Praça Velha — restaurant in Madeira
Restaurante Praça Velha
Classic Portuguese restaurant on the old square in the centre of Porto da Cruz, a short walk from the seafront. Known for generous plates of octopus, monkfish, espetada and home-style Madeiran cooking, with views towards the sea and Penha de Águia.
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About Praça Velha
Praça Velha is a mid-range portuguese, traditional and seafood restaurant in Porto da Cruz
If you only order one thing, make it the octopus and monkfish on the village square — it's what the kitchen is known for and what regulars come back for.
What to know before you go
- Walk-ins usually work outside the 20:00–21:30 peak; arrive before 19:30 or after 21:30 for the best table.
- 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: Praça Velha, 9225-050 Porto da Cruz.
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
Porto da Cruz, Madeira · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps
32.77180, -16.83030
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Frequently asked
Where is Praça Velha restaurant?+
On the old square (Praça Velha) in the centre of Porto da Cruz, on Madeira's north-east coast, a short walk from the seafront.
What should I order at Praça Velha?+
The octopus and monkfish dishes are local favourites, alongside classic espetada and home-style Madeiran plates.
What is Praça Velha known for?+
Praça Velha is known for its octopus and monkfish on the village square, plus a wider portuguese, traditional and seafood menu.
Do I need to book a table at Praça Velha?+
Reservations are not strictly required, but they are sensible at peak dinner hours (20:00–21:30) and on weekends.
How expensive is Praça Velha?+
Praça Velha is rated €€ — mid-range. Expect a typical dinner main to reflect that band, with Madeira wines and bottled water added on top.
Plan around Praça Velha
The nearest town, viewpoint and walk — the three things most visitors pair with Praça Velha in a day.
Nearby on Madeira
Other places within easy reach of Praça Velha.
Where Praça Velha fits
The town guide it belongs to, and the lists it earns a place on.
Plan the rest of your trip
The four guides most first-time visitors reach for.