Camara De Lobos Aruba - Portuguese Skewered Patio in Oranjestad

Camara De Lobos Skewered Patio is a Portuguese-Madeiran-inspired restaurant in Oranjestad — a charming intimate spot named after the famous fishing village in Madeira where Winston Churchill once painted. With a 4.7-star rating across 145+ reviews, this is one of the highest-rated hidden gems in downtown Oranjestad, beloved for its grilled meat skewers (the namesake espetadas), Portuguese seafood, and warm family-run service.

About Camara De Lobos Skewered Patio

The setting is intentionally cozy — a covered patio strung with lights, casual island-Portuguese aesthetic, the kind of place where the owner often stops by your table. The kitchen specializes in Madeiran espetadas — large skewers of beef, chicken, or shrimp grilled over an open flame and served hanging on a hook stand at your table. It’s both an Instagram moment and a genuinely delicious cooking technique. Beyond the espetadas, the menu covers Portuguese seafood (bacalhau, octopus), classic Iberian appetizers, and a curated wine list with strong Portuguese reds. Hours are dinner-focused. Reservations recommended on weekends.

Camara De Lobos Skewered Patio interior and atmosphere — Camara De Lobos Skewered Patio — Lloyd G. Smith Blvd 9, Oranjestad, Aruba

Signature dishes & menu highlights

The Beef Espetada (skewer) is the must-order — large chunks of marinated beef grilled over open flame, served on the hanging skewer stand. The Chicken Espetada and Shrimp Espetada are equally well-executed alternatives. Bolo do Caco (Madeiran flatbread with garlic butter) is the must-order side. Bacalhau à Brás (salt cod) is the Portuguese classic done right. Start with Pasteis de Bacalhau (cod fritters) or the Octopus Salad. Wine: order a Portuguese red — the staff will steer you to a great pairing.

Camara De Lobos Skewered Patio signature dishes — Signature plates at Camara De Lobos Skewered Patio

Practical info

Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM

Address: Lloyd G. Smith Blvd 9, Oranjestad, Aruba
Phone: 569 5674
Rating: 4.7★ on Google (147 reviews)
Website: Visit official site

Camara De Lobos Skewered Patio dining experience — Camara De Lobos Skewered Patio — Lloyd G. Smith Blvd 9, Oranjestad, Aruba

What guests are saying

Reviewers consistently use words like hidden gem, authentic, and best meal of the trip. The hanging-skewer presentation is the most-photographed element. Service is described as warm and family-like — the owner often comes by to chat. The Portuguese-Madeiran cuisine is a unique offering on Aruba and stands out from the usual Caribbean-American resort restaurants. Pricing is moderate (entrées $25-45 USD). Excellent for couples, foodie travelers, and anyone interested in trying something genuinely different from the standard Aruba restaurant menu.