JazzTimes wrote that "Fantcha’s fine vocals are nicely wrapped in production textures that manage to be both slick and raw, with the fanciful saloon pianisms and multiguitar Gypsy flourish of Evora’s recordings."[14] Newsday determined that, "with its principally acoustic instrumentation, Criolinha succeeds in creating an ambiance that seems rooted in tradition without feeling old-fashioned."[15]
Rolling Stone stated that Fantcha "intones brokenhearted ballads in Creole-Portuguese while violins and clarinets longingly accompany her."[16] The Chicago Tribune concluded that the album "has a fuller sound, a sometimes rougher beauty, and definitely a more danceable, swaying beat [than Évora's work]."[17]
AllMusic wrote that "Criolinha is a collection of sadly poignant and touching songs from a gifted vocalist refined with world-class tutelage."[9] In 2005, The Boston Globe labeled the album "a gorgeous collection that captures [Fantcha's] silky, insinuating voice."[18]
