Discovering Mindelo, São Vicente: Cabo Verde’s Musical Gem
- Justine
- Dec 12, 2024
- 3 min read
One of the top destinations on my bucket list was São Vicente, an island in the northern part of Cabo Verde. After visiting, I can confidently say that Mindelo, its vibrant cultural hub, became my absolute favorite! Looking back, I wish I had stayed longer and rented a car to explore more. The roads were well-maintained, and from what I saw, the locals are skilled drivers. Interestingly, one of my guides mentioned that when cars break down, spare parts usually need to be imported, making repairs costly—perhaps that’s why everyone takes such good care of their vehicles!
Why Mindelo Captivated Me
Praia Laginha: A Beach Lover’s Paradise
Mindelo’s Praia Laginha was a highlight for me. Despite being an artificial beach, it was stunning, and I spent hours swimming. Be warned though—it gets deep quickly, so good swimming skills are essential. The locals adore this beach, and you’ll find both tourists and residents soaking up the sun. The waves were calm, which made it perfect for a relaxing swim.
Music: The Heartbeat of Mindelo
Music plays a central role in Mindelo's identity; every restaurant I visited featured a live band, showcasing locals' deep appreciation for musical artistry.
Carnival is another testament to Mindelo's love for music. The city hosts an exuberant carnival parade where people dance samba and wear costumes similar to Brazilians' carnival-goers. During my visit, I spoke with a tour guide who shared that many locals save money throughout the year to afford these flamboyant carnival costumes.
I was very struck by the prominence of carnival culture in Mindelo. It was an unexpected surprise, as I had previously associated such celebrations with Caribbean islands more than with African countries.
Given music's significance in Mindelo, it’s no wonder the city has produced legendary musicians, including the iconic Cesária Évora.
Mindelo’s nightlife
Casa Tchicau: A Family Spot
My first night in Mindelo started at Casa Tchicau, a restaurant I had seen recommended for both food and live music. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite live up to the hype. While the staff was friendly, the food was mediocre, and the music was just okay. The place had a family vibe, and I noticed many French families enjoying the affordable three-course meal. While it’s great for families, I wouldn’t recommend it for solo travelers or those looking for a more lively atmosphere.
Metalo: best music lounge in Mindelo
Afterward, I tried Metalo, a spot I found online with glowing reviews for its live music. And wow—Metalo exceeded all my expectations! The venue was chic and modern, with beautiful décor featuring lots of greenery. There were both indoor and outdoor seating options, and the ambiance was perfect for enjoying the night.
The cocktail I ordered was fantastic, and I regretted not having dinner there after seeing the amazing dishes being served. The highlight, though, was the live music. A talented Cabo Verdean band played songs in Kriolo, and everyone—locals and tourists alike—was dancing along. I loved how the venue celebrated its own culture without catering to tourists. They even offer traditional dance classes on some nights, which I thought was such a cool touch.
After the kitchen closed, something unexpected happened: the kitchen staff joined the musicians on stage to dance! It was such a fun and spontaneous moment, and I had never seen anything like it before. It really captured the spirit of Mindelo—joyful, musical, and full of surprises.
I stayed at Metalo for hours, and when the night ended, I was still buzzing with excitement. If you’re in Mindelo, Metalo is an absolute must-visit! (And no, this is not a paid promo—just genuine enthusiasm!). To see video clips from Metalo's concerts, go to my IG page.
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