Adega do Mestre André — Restaurant in Ponta Delgada

For a place totally packed all the time, I don’t understand the hype.

We waited 30 minutes for our table to be ready for a 9pm reservation. I understand having to wait for tables to clear out, but if you have an environment of encouraging people to relax and stay, amazing—but then don’t take reservations. A 30 minute wait is as if I didn’t have a reservation. There was no communication as to how long things would be and they seemed like they didn’t remember me each time I walked in to check on the table.

By the time we sat down, it took a while to order. We got some simple Couvert starters. This is the type of place to charge you for the butter on your bread—but then bring that butter out in little plastic packets. The tomato soup had…boiled eggs in it? Not bad, just not one of those culinary surprises you’re excited by.

For my main, I got the steak with cheese. Ordered it medium rare as I always do. However, the filet was really tough and bloody, which mixed with the cream sauce to make some meaty, goopy soup that was wholly unappetizing.

The waiter noticed I wasn’t eating it and offered to redo it—but at that point, I felt wasteful and full. I didn’t want a brand new steak. But he brought me one anyways. A nice gesture I suppose, but I’d rather be listened to.

All in all a bit of a miss for something with such high reviews. If you do go, go for a 7pm reservation instead of the 9pm option. And get the...

An unforgettable dinner! We had the grilled baby squid (lulinhas grelhadas) and the beef liver with fried egg (iscas de fígado de vaca com ovo estrelado). both absolutely incredible. The squid was, hands down, the best I’ve ever had, and the liver dish was rich, flavorful, and made even better by the 2 perfectly fried eggs.

We also had the red sangria made with vinho de cheiro, which paired beautifully with the meal.

But what truly made this experience special was the service. We were looked after by João, and he’s the reason this wasn’t just a good dinner...but a memorable one. He turned a great meal into a moment we’ll want to repeat and recommend. Thank you, João, for making our evening even better.

Highly, highly...

5 Stars – Exceptional Experience!

Adega do Mestre André is an absolute gem. The food was nothing short of excellent – every dish was perfectly prepared and bursting with authentic Portuguese flavor. The service was truly 5-star; attentive, professional, and warm from start to finish. The owners should be incredibly proud of their staff, especially John and Andre.

The atmosphere is just as memorable – a beautiful setting with true Portuguese architecture that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a piece of Portugal’s history. A perfect blend of tradition and hospitality.

Highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for an unforgettable...