Pastelaria Bem me Quero, Almancil

Ingredients like tofu and seitan – even though very healthy and recipe-friendly – have still not been that accepted by mainstream restaurants. It’s a pity because there are so many health-conscious eaters out there.

It was with this in mind that we visited Almancil, a place well-known for its number of (good) restaurants. In an inconspicuous corner – we had to go round the “bureaucratic stamp” (monument to immigration) roundabout a few times – this space opened about a year ago, led by Jorge Silva and Susana Ferreira, both chefs with huge experience in European restaurant catering.

In fact, the couple has also written a book, called «Cozinha Vegetariana à Portuguesa» (Portuguese Vegetarian Cooking). Susana Ferreira wrote the recipes, Jorge Silva took the photographs.

The self-published book is for sale in the restaurant (and on the Internet) as well as various regional products like local honey, gourmet olive oil and teas. The décor is contemporary, in tones of red and white – and we particularly admired the large silk-screen painting on one of the walls.

To eat, we ordered seitan casserole, cooked with beer, served with pureed potato, vegetables and salad. It came beautifully presented, and was delicious. We also ordered the Oriental chicken with Chinese noodles and salad. A complete meal here, with drink and coffee costs €7.50 (a half-portion, but it’s enough).

To accompany the meal, we’d suggest a biological red wine – and those who prefer not to drink have teas (we’d recommend the thyme) and natural fruit juices to choose from (€2). The restaurant also serves light meals and snacks, like sandwiches and toasties. Another real plus point is the dessert selection! Check out the mouthwatering crumbles or Banoffi Pie. It’s worth coming here just for these!

Specialities: vegetarian food, natural fruit juices and snacks; Hours: meals served from midday to 8pm; Bill: €17.30 for 2 people; Owner: Multifénix, Lda.; NIF 508 375 355.