Quinta do martelo’s alcatra is the star of the show, but you can also try the other appetizers if you have a big appetite. Crispy torresmos, juicy morcela, boiled corn, and all types of cheese, including famously sharp ones from the island of São Jorge, represent the Azore’s traditionally modest kitchen.
Make a reservation for lunch at Caneta In Biscoitos they serve this famous stew along with many other steak preparations. Terceira’s meat-lovers’ paradise is true, even if you are on an island. There are also garlicky lapas on the menu. The Azores are known for this unusual shellfish. You can also enjoy homemade Azorean food at the classic restaurant, Tasca das Tias In the heart of Angra. The kitchen in this cavernous dining room churns out grilled tuna, a fish that is abundant in these waters, a plate of cheese from the island, and plump, garlic-infused prawns.
Check out these sweet treats O Forno, a bakery not far from Tasca das Tias, for its Queijada da Dona Amélia, the island’s iconic pastry named after Queen Amélia, who visited Terceira in 1901. Cinnamon, a spice that came from Asia, is added to the cornmeal cake. If you’re looking for ice-cream, let yourself be overwhelmed by the choices. Quinta da AcoresA rotating selection of flavours, made mainly from local produce. The ice-cream flavors are also based on traditional confections like Queijada da Graciosa a cheesecake made in the nearby island Graciosa.
Terceira also has wineries and vineyards, although Pico is the largest wine producer in the Azores. One of the most popular is Materramenta, a relatively new outfit that bottles classic Azorean Wines. Touring their vineyard, you’ll see a unique style of planting where lava-rock roofs are constructed over and around the grape plants in order to protect them against the elements. Materramenta also produces wines from other islands. You can taste them in the Biscoitos Tasting Room.
Because every Azorean Island is a dairy-producing island, it’s a must to try the local cheese. Queijo Vaquinha If you go with a tour guide, you’ll get a small tray containing about 12 cubes each of four types of cheese. Yes, it’s free.
Terceira: Where to stay
Opened by 2023 Hotel TeatroThe interior decor is heavily inspired by regency style, with a few modern touches, like double-glazed glass windows. This will come in very handy during festival season. Although the cozy bar and lobby area may make it seem like a cramped place, there is plenty to offer: a small spa and gym (with saunas and hot tubs), a dedicated breakfast Room, a Library, and a Beautiful Garden with a pool. Explore the area and you may even spot one of those traditional triangle-shaped chimneys.
