Alabote — Restaurant in Ribeira Grande

This place is very busy, so a reservation is a must. When we arrived (on time, with a reservation), we were told to wait until the exact reservation time—not a problem, but the owner or manager (not sure which) came across as unfriendly and, frankly, disengaged. Once we returned at our designated time, we were seated—but it took quite a while before anyone came to our table. It seemed the servers were overwhelmed, though they were clearly working very hard. When we were finally greeted, the staff was genuinely warm and friendly. Special shoutout to the bartender, who even stepped in to help serve tables—great attitude and energy. Meanwhile, the owner/manager stood by the doorway the entire evening, simply observing. It was strange to see him never assisting with anything—no clearing tables, no helping staff, no interacting with guests—especially while the team was clearly hustling. As for the food: a bit hit-or-miss. The braised tuna and burger were excellent. However, the Caesar salad, tuna steak, mussels, and limpets didn’t live up to expectations—especially when compared to the consistently fantastic meals we’ve had at other restaurants during our stay on the island. The big draw here is definitely the view—it's on a patio right by the ocean and may be the only restaurant in the area with that kind of waterfront setting. For that alone, it might be worth a visit. Just don’t go in expecting top-tier food...

The worst the experience that we have ever had. First let me start by saying that our waitress Celina was amazing. We ordered some appetizers which involved absolutely cold blood pudding sausage and chourico in the cheeseboard. Then we ordered our entrées. We waited about an hour for them and when they arrived my son's steak was cold as ice (no I am not exaggerating), my husband's sautéed squid was hard and cold. My playe was hot however my broccoli and stuffing which was served on the side was completely cold. We called the waitress to let them know about the food being cold. She took it and came back within 2 minutes. When we asked she told us that the food was warmed in the microwave needless to say that my son's steak was now medium well and my stuffing with broccoli was still cold. We asked to speak to the manager. The owner came to the table. I explained to him and his response which blew my mind was " and what do you pretend for us to do?" Which I answered "that my son's food at least be hot because I am paying for hot food and not cold".... he was extremely rude.... we couldn't eat the food, paid and left with no apologies pr anything. We paid for the entire bill and went to McDonald's so my son could eat. I have attached the pictures. Don't let the view fool you.... do not recommend at all.......

I was staying three doors down from this restaurant & it came recommended by my Airbnb hostess. I went there for dinner & watch the sunset - the location is amazing. The food was nothing remarkable BUT THE SERVICE. I don’t know what was up with my particular waiter, but all the tables he was in charge of were waiting to order, waiting for for service, waiting on checks….I managed to order food, which came quickly & by a food runner. After I finished, I must have sat 40 min without a peep & watched while all the tables around me were getting antsy and frustrated. At first, I chalked it up to “island time” or a cultural thing. But the tables surrounding me were seated with Portuguese, Spanish, and Americans. They were all getting annoyed. Eventually, I flagged down my runner and asked him for the check. He realized that the tables were being neglected & tried to service his tables…but it was a bit too late for most of us. There are so many restaurants to choose from on this island - so yourself a favor,...