A Taste of the Islands

São Tomé’s cuisine is a flavorful fusion of African, Portuguese, and tropical influences that reflect the island's rich history and abundant natural resources. The food here is vibrant, hearty, and fresh, using ingredients like locally caught seafood, coconut, bananas, and, of course, the world-renowned cocoa.

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The History of São Tomé's Cuisine

The roots of São Tomé’s cuisine can be traced back to both its colonial past and African heritage. Portuguese settlers introduced a variety of European cooking techniques and ingredients, such as olive oil, garlic, and corn. These were combined with native ingredients, like breadfruit, palm oil, and various spices, to create a unique and diverse food culture.

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Over the years, the island’s dishes have also been influenced by the slaves brought over from the African mainland, who introduced ingredients like yams, cassava, and plantains. The result is a delicious culinary blend that feels both familiar and exotic, making each meal a reflection of the island’s multicultural history.

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Restaurants to Try

São Tomé offers a wide variety of dining experiences, from local joints to fine dining. Some standout places include:

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• Roça São João dos Angolares – Set in an old plantation, this restaurant offers gourmet takes on traditional São Tomé flavors, blending European techniques with local ingredients.

• Papa Figo – Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this is a perfect spot to enjoy grilled fish and seafood straight from the ocean.

• Filomar – Located by the water, this restaurant serves up fresh catches of the day, including crab, shrimp, and octopus.

• Chez Tete – If you want to try something authentically local, this place specializes in simple, homestyle São Toméan food like stewed meats, rice, and plantains.

Our most famous dishes

São Tomé's culinary identity shines through in its beloved traditional dishes. Here are a few to look out for:

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• Calulu – A hearty fish or meat stew with palm oil, tomatoes, okra, and local greens. It's typically served with rice, plantains, or cassava.

• Blabla – A classic comfort dish made with mashed bananas and beans, often accompanied by grilled fish or meat.

• Moqueca de Peixe – A São Toméan take on the popular Brazilian dish, made with fish, coconut milk, and tomatoes.

• Grilled Flying Fish – A popular street food served with fried plantains or breadfruit.

• Street Food Adventures

• To really get a taste of São Tomé, you’ve got to hit the streets. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, street food here is bursting with flavor. Some of the top picks include:

• Grilled Corn – A simple yet satisfying snack, found at various stalls around the island.

• Acarajé – A deep-fried ball of black-eyed peas, typically served with spicy sauce and shrimp, this dish traces its roots to African cuisine.

• Coconut Cakes – A sweet treat made with coconut and sugar, perfect for an afternoon snack.

• Fried Plantains – Served everywhere, from street vendors to beachside shacks, these crispy plantains are an island favorite. They are a perfect snack alongside a cold glass of National beer as you sit on the terrace of the BBC club watching the sun go down over the bay. 

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The Sweet Side of São Tomé: Chocolate

No food tour of São Tomé is complete without diving into its chocolate. The island is one of the world’s leading producers of premium cocoa. Many restaurants, cafés, and shops offer chocolate desserts, handmade truffles, and even savory dishes with a cocoa twist. Be sure to try São Tomé’s Chocolate Mousse or sample the chocolates from Claudio Corallo, the island’s most famous chocolatier.