Porto Santo reports mixed summer results and new restaurant launch

The 2026 summer season in Porto Santo yielded mixed results for local business owners. While tourism-related businesses such as bars and ice cream shops reported a positive season bolstered by favorable weather, some restaurant owners experienced lower demand than expected. For instance, the restaurant O Rochedo noted a quiet July and a slow start to August, despite an increase in overall visitor numbers. Conversely, Bar do Henrique and Lambecas reported strong movement and high customer volume throughout the summer.

In an effort to bolster the island's culinary reputation, the new Origo 34 restaurant opened at the Legacy Ithos Boutique Hotel on September 22. Led by Michelin-starred chef Diogo Rocha and Manuel Santos, the establishment aims to highlight local ingredients through contemporary techniques. The restaurant offers a flexible dining experience designed to showcase Porto Santo's flavors without the rigid constraints of traditional fine dining.