Discover the flavours of the sea
– September 9, 2024 | Text Beatriz Maio
Located opposite the Municipal Market in Portimão, the concept behind Ostraria D’Alvor is an original idea that brings fresh produce to the table, enchanting guests with its fresh, authentic Algarve cuisine.
The restaurant, a brainchild of businesswoman Patrícia Jacinto and her husband João Águas, opened in May 2023 and offers a cosy, family-like atmosphere where guests can enjoy the flavours of the sea.
With a degree in Marketing and Advertising from Lisbon’s IADE (Faculty of Design, Technology and Communication), Patrícia has built a cosy, beautifully decorated restaurant, where diners can feel at home.
With the help of her childhood friend João Henriques of My Colibry Home Concept, who spearheaded the complete renovation of the venue, the concept reflects the couple’s own love for seafood and the intimate dinners they host for friends and family.
The menu at Ostraria D’Alvor mirrors this spirit of hospitality and regional pride, featuring local delicacies, with a particular emphasis on the oysters from the Ria de Alvor – an underappreciated local gem.
The recommended starters are Suzel’s Rissol (savoury fritters) and Valdemar’s Octopus Salad, named after Patrícia’s parents and setting the tone for a warm, personal dining experience.
Main dishes include Salvador’s grilled prawns and Clarinha’s preguinho (a traditional Portuguese beef steak), both named after the couple’s children.
In addition to these, the restaurant offers oysters prepared in various styles – au naturel, fried, or au gratin – along with dishes like razor clams and clams “à Bulhão Pato,” featuring a classic Algarvian sauce made with olive oil, garlic, and coriander.
This year, the menu has expanded with a focus on more complex dishes, including fish and oyster ceviches and tuna and salmon tartare.
For a snack, the menu also features oyster rissol, fried prawns, and prawn balls.
To finish, you can’t miss chef Maria do Carmo’s dessert, a tasty almond tart served with a scoop of ice cream.
“We want to offer an experience that reflects the flavours that define our region, focusing on seafood and sea-inspired snacks, accompanied by a glass of fine wine, in a space where people can talk to each other and enjoy a great meal peacefully,” highlighted Patrícia Jacinto.
The carefully curated wine cellar, prominently featuring wines from the Algarve region, complements the dining experience, adding a local touch. As the owner emphasises, every detail at Ostraria D’Alvor is thoughtfully designed to ensure customer satisfaction “and provide a convivial environment”.
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