Restaurante OS MANOS

Next to the grill, the “house artist”, as the owner calls him, welcomes guests and sings the praises of the fish that grace the display cabinet. Eight years ago, when Dona Celeste and Sr João António took over the running of “Os Manos” restaurant, they decided not to change its name, but to add a “personal touch”. As time passed, this restaurant at the back of Faro International Airport became famous for its fresh fish and friendly, low-key brand of service. Dona Celeste goes as far as saying “Os Manos” is now the “most famous grill house in the whole Faro area”.

Advised by chef Leonel, we decided on the “fish selection” (€ 8,50), and to keep cool chose to sit inside and take full advantage of the air conditioning. Straight away, soft bread was put in front of us, with tasty olives and the habitual pats of butter. We asked for a jug of Sangria (€ 8,50) while we awaited the fish. The cold wine, with soft broken fruit and mint leaves has a wonderful aroma and is truly delicious. Very quickly, Dona Celeste brings a mountain salad (sometimes called “Algarvian salad”: tomato, cucumber, onion and cubed green pepper) and boiled potatoes. We liked the detail of the boiled sweet potato that came with them. The first fish that the diligent and delightful Leonel served us was “choupa” (a type of sea bream), followed by a small “besugo” (again, of the sea bream type), some sardines, a “sargo” (white bream) and some salmon steaks. Everything he brought to the table came straight off the grill – working flat out now with the sudden increase in customers. The “fish selection” here (“mista de peixe”) is definitely the best choice for anyone interested in tasting a little of the best that the immense Algarve sea has to offer. We actually had to refuse the mackerel that the chef brought us - we simply didn’t have any room left!

Time to stock up on sugar with a slice of Dona Celeste’s homemade biscuit cake while we enjoyed our coffee. After eating a lot more than we should have, we allowed ourselves to stay awhile, among conversations between locals, the afternoon television news – and a lunch with a holiday flavour…

Specialities: Mixed selections of fish and meat; kebabs (monkfish, pork, squid, chicken); Owners: Mesas do Mundo, Restauração Unipessoal, Lda., NIF: 507 865 812