A family-run steakhouse in Altares on Terceira's northwest coast, raising its own grass-fed beef since 1998. Known for Aberdeen Angus steak, alcatra beef stew, bone marrow with sweet bread and grilled limpets. Mains run EUR 25+ (approx USD 27+).
A Caneta is a family-run steakhouse in Altares, on Terceira island's northwest coast, distinguished by raising its own grass-fed Aberdeen Angus beef since 1998 rather than sourcing from outside suppliers. The kitchen's centrepiece is the Aberdeen Angus steak, complemented by alcatra beef stew -- Terceira's signature slow-cooked dish -- along with bone marrow served with sweet bread and grilled limpets sourced from the island's volcanic coastline. The dining room is rustic and unpretentious, reflecting its farm-to-table roots, with wooden furnishings and a relaxed, conversational noise level; there is no dress code. The beverage list favours Portuguese reds robust enough to stand up to the grass-fed beef and richer stews. Mains run EUR 25 and up (approx USD 27+), reflecting the premium quality of the house-raised meat. Reservations are recommended, since the restaurant's reputation for its own-raised beef draws diners from across Terceira and beyond, and the Altares location means it is not a casual walk-in stop for most visitors.
| Price | $$$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, lunch and dinner |
| Reservations | Recommended |
| Address | Rua As Presas, 13, Altares, 9760 Terceira, Portugal |
Signature dishes
- Aberdeen Angus steak
- Alcatra beef stew
- Bone marrow with sweet bread
- Grilled limpets
Good to know
- Known for
- Terceira beef and steaks; known for grass-fed Aberdeen Angus
Weather through the year in Portugal
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Portugal.
Location
Rua As Presas, 13, Altares, 9760 Terceira, Portugal
38.7717, -27.3167 View on map
Highlights
- House-raised, grass-fed Aberdeen Angus beef since 1998
- Alcatra beef stew, Terceira's signature slow-cooked dish
- Bone marrow with sweet bread
- Grilled limpets from the volcanic coastline
Tips for visiting
- Ask about the day's cut of Aberdeen Angus, since the farm raises its own cattle
- Pair the steak or alcatra with a robust Portuguese red wine
- Reserve ahead given the restaurant's reputation and remote coastal location
- Bone marrow with sweet bread makes a rich starter to share before the main
Accessibility
The restaurant is a ground-floor building in the village of Altares with level street access; specific wheelchair facilities are not confirmed.
Frequently asked questions
What makes A Caneta's beef different?
The restaurant has raised its own grass-fed Aberdeen Angus cattle since 1998, rather than sourcing beef externally.
What is alcatra?
Alcatra is Terceira's signature slow-cooked beef stew, one of the dishes the restaurant is known for.
Is a reservation necessary?
Reservations are recommended given the restaurant's reputation and its location in Altares on Terceira's northwest coast.