Legacy Ithos welcomes the opening of ORIGO 34, a new beachfront restaurant paying tribute to the Island of Porto Santo.
The gastronomic concept is shaped by the vision of two leading figures in Portuguese gastronomy. Chef Manuel Santos brings an authentic approach, rooted in tradition and regional flavours, while Chef Diogo Rocha, awarded a Michelin star, adds a contemporary dimension in which technique, sustainability and respect for ingredients elevate every creation. Together, they have developed a cuisine that honours its origins while continuing to surprise.
The name Origo derives from the Latin word “origo”, meaning “origin”, a fitting reflection of the restaurant’s philosophy, rooted in the sea, the land and the island’s people. The number 34 is a direct reference to the birth date of the grandmother of the family that owns the establishment and the Ferpinta company, whose legacy is now carried forward by the third generation.
With a privileged beachfront location and seating for 110 guests, ORIGO 34 celebrates the authenticity of local cuisine in a setting where the sea and nature are always present. Inspired by the flavours of Porto Santo and Madeira, the restaurant values freshness, simplicity and tradition, while bringing a contemporary perspective to traditional Portuguese flavours.
Guided by a “sea-to-table” and “farm-to-table” philosophy, ORIGO 34 prioritises local and seasonal produce, with a particular emphasis on fresh fish and seafood. The culinary experience is complemented by a carefully selected range of Portuguese wines and cocktails, designed to harmonise naturally with the flavours of the Atlantic and the relaxed rhythm of island life.
Located just steps from the sea and open daily from 7 am to 11 pm, the restaurant embodies the relaxed spirit of Porto Santo, combining fresh local produce, panoramic ocean views and the island’s legendary hospitality.
Gastronomic Offering
ORIGO 34 offers a gastronomic experience throughout the day, beginning with breakfast, where guests can enjoy a varied selection highlighting the freshness and quality of local produce. Throughout the day, the restaurant transforms into a relaxed setting for light meals, snacks and drinks, before making way for dinner, always maintaining its focus on flavour, quality and authenticity.
“In Porto Santo, we found a place with a unique identity, which inspires us to create a gastronomic experience capable of leaving its mark both nationally and internationally. ORIGO 34 was created with the clear ambition of celebrating Portuguese cuisine through its origins: the sea, the land and the people. We are building a project with soul, where human values are just as important as the excellence of the products,” says Chef Diogo Rocha.
With the sea as his inspiration, Chef Diogo Rocha has created a fresh and unpretentious menu that celebrates the very best of locally sourced fish and seafood. Highlights include the “Tuna Route”, featuring six distinct dishes:
- Tuna tartare, lemon and coriander;
- Marinated tuna, passion fruit, corn and mint;
- Tuna escabeche, wild asparagus and basil;
- Tuna muxama, dried figs and lettuce heart;
- Chopped tuna, beetroot, carrot and chives;
- Tuna steak sandwich, black bolo do caco and wholegrain mustard.
Other highlights on the menu include Broken Eggs with golden cod loin; octopus fritters with pepper and coriander; a flavourful fish and seafood pasta with pennyroyal; and Baixo Mondego Carolino rice with red prawn and coriander.
“A restaurant with a strong emphasis on local produce, whether from the sea or the land,” focused on serving “comfort food designed to be shared, but with a touch of innovation” — this is how Executive Chef Manuel Santos describes the concept. While fish and seafood take centre stage, the menu also includes meat and vegetarian options.
The menu is completed with Portuguese classics, including homemade sweet potato preserve, coastal prawns with sea salt, dried gaiado escabeche, and a tribute to Madeira’s seafood traditions with charcoal-grilled limpets.
Throughout the menu, Chef Manuel Santos’ culinary philosophy is clear: authentic ingredients, precise technique and absolute respect for seasonality, with dishes designed to be enjoyed in the relaxed setting of a beachfront restaurant.
More Than a Beachfront Restaurant
ORIGO 34 extends the experience beyond the table, offering guests a relaxed way to enjoy Porto Santo’s famous coastline.
Exclusive sun lounger area: Hotel guests can enjoy reserved sun loungers by the sea and choose from a selection of dishes to enjoy the beachfront experience without leaving the sand.
Local sourcing: The restaurant places great emphasis on local and regional suppliers, particularly when it comes to fish and seafood, supporting the island’s fishing community and prioritising the freshest produce available.
Commitment to sustainability: ORIGO 34 gives preference to local suppliers and seasonal produce, while adopting responsible practices aimed at reducing its environmental impact and supporting the local community.
At ORIGO 34, the experience ultimately comes down to returning to what matters most: the sea, the land, exceptional produce and the pleasure of sharing a meal, all set against the unmistakable backdrop of Porto Santo.
INFO: legacyithos.com