Café Criolo

Reviews

Café Criolo is a standout restaurant in Santa Maria, Sal, consistently praised for its authentic Cape Verdean cuisine and exceptionally generous portions. The seafood rice is a major highlight, with many reviewers noting it is large enough to feed two or even three people. Freshness is a recurring theme, with high marks given to the grilled octopus, lobster, and the daily fish catches. While the food and fair prices are highly regarded, the restaurant's popularity means that long queues are common, and some guests suggest arriving well before opening to secure a seat. The service is generally described as friendly and welcoming, though it can become slow during peak hours when the venue is at full capacity. A specific local recommendation from many diners is the goat cheese with papaya jam, which is considered a must-try dessert.