Where to eat in Sal island

Sal in Cape Verde offers a unique and delicious cuisine that is a blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. The desert climate of the island and its location in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean have also played a role in shaping its culinary traditions.

One of the most popular and traditional dishes on the island of Sal is “Cachupa,” a stew made with corn, beans, and meat or fish. It is considered the national dish of Cape Verde and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions. Another popular dish is “Caldeirada,” a fish stew made with a variety of fish and seafood, vegetables, and spices.

Seafood is a cornerstone of Sal’s cuisine, with a variety of fish and shellfish freshly caught from the Atlantic Ocean. Some popular seafood dishes include grilled “Espada” (black scabbard fish) or in a “mojo” sauce (a sauce made with chili peppers, garlic, and olive oil), “lagosta” (lobster), and “camarão” (shrimp) prepared in various ways.

Fish and seafood are generally grilled or cooked in a tomato and onion sauce, known as “Cebola” or “Tomate” sauce. Another local specialty is “Catchupa de Peixe,” a variation of “catchupa” made with fish instead of meat and vegetables. It is usually served with “funge,” a type of cornmeal porridge and is one of the most traditional dishes in Cape Verde.

Due to its desert climate, agriculture is limited in Sal, but visitors can still find a variety of local fruits and vegetables in the island’s markets and restaurants. Some of the most commonly found fruits on the island include bananas, papayas, and mangoes, while vegetables include tomatoes, peppers, and onions.

In addition to traditional Cape Verdean dishes, visitors can also find international cuisine on the island, with a variety of restaurants offering Italian, Chinese, and Indian food.