The black volcanic rock that lines the shores of this stunning island is everywhere, as are views of currais that extend to the ocean, showcasing the historical vineyards of Pico. These grapes will be transformed into the unique wine that has put Pico on the map, particularly crisp whites made from native arinto, verdelho, and terrantez grapes.

But the mighty volcano is becoming known for more than just its wines and spectacular nature: it’s increasingly growing into a gastronomic hotspot. Wandering through the quaint town of Madalena, you’ll likely find a crowd waiting to get into O Cinco. The cozy eatery is known for its quirky vintage decor and humorous quotes lining the walls, but the real draw is the food, of course.

A must is the tuna steak served with sweet potatoes —local, simple, but delicious. One of their signature dishes is the Bife à Cinco – lean beef loin sauteed with plenty of garlic, white wine, and pimenta da terra, a traditional Azorean spice made with red peppers and salt. This inviting meal is served with hand-cut fries, perfect for soaking up that glorious garlic/wine sauce. During MiratecArts’ many events, such as the Cordas World Music Festival or the Montanha Pico Festival, you’ll bump elbows with international artists here.

Down the road towards the ferry terminal, keep your eye out for Porta 6, a new introduction to the Madalena food scene from O Cinco. With the same concept of an intimate atmosphere, Porta 6 focuses on wine and tapas. You can happily enjoy a full meal here, from tender beef carpaccio to tuna tataki and ceviche fresh from the sea, paired with a wide variety of wines.

For a quick bite in the morning or a filling lunch, Pastella, in the heart of Madalena, is a popular pick. There is always a soup of the day, a must in the Azorean diet, salads, burgers, pizza, and plenty of mouth-watering pastries.

Bar da Gare in the Madalena ferry terminal is often buzzing with people, either waiting for the boat to take them to Faial across the channel or having a cold beer outside on the ample terrace, eyeing the whale-watching Zodiacs whizzing by. The pleasant women behind the counter are always free to make you a toasted sandwich with famous Pico cheese on the fly, or to serve a scoop of Quinta dos Açores ice cream.

Towards the Barca area, a visit to Pico Island is not complete without a stop at Cella Bar. Perhaps the most well-known bar on the island, Cella Bar is known for its eye-catching wooden architecture and is also a full-service restaurant with a broad menu. Opt for a few sides of sauteed vegetables, gooey garlic bread layered with cheese, or a light goji berry salad topped with shaved parmesan. Bigger plates won’t disappoint, particularly the tender grilled octopus with roasted potatoes. During the summer months, head downstairs after your meal for an Azorean gin cocktail, and you may be lucky enough to encounter an Azores Fringe Festival music session or poetry reading, with the Atlantic as the backdrop.

If you find yourself in Santo Amaro, on the north side of the island, you’ll be sure to hear about Magma. The restaurant, which served as one of the settings of the award-winning film First Date, serves incredible dishes with a view to match. Vegetarians will be pleased with the varied menu, including favas da festa, a typical Azorean festival dish of fava beans stewed in tomatoes and onions. Both fish and meat lovers will be happy here, too, and the warm ambiance will draw you to linger after your meal with a fine wine.

Tasca, in lovely Prainha de Baixo, is situated in a rustic house, with bright yellow trim and potted succulents lining the stairway into the restaurant. It’s a great spot to dine on small plates like every Picarota’s favorite: local sausage, black pudding, and fried taro, grown in fields around the island.

In Pico’s oldest village, Lajes, while walking through the charming streets, your nose will lead you to Pastelaria Aromas e Sabores. The beloved bakery café is often full of patrons indulging in the delectable pastries and cakes made daily. They also offer hearty lunch choices, including toasted sandwiches large enough to feed two. Don’t forget to ask what the fresh fruit juice of the day is (the lemonade with hortelã, a local wild mint, is wonderful) and take a moment to savor a Queijada de Néveda. This tart, dusted with powdered sugar, has a pleasing minty taste, a sweet tribute to the popular children’s book character Néveda.

Finally, visit the Picowines Cooperative, the largest and oldest wine producer in the Azores, and say cheers to the beautiful island of Pico with the distinguished Frei Gigante or an easy-sipping Terras de Lava Syrah.