Mare Nostrum - Restaurante, Bar & Esplanada

We had a great time at Mare Nostrum. The restaurant is by the water and overlooks a pool. The food and ambiance were great. We had the limpets, codfish, and mushroom risotto. Our host Emma had a great smile on and was very friendly, attentive, and helpful. Would love to return for another meal!

In a week long trip to Sao Miguel, this was by far our best meal. The food was beautifully served and tasted even better. There was so much flavor to even the simplest dishes, and none of them disappointed. To make the experience even better, the atmosphere is really nice and every seat in the restaurant has a great view of the ocean. The service was amazing, leaving you with a good feeling after the meal. The pricing was also incredibly fair - it seems like they could charge twice as much due to the great view and atmosphere. We were also served complimentary local pineapple liqueur after our meal, which was a treat. Definitely try this if you’re in the area (which you probably will at some point on an island of 293 square miles).

Hand on fire, the best here are the views. Amazing sunset in a quiet place and the food does not steal from you this moment. We ordered "boliñas de arroz", "lapas grelladas", "octopus salad" and "Bacallau". I must say the boliñas were the best, filled with a kind of pulled pork meat. Delicious. The rest was also tasty but not amazing, and the bacallau was honestly dry. The service was slow but It looked like the were a bit overwhelmed. Neverheless recommend if you love beach and views.

We had an absolutely wonderful dining experience at Mare Nostrum! From the moment we arrived, the service was warm, welcoming, and incredibly thoughtful. The food was fantastic. The soup was rich and comforting, and the beef cubes were perfectly seasoned with just the right kick—especially delicious with the pickles that added a refreshing contrast. Our drinks were also spot on—fresh and well-balanced. We also ordered one fish to share, and the chef went above and beyond by plating it beautifully on two separate dishes so we could both enjoy the full experience—such a kind and professional touch. The staff not only made us feel at home but also shared some local stories and insights about the town and the island’s festival traditions, which made our visit even more memorable. Highly recommend this gem—delicious food, impeccable service, and a great atmosphere

Service is good but could be a little more attentive. Fried squid is excellent. Duck risotto and the octopus all excellent. Nice presentation! White sangria was fresh made and delicious. Excellent view of the ocean.

Came here on a Tuesday night, and it was a very relaxed atmosphere with great food. Our host Emma was really pleasant and helpful with our experience. The food, which included risotto, limpets, cod, and green tea ice cream was really delicious and balanced. I would visit here again while in São Miguel.

Amazing sangria and food was out of this world. The octopus was the best we’ve had. Tuna was also fantastic.