O Sado - Funchal

Returned to this friendly little bar after first visiting last September. The proprietor Antonio is welcoming, chatty and speaks excellent English. He makes up the poncha to order and offers a taste to check whether more honey or fruit juice (freshly squeezed in front of you) is needed. The result is a drink which suits your taste and a great bargain at only 2 Euro. As the bar is a little hidden and often quiet, I thought it inconsiderate to ask Antonio to go through the laborious process of making poncha for one, so ensured there were three of us drinking to make it worth his while. I think he appreciated that. In our opinion, the next best poncha is to be found at Rei da Poncha (King of Poncha) which specialises in this local drink and charges 2.5 Euro. It is situated in Rampa do Cidrao in a lane off the main road opposite the Electricity Museum and has a decent range of food.

Antonio and his team make everyone feel welcome, whether for just a drink or coffee or for a snack. Very good value. Situated on a small street just past the town gardens, on the way to the English Church. Don't miss it!

This little bar a few steps from the municipal garden has recently seen improvements and renovation under new management following the retirement of the previous owner. I visited specifically to sample the poncha (2 Euro) made in the traditional way with freshly squuezed juice, honey and sugar cane spirit while you wait, ie, not the inferior ready mixed product sold in most bars and in all the supermarkets. A delicious drink with a serious kick! The English speaking owner and staff could not have been more friendly and informative and took great interest in our efforts to track down our family history in Funchal from 100 years ago and the houses in which they lived. The bar has a wide selection of Madeiran and international spirits, liqueurs and wines as well as beers and soft drinks. Sandwiches and snacks are available on week days. The only disapppointment is that the bar does not have exterior tables as the street is very narrow and not pedestrianised, but that should not detract from the charm and friendliness of the place.

You only have a vegan meal, but it's good as a snack.

Nice little café. The menu offers vegan options.