Snack-bar A Doca, Olhão

To get here, you have to enter the Olhão docks (the same way the fishermen do before and after working on the trawlers) – and when you do, it’s worth taking a look at the boats and the men that crew them;

speak a little with those that live on the sea, feel the pulse of these people of Olhão, hear their stories and some of the difficulties their profession faces in these difficult times of such uncertain future.

The restaurant is right at the heart of the dockland area and frequented by all those connected with fishing, as well as by others who have discovered its secret. It celebrates its 8th birthday next September…

António Salvador, the owner, also an experienced fisherman, normally works the grill and is always ready to talk to his customers. An unusual feature of this place is that it never closes; it’s open 24 hours a day – with fresh fish in front of customers all day long.

There’s also a saltwater aquarium with live shellfish. Another interesting feature is the huge collection of miniature fishing boats dotted about the restaurant. For our (repeat) visit, and as they’re well in season, we ordered sardines (€16 for 2 people) and draught white wine.

And, of course, we left the best till last: it’s here that you’ll find the most delicious Dom Rodrigo (traditional Algarvian confectionary made with egg) we’ve ever had! Definitely worth a visit!

Specialities: fresh fish; Hours: Open 24-hours a day. Snacks served outside normal mealtime hours; Bank cards: Multibanco; Price: €26.50 for 2; Owner: António Salvador; NIF 127 082 310.