Mercado Velho — restaurant in Madeira
Machico's best-known restaurant, open since 1972 in the town's old market building. Portuguese and international cooking served in a walled garden with a fountain and a large shaded esplanade, a minute from the beach.
About Mercado Velho
Mercado Velho is a mid-range portuguese, international and traditional restaurant in Machico
If you only order one thing, make it the garden dining in machico's old market house — it's what the kitchen is known for and what regulars come back for.
What to know before you go
- Book ahead — this restaurant fills nightly in season, particularly Thursday to Saturday.
- Cards accepted. Tipping ~5–10% on the total is appreciated but not expected.
- Outdoor seating is available — request when booking, as it goes first.
- Lunch service is typically 12:30–15:00 and dinner from around 19:00; many Madeiran restaurants close between services.
- Address: Rua General António Teixeira de Aguiar 2, 9200-094 Machico.
Best time to visit
Year-round. Dinner reservations are tightest from late April to October and over Christmas / New Year; lunch is easier almost any day.
Location
Machico, Madeira · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps
32.71890, -16.76690
Visitor reviews
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Frequently asked
Where is Mercado Velho in Machico?+
In the centre of Machico, in the town's converted old market building on Rua General António Teixeira de Aguiar, a minute's walk from the yellow-sand beach.
How long has Mercado Velho been open?+
Since 1972, making it one of the longest-running restaurants in Machico.
Does Mercado Velho have outdoor seating?+
Yes — a garden with a fountain and a large shaded esplanade, which is where most people eat in summer.
What is Mercado Velho known for?+
Mercado Velho is known for its garden dining in machico's old market house, plus a wider portuguese, international and traditional menu.
Do I need to book a table at Mercado Velho?+
Yes — reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner Thursday to Saturday and through the summer months.
How expensive is Mercado Velho?+
Mercado Velho is rated €€ — mid-range. Expect a typical dinner main to reflect that band, with Madeira wines and bottled water added on top.
Is Mercado Velho vegetarian-friendly?+
Yes — Mercado Velho reliably offers vegetarian options on its menu, which is not always the case in traditional Madeiran restaurants.
Plan around Mercado Velho
The nearest town, viewpoint and walk — the three things most visitors pair with Mercado Velho in a day.
Nearby on Madeira
Other places within easy reach of Mercado Velho.
Plan the rest of your trip
The four guides most first-time visitors reach for.