A Food Lover’s Guide to Maio Island: Taste the Flavors of Paradise Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

1. Cachupa: Cape Verde’s Signature Dish

Cachupa is the heart of Cape Verdean cuisine, a slow-cooked stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat or fish. It’s often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast the next day, known as "cachupa refogada." Local restaurants in Vila do Maio serve this delicious dish, giving visitors an authentic taste of the island.

2. Fresh Seafood: The Star of Maio’s Cuisine

Seafood lovers will be in paradise with Maio’s daily catch. Grilled tuna, lobster, and octopus are common highlights, often served with rice, potatoes, or salad. Head to beachfront restaurants in Morro or Porto Inglês for the freshest seafood, perfectly seasoned with local herbs and spices.

3. Grogue and Ponche: The Island’s Traditional Drinks

No meal is complete without trying grogue, Cape Verde’s traditional sugarcane rum. For a smoother taste, ponche—a mix of grogue, honey, and spices—is a must-try. Many small bars and restaurants offer these local drinks, often served with live music, making for a perfect island evening.

4. Street Food and Local Markets: Where to Eat Like a Local

For an authentic experience, visit Maio’s local markets and small food stalls. Try pastel com diablo, a deep-fried pastry filled with spicy tuna, or grilled corn sold by street vendors. The bustling market in Vila do Maio is the best spot to taste local snacks and interact with friendly vendors.

5. Sweet Treats: Maio’s Must-Try Desserts

End your meal with bolo de cuscuz, a sweet corn and coconut cake, or doce de papaya, a caramelized papaya jam. These traditional desserts can be found in family-run cafés or offered as a homemade treat by local hosts. Paired with Cape Verdean coffee, they provide a perfect island indulgence.