Restaurante Flor do Arneiro

For the regulars (clients and friends) it’s known simply as “Nelson’s place”. Owner/ manager Nelson is a fanatical “hunter”, and you see this the minute you walk in, and from what comes out of the kitchen. The menu carries dishes like rabbit (€20), partridge (€17.50), both sold whole.

Black pig, too, has pride of place at the table – and clients can choose between kebabs or grilled “secretos”, the succulently fatty underbelly. But, we’re still in the Algarve, so fresh fish and shellfish can also be found in typical dishes like clam rice and shrimp “açorda”.

These last two are to savour in good company. For more daily fare, Nelson’s place has economically priced, ready-to-go dishes of the day. When we visited, the choices were chicken in the oven, razor fish rice and Black Pig ribs. We went for the latter because, to be honest, we’d never tried them.

Well seasoned and accompanied by little sautéed potatoes, the experience was a success! The service was prompt and the staff all friendly. In fact, it was such a portion that we had no room left to sample the homemade desserts. They’ll have to wait till next time…

Specialities: Traditional Portuguese and Algarvian cooking; Hours: Lunches and dinners. Closed Sundays; Bill: €15.70 for 2 people; NIF 124124100.