Madeira, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, also offers a tempting array of culinary delights, prominently featuring fresh seafood. Among its most celebrated dishes is the Tuna Steak, locally known as "Bifes de Atum." This dish not only captures the essence of Madeiran cuisine but also highlights the island's abundant marine resources.
As Madeira is a prime fishing destination, its cuisine naturally emphasizes seafood dishes, with tuna steak being a highlight. Rich in flavor and healthy omega-3 fats, tuna steak appeals to both locals and visitors seeking a taste of the island's maritime bounty. Whether enjoyed at a seaside restaurant or prepared at home, Tuna Steak Madeira Style promises a culinary journey enriched with Madeira's authentic flavors and traditions.
Tuna Steak Madeira Style
Tuna steak in Madeira is prepared with a distinctive marinade of local herbs and spices, usually served with boiled potatoes and salad. Unlike the trendy seared-on-the-outside/raw-on-the-inside style, Madeiran tuna steak is typically marinated for 24 hours before cooking, either on a charcoal grill, gas grill, or using a stovetop or George Foreman-type grill.
Places to Enjoy Tuna Steak in Madeira
You can find tuna steak in almost any bar or restaurant in Madeira. Here are some suggestions for your gastronomic journey:
Funchal
In Madeira’s capital city of Funchal, culinary diversity meets traditional Madeiran flavors. Begin your gastronomic journey at Barreirinha Bar and Café, nestled at the city’s eastern end, offering a laid-back atmosphere and stunning sea views. For a historical dining experience, visit Restaurante Do Forte within the 17th-century Forte de Sao Tigao, now a museum of contemporary art, known for its reasonably priced modern Madeiran cuisine. Explore the colorful Zona Velha district, home to Restaurante o Portao, renowned for its fresh catch of the day dishes like bana and black scabbard fish, complemented by milho frito. Taberna Ruel on Rua de Santa Maria offers a blend of Madeiran and European cuisine, with an extensive Portuguese wine selection in a charming setting.
Madeira – the East
Eastern Madeira unfolds with breathtaking landscapes and inviting eateries along its coastal towns. Restaurant A Gosta in Funchal’s eastern commuter belt stands out for its world-inspired dishes like tempura de caranguejo and sauteed octopus. Further east, Restaurant Laranjinha Bistro & Grill in Gaulo impresses with modern continental offerings such as poached red snapper and duck confit, accompanied by a superb selection of mainland Portuguese wines. For a rustic, authentic experience, Espetada (Pedro) in Levadas specializes in steak espetada cooked over a wood fire, epitomizing local simplicity and flavor.
Madeira – the South
Madeira’s sunny south coast, particularly in the harbor town of Câmara de Lobos, offers a chance to dine like a local. Casa do Farol, near the old harbor front, features a seasonal menu that highlights fresh local fish, including tuna steak. The Taberna Dos Lobos, just across the street, serves substantial meals with a focus on locally-caught seafood. For a more modern twist on Madeiran dishes, Deserta Pequena offers pasta and risotto options alongside traditional fare. The Pier One Grill Terrace, part of the Pestana Churchill Bay hotel, provides an elevated dining experience with stunning harbor views.
Madeira – the North
On Madeira’s wilder north coast, the towns, villages, and restaurants are fewer and farther apart, but the adventurous traveler is rewarded with some of the best traditional Madeiran cuisine. In Porto Moniz, Restaurante Orca is a prime example, offering bife de atum (tuna steak) alongside other local favorites like gambas a diablo (spicy prawns) and prego no bolo do caco (steak sandwich). Another option in Porto Moniz is the sea view restaurant at Hotel Aqua Natura, which combines European and Madeiran dishes. Polo Norte, known for its home-style cooking and excellent wine selection, is also a must-visit for a hearty meal in a friendly setting.
Price
The price of tuna steak in Madeira varies depending on the type of restaurant and its location. In casual dining spots, you can expect to pay between €10 to €18, while mid-range restaurants typically charge around €18 to €25. For a high-end dining experience, the price ranges from €25 to €35. These prices are approximate and can fluctuate based on the market price of tuna and the restaurant's pricing policies. For the most accurate pricing, it's best to check the menu of the specific restaurant you plan to visit.
Fresh Tuna
To replicate this culinary delight at home, fresh tuna can be purchased during the summer months when the tuna fishing season is in full swing. Local markets like the beautifully decorated Farmers' Market (Mercado dos Lavradores) in Funchal offer a vibrant selection of fresh seafood, including tuna, ensuring top-notch quality for your homemade Tuna Steak Madeira Style.
Tuna Fishing in Madeira
Madeira's waters are renowned for exceptional tuna fishing opportunities. The island offers diverse experiences, from shared trips where enthusiasts bond over the thrill of the catch to private charters tailored for seasoned anglers seeking a personalized adventure. The Tuna fishing season, spanning much of the year with peak seasons for Atlantic Bluefin Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Albacore Tuna, and Big Eye Tuna, offers optimal chances for remarkable catches. Chartering boats like the "Dream Catcher," equipped with state-of-the-art gear and expert guides, ensures a memorable and rewarding expedition. Prices for Tuna fishing charters vary: Half-Day Charters cost approximately €700, Full-Day Charters around € 1200, and Multi-Day Charters start from €1100 per day, inclusive of licenses, refreshments, bait, tackle, and cleaning services, often shared among participants for group enjoyment.
