Gastronomy

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Tag: Gastronomy

Evening Drinks in Tavira: Best Spots for a Sundowner

Local PleasuresPosted on

As the Algarve sun begins to dip and Tavira’s rooftops turn golden, there’s no better way to end the day than with a cool drink in hand. From stylish rooftops to hidden corners with river views, Tavira offers several laid-back and scenic spots for the perfect sundowner.

One of the top picks is the Terraze Bar Lounge at Hotel Maria Nova, perched above the town. Its sweeping views over the rooftops, the saltpans, and the distant ocean make it a favorite for golden hour cocktails — especially their crisp white port & tonic.

Closer to the center, the Irish Pub (the Black Anchor) on Rua Borda d’Água da Assêca offers a casual terrace where you can watch the last sunlight reflect off the water and rooftops, often with live acoustic music in the background.

Another stylish option is Avant-Garde Bistro Bar, also located on the east bank of the River Gilão, just a few steps from the Roman Bridge. With its sunny terrace and uniquely designed interior, it offers a warm welcome for those seeking a relaxing sundowner. Their menu features a variety of cocktails, wines, fine spirits, and quality champagnes, complemented by delicious dishes that showcase European gastronomy. Their happy hour is famous among expats.

For a quieter, local experience, find your way to the viewpoint near the castle gardens — bring a takeaway drink and enjoy the soft evening light over the river valley, a peaceful moment without the crowds.

Tavira doesn’t rush the sunset. It invites you to slow down, look up, and enjoy every golden minute — glass in hand.

Mesa Farta – Fine Dining Just Steps from Taste Tavira AL

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Just 100 metres from Taste Tavira, Mesa Farta has quietly established itself as one of Tavira’s most refined dining experiences—without ever becoming pretentious. This elegant restaurant combines high-level gastronomy with genuine warmth and a distinctly Portuguese soul.

Behind the scenes is João Viegas (born in Tavira), a chef whose culinary path speaks volumes. He began his journey right here in the Algarve at A Ver Tavira and Santo António, before sharpening his skills at Eleven in Lisbon. Viegas went on to train at some of the world’s most renowned kitchens: Viajante (London), Central (Peru), Mugaritz (Basque Country), and the legendary El Celler de Can Roca (Girona). He served as sous-chef to Leonel Pereira at Michelin-starred São Gabriel (Almancil) from 2013 to 2019, and was named Portugal’s Chef of the Year in 2015. After a stint as head chef at Check In in Faro, he currently also leads the kitchen at Atlântico, the fine-dining restaurant at Vila Vita Parc.

At Mesa Farta, Viegas returns to his Tavira roots with a concept that is elegant yet accessible. The ambiance is quietly sophisticated—no white tablecloths, but carefully curated simplicity. Wide spacing between tables offers privacy and calm, and the open kitchen invites guests to connect with the culinary process.

Dishes here are both technically refined and deeply flavourful, made from seasonal Algarvean ingredients with a modern twist. The staff is multilingual and highly trained, offering warm, personal service and expert wine guidance. With two knowledgeable sommeliers, the wine list is one of the best in town, highlighting regional gems alongside national classics.

Mesa Farta falls into a higher price range, but it offers excellent value for the quality and craftsmanship delivered. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a special night out, this restaurant offers a true “local pleasure” in every sense.

📍 Address: Rua de Santo Estêvão 2 e 4, 8800-386 Tavira
📞 Phone: +351 281 416 371
🌐 Website: mesafarta.com
🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 19:00–22:00 (closed Sundays and Mondays)

Monte Rei – Luxury Golf at Its Finest

GolfPosted on

If you’re looking for one of the most exclusive golf experiences in Portugal, Monte Rei Golf & Country Club delivers in every way. Located in the hills near Vila Nova de Cacela, about 15 minutes from Tavira, Monte Rei is home to a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course that consistently ranks among the best in Europe.

From the moment you arrive, Monte Rei feels different. The service is five-star, the setting is peaceful and expansive, and the course itself is pristine. The par-72 layout winds through rolling terrain with dramatic elevation changes, carefully placed bunkers, and immaculately maintained greens and fairways. Every hole is framed like a painting—with distant mountain views or glimpses of the sea.

Monte Rei isn’t just beautiful—it’s also a serious test of golf. With no two holes alike, players need to think strategically on every shot. But even if your score doesn’t shine, the experience of playing in such a refined and quiet setting is reward enough.

After your round, make time for a meal at Vistas Rui Silvestre, the resort’s Michelin-starred restaurant. With stunning views across the countryside and Atlantic, the menu offers a refined take on Portuguese cuisine, blending local ingredients with international flair. For a more casual bite, the Grill and Veranda restaurants also offer excellent service and quality in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re there for golf or gastronomy, Monte Rei is a destination to remember.