Top bars and Restuarants

 

The question we get a lot from guests are where are the good and trusted local places to eat/drink in Vilanculos? Although you have chef Sarmento and Antonia that are excellent cooks, sometimes it is nice to book at a spots on the mainland or perhaps on the islands to support the locals. 

1. Azura on Benguerra Island 

The hotel has a rustic yet idyllic outdoor beach side restaurant called Peri-Peri. The stunning spot has a swimming pool on the waters edge and sun loungers and beds covered by thatch umbrellas. What we love about this spot is the family style vibe of sitting around a long table with your own personal grills where you can cook your own fresh seafood to your liking. The restaurants serves the best Mozambican cuisines on the island, paired with a variety of fine wines or mixology menu. Bookings must be made in advance before arrival at Perlo Do Mar.


2. Anantara Bazaruto Island 

There are two restaurants that can be booked, Golfinho which offers flavors of the world and Tartaruga which offers Oceanfront dining and showcases flavors of Portuguese food and flame-grilled meats. Tartaruga happens on the deck on the beach with a first-row seat to the sunset. It is open for lunches  between 12pm to 4pm upon reservation. The Golfinho Restaurant specializes in the Mozambican, Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisines with a beautiful view into the tropical island forests. 


3. Casabah Beach Bar is a flip-flop and shorts hangout. The ambience is very fun and casual where you can actually plug in your own music to the sound system. Enjoy fresh seafood on the tranquil beach setting where the tide sits at your feet in the sand and the sound of the waves lapping a few meters away. The bar stays open till very late and welcomes lots of locals and ex-pats who are always in for a good time. We suggest trying the local beers and Vinho Verde (Portuguese young wine). This is a walk in bar and restaurant.

4. Frutos Do Mar 

Is a beautiful wooden crafted bar that has an unobstructed view of the bay and the floating dhows. It is a very unique spot that caters to a lot of people and usually has the best New Years parties. The local owners are so delightful and treat their visitors like family. This is definitely one of those one for the books places. This is another walk in bar and restaurant.


5. Bahia Mar Hotel

The perfect spot for family affairs is the restaurant at Bahia Mar that has an extensive and delicious menu of family favorites. The setting is surrounded with breathtaking lawns that run into stunning flat sea horizons. Please book before hand with the hotel or with Sarmento (Our Villa Manager) at the Perlo Do Mar villa in advance.


6. Dona Ana Hotel

Also know as the pink palace that is positioned on the narrow horn of the Vilanculos Harbour. The retro hotel is styled with a fifties colour scheme and elegant patterns and furniture. There are three bars to choose from depending on the wind and weather- The Ocio, Caju Pool bar and Seta bar. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail and snacks in a chic atmosphere. This is a walk in restaurant and bar.

7.  Hotel Aguia Negra 

The restaurant is called Giney's and fuses international with Mozambican cuisines there is a main focus on fresh seafood. Some of the standout meals are the prawn curry, prawn rissoles, seafood platter and the grilled calamari. There are also great vegetarians and good selection of wines to complement the dishes. This requires booking beforehand.

8. Vilanculos Beach Lodge 

This restaurant won the Travelers choice award for restaurant's in Vilanculos in 2020. What we love about this place is that every Sunday they have a live local band play which makes for the best dinner entertainment. Everyday of the week their menus change and they offer plenty of dishes for you and your family to share in. Your view during the day and night is spectacular. This restaurant and bar must be booked in advance or with Sarmento (Our villa manager) before date to dine.


9. Casa Mika Café

Is a stylish quaint cafe offering hearty gourmet meals. The owners hospitality is what makes it such a special experience. With a garden setting, you will feel relaxed within an instant. 

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