Portugal, being a Latin nation, takes the pleasure of dining very seriously and locals are often seen enjoying lengthy meals of delicious seafood and house wine at several Armacao de Pera restaurants and cafes across the city. The Armacado de Pera eating out guide offers visitors comprehensive information on the culinary scene in this charming Portuguese town.

Traditional Portuguese Meals

A typical Portuguese meal at a local restaurant consists of a large assortment of seafood bordering more on the grilled variety, boiled potatoes and a salad or some steamed vegetables served with a special Portuguese house wine. Other favorite dishes include pork slices with mushroom sauce, omelets and grilled chicken legs. Meals in most restaurants in town are reasonably priced compared to other European nations, and the portions are very large. An average meal for 2 with wine costs approximately €25. The rates may, however, vary according to the ambiance and location of the eatery.

Some popular traditional speciality dishes are Bacalhau, a dried cod preparation; chicken piri piri, a chilli pepper flavoured spicy dish; Feijoda, bacon served with bean stew; and Bife, smoked ham and beef sirloin served with French Fries. For a true taste of the local grub visit a shabby looking tavern or tusca, which though not very high on its setting, serve scrumptious meals at the most incredible prices.

“Ementa Turistica”

These are specially designed meals for tourists and consist mainly of a three-course meal combo that is priced lower than the rates normally quoted on the menu for individual items. Visitors are welcomed with house wine, bread, fresh olives and a bunch of traditional appetizers, which is followed by an elaborate meal of seafood and meat.

Ocean

For a more upmarket dining experience, visitors can head to Ocean (located in the 5-Star Hotel Vila Vita Complex). The restaurant is compact and elite and serves high quality signature dishes in the backdrop of a striking ocean view.

Raj

For lovers of spicy Indian fare, Raj, located in the Garbe Hotel is a great option that serves a variety of authentic Indian items and local wines. The service is friendly and attentive and the decor is minimalist yet classy. Try the in-house favourite 'Chicken Tikka' (spicy roasted pieces of chicken) with traditional naan or bread and the special black lentil preparations. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and prior reservation is recommended, since the place is almost always packed.

Apart from these, there are several other restaurants serving international cuisine including Chinese, Mediterranean, Italian and Mexican, to cater to less adventurous tourists wanting to stick to comfort foods from their region.

Contributor : Sameera Kumar