Restaurante A Palmeira

And thus we found a hidden gastronomic treasure on the old EN125 road, just before the picturesque little town of Estômbar.

You could almost miss it, hidden as it is behind a car park, lined by palm trees which, happily, put the road in the background (and everything that goes with it).

The restaurant has a terrace in the atrium, is nice and spacious inside, is decorated with traditional Portuguese tiles, and very clean – the cloakrooms, particularly.

We were delighted to find that lunch here costs €7.50, with everything included! “A Palmeira” lives up to its name outside, with the comfort of shade from a gigantic (still healthy!) palm tree.

The service here is friendly, experienced and very attentive.

First, we were brought perfectly seasoned olives and fresh bread. The couvert also includes sardine paté and butter. We asked for a chilled jug of the house white wine. What distinguishes this place is its large selection of dishes – which change everyday.

The day we arrived, there was chicken in the oven, grilled pork steaks, ribs and belly and a mixed grill.

There was also salmon, “dourada”, mackerel and “robalo”. Our choice was unanimous – we all chose the “robalo” (sea bass), which came swiftly, accompanied by carrots, salad and boiled potatoes. Homemade desserts here also vary by the day.

Among the choice was a fabulous “bolo de bolacha” (biscuit cake), a fruit salad full of vitamins, a typical carob cake, an extraordinary “tarte de whiskey” and a very refreshing orange roll. We decided to go for the fruit salad and biscuit cake – and with coffee, enjoyed a typical “licor Beirão” and “amarguinha fresca” (almond digestif).

We would certainly recommend this establishment. The food is excellent, the ambience more than delightful and the service impeccable – and that’s before we mention the absolutely fantastic price!

Specialities: Grills; Hours: from midday to 3pm & from 7pm to 11pm; closed Sunday night; Price: €7.50; Owner: Mário Eugénio Cabrita; NIF 158 477 944.