Café e Chocolate - Gelataria e Lounge Café

Two Portuguese and one Frenchman joined forces to open a very different space and give Faro’s downtown area a welcome change of tempo! Situated at a strategic point at Largo da Pontinha, the café has become a focal point for city dwellers and people working in the area.

Lawyers, doctors, shopkeepers – they all meet here for a snack or just to have a cup of coffee. It’s probably the only place downtown where you can buy a “bica” for just 50 cents… We opted for the dish of the day for a “reunion lunch”: steaks with mushrooms, accompanied by rice and salad, a drink and coffee or dessert – all for €5.

And if you’re on a diet, this place has that covered too, with their “Menu Light” which offers a salad of your choice and a drink, for €6.50. We’d also recommend the French Toast, made with homemade bread, brie and grilled bacon!

Hmm… we’ll definitely be back when there’s more time to try the range of crepes (sweet and savoury), accompanied by a fruit shake. At the end of the day the younger crowd enjoy popping in here for their hot chocolates, but early birds will also find the place open and serving breakfasts, either English or French (with traditional authentic French croissants).

And if you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll be sure of a welcome from friendly manager Livia. It was actually difficult to leave such a beguiling terrace after a lunch with the flavour of summer holidays…

Owner: Gourmet Happenings; Manager: Livia Scalia; Hours: Monday to Thursday from 8am to midnight; Fridays, Saturdays and Bank Holiday eves, from 8am to 2am; Specialities: crepes, tapas, salads, toasties, hot chocolates and ice creams; Bill: €12 for 2 people.