Papaya Café is a modern, health-focused spot in Sal, offering careful brunches, vegan dishes and good coffee. The atmosphere is calm and pleasant, though service can be slow. Best for unhurried breakfasts and light meals away from the noise.
When your body starts asking for something green
After a few days of cachupa, grills and fried food, there comes a moment when your body asks for vegetables, something fresh or, quite simply, an açaí bowl. Papaya Café tends to appear right then, like a lighter pause within the island’s usual menu.
What this place really is
Papaya Café is a modern café–restaurant with a clear European influence, focused on healthy food, vegan options and nicely presented dishes. It doesn’t try to be local or traditional; it’s more the place you go when you want a change of style without going industrial.
It’s small, nicely decorated, calm and quite popular with people looking for careful breakfasts or light dinners.
Where it is and why people like it
It’s well located, close to the beach and busy areas, but without the constant noise of the liveliest bars. It opens early, which already makes it a valuable option on an island where many places start late.
The atmosphere is usually relaxed, tropical and pleasant, especially in the morning.
What you eat when everything goes well
This is where açaí bowls, vegetable soups, sweet and savoury brunches, elaborate toasts, eggs, salads and vegan or gluten-free options stand out. Food is usually served with visual care and clean flavours.
Prices are reasonable for this type of cuisine, although some portions may feel a bit small if you’re very hungry.
The Achilles’ heel: service
Service is the most inconsistent aspect. Some days you’ll get warm attention and smiles; other days the pace becomes very slow, disorganised or simply inattentive.
Waiting 30–40 minutes even for simple items isn’t unusual. It helps to come without rushing and with realistic expectations: this is still Sal.
Breakfasts, cocktails and coffee
Breakfast generally gets better feedback than dinner. Iced coffees and special drinks are often praised. Cocktails, on the other hand, don’t always convince, and some people prefer nearby beach bars for that.
The menu isn’t huge, but it covers the essentials well.
Cleanliness and consistency
Most experiences are positive, although there are occasional reviews mentioning cleanliness issues or poor organisation at specific times. It’s not the norm, but it does happen. Your experience depends a lot on the day and the team on shift.
Papaya Café isn’t a place to rush — it’s a place to sit down, wait… and eat something that makes you feel a bit better.
Who this place is for
If you’re looking for healthy food, vegan options and a calm atmosphere, Papaya Café can be a good fit, as long as you accept the island pace. If waiting frustrates you or you expect fast, consistent service, it may test your patience. This place works best for those who arrive relaxed.
