Delicious Flavors of São Nicolau: A Food Lover’s Guide Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

1. Cachupa: The Heart of Cape Verdean Cuisine

Cachupa is the most iconic dish in São Nicolau, a slow-cooked stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and either fish or meat. It’s a true comfort food, often enjoyed in a hearty breakfast version called “Cachupa Refogada.” This dish represents the island’s culinary traditions and is a must-try for visitors.

2. Fresh Seafood Straight from the Atlantic

Being an island, São Nicolau offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled fish, octopus stew, and seafood rice are local specialties. Many restaurants serve fish caught the same day, providing a true taste of the Atlantic. Enjoying a seafood meal by the ocean enhances the experience even more.

3. Taste the Unique Goat Cheese of São Nicolau

São Nicolau is known for its locally made goat cheese, often served with homemade jams or honey. The cheese has a rich, creamy texture and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Pair it with fresh bread and a glass of Cape Verdean wine for an authentic island treat.

4. Indulge in Traditional Corn-Based Dishes

Corn is a staple ingredient in Cape Verdean cuisine, and São Nicolau offers delicious corn-based dishes. “Modje” is a flavorful corn and vegetable stew, while “Cuscus” is a steamed corn cake often enjoyed for breakfast with sugar and butter. These dishes highlight the island’s rich agricultural heritage.

5. Sip on Local Grogue and Pontche

No food journey in São Nicolau is complete without trying grogue, a traditional sugarcane spirit. Locals also enjoy “pontche,” a sweeter variation mixed with honey and lime. These drinks are a key part of the island’s social culture, best enjoyed at a local bar with Cape Verdean music playing. No food journey in São Nicolau is complete without trying grogue, a traditional sugarcane spirit. Locals also enjoy “pontche,” a sweeter variation mixed with honey and lime. These drinks are a k