Arco-Iris

8200-609, R. da Bela Vista 8, Atalaia de Cima, Portugal
$$$ cafe
(111 Reviews)
Price Range €1–5

Welcome to Arco-Iris, a hidden gem nestled in the charming Atalaia de Cima, Portugal. This delightful little café offers not just a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life but also a flavorful journey into the heart of homemade Portuguese delicacies. With its inviting atmosphere and friendly faces, Arco-Iris has truly become a beloved staple within the local community and visitors alike.

As you step inside, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sweet scent of pastries, creating a warm and inviting ambiance that's perfect for a mid-morning snack or a leisurely lunch. Customers rave about the delightful variety of freshly made sandwiches resting on homemade bread—each bite expertly crafted to showcase robust flavors that keep patrons coming back for more. Among the highlights, the egg mayonnaise sandwiches have earned a dedicated following, praised for their creamy richness and perfectly balanced seasoning.

Your taste buds will also be treated to the iconic pastel de nata, a Portuguese custard tart with a flaky pastry shell. While some may find the dessert a touch shy of perfection, it’s still a must-try, embodying the essence of a classic treat that speaks to the heart of Portuguese sweets.

What truly sets Arco-Iris apart is its atmosphere. With cheerful staff who exude warmth and hospitality, each visit feels like reconnecting with old friends. Customers like Cairn 1902 have made it a tradition to stop by, declaring it their “first port of call” whenever in town. The café's quiet location off the main road lends itself to a tranquil experience, allowing guests to pause, savor their treats, and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

With similar sentiments, Josh Dharmanandan captures the essence of Arco-Iris perfectly, noting it’s “a lovely chilled atmosphere for a snack and coffee.” Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to catch up with friends, or simply want to enjoy a moment of solitude over a steaming cup, this café delivers.

Overall, Arco-Iris is more than just a café; it's a community hub where memories are made and delightful flavors are celebrated. For anyone visiting Atalaia de Cima, a stop at Arco-Iris promises a heartwarming experience that's sure to leave lasting memories, just as it has for so many loyal patrons over the years.

Service options
Outdoor seating
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 06:30 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 06:30 PM

111 Reviews
Cairn 1902

06 Oct 2025

This was the first cafè we visited on our first holiday in Olhos D’Agua over 30 years ago, and it has been our first port of call for every holiday visit since. Excellent food, especially the egg mayonnaise sandwiches and pastel de nata! Wonderful, cheerful staff. WE LOVE THIS CAFÈ!!!

Josh Dharmanandan

06 Sep 2025

Lovely little cafe, just tucked away on a side road. Driving down the main road you would miss it unless you noticed the sign and walked through the shops to get to it. Friendly staff and a variety of freshly made sandwiches with homemade bread. A gorgeous array of pastries also available and definitely a lovely chilled atmosphere for a snack and coffee.

Nersi Maz

15 Aug 2025

Great price and friendly service! Fresh pastry as well.

Борис Николаенко

09 Aug 2025

Coffee was great. Pastel de nata was not. Tasted like 4 out of 5.

Nick

01 Aug 2025

My fave place here for 10 years everyone is amazing and get the sun all day

Katie Devlin

18 Jul 2025

Lovely coffee and absolutely outstanding cakes and pastries - I can’t wait to try more! Nice seating area with options of shade or sun. The lady that served me noted that they are closed on Mondays.

Josh Lunt

22 Jun 2025

Went here today for lunch with my Mum. Great location with friendly and professional staff and lovely food (I had the ham and cheese baguette). Only bad point was the jug of tea wasn't a very good pourer and kept spilling everywhere.

Matthew Sykes

22 Jun 2025

Mostly outside seating over quite a large patio, with about 40% being shaded. Some inside seating. There is a wide choice of pastries and sandwiches/toasties. Very quick service and the food is always very good. Again, as with most cafes around here, coffee and softdrinks are consistently good, with the usual selection of beers. Seems like a bit of a local coffee shop, with a few regulars that give you the eye when you come in. However, the staff are really nice and welcoming and we always enjoy the visit.

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