Dolphin Restaurant

Dolphin Restaurant is one of the most solid gastronomic references on Graciosa, located next to the fishing port of Santa Cruz da Graciosa, with a proposal centred on fresh fish and seafood caught daily in the waters surrounding the island. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, with simple decoration reflecting the honest and direct character of Azorean cuisine: here, the quality of the raw material speaks louder than any culinary artifice.

The menu varies depending on the day's catch, but it is usual to find tuna in different preparations — grilled, in onion sauce or in steaks with sweet potato —, grilled limpets with butter and garlic, fish stew, grouper and baked sea bream. Graciosa fish broth is a cult dish among attentive visitors. Prices are quite accessible by Azorean standards: a main fish dish costs between 10 and 16 €, including sides. The wine list is short but includes some Azores wine references, notably from Pico, and some mainland options. The Dolphin is frequented by both local residents and visitors, which is always a good sign of gastronomic authenticity.

The restaurant is located just a few minutes walk from the main points of interest in Santa Cruz da Graciosa, making it a natural stop for lunch after exploring the village. Early booking is recommended during July and August, when traffic is higher. Dinner is served in a quieter atmosphere with the particularity of being able to contemplate the port lights at dusk. An excellent option for discovering local gastronomy in a genuine and surprise-free way.