Hotel restaurants have been disappointing in Portugal. Frequently they seem like recyclers of dishes prepped for residents, unlike most joints in town.
Mirsal, I'm happy to say, is the exception.
Housed in a newly renovated hotel with quality finishes and aesthetics, the local buzz about this restaurant is true. The food and service are simply outstanding. And Chef Fabio makes an appearance to check on the diners experience -- a very good sign indeed.
Start with the sourdough bread and focaccia served with olive oil . Delicious.
The pressed lamb cooked to a fork tender texture was exquisite and well flavored, served alongside flavored rice and yogurt. Perfect main.
The grilled pork belly starter with a crispy feuille on top, floating in a wondrous creamy sauce hit all the senses / beautiful to look at and with plenty of umami to write home about.
The pan seared salmon over tomatoes with crispy skin was one of the best such preparations I've had in a country where salmon is on everyone's menu. This fish was floated in what seemed to be a transparent sauce -- I'm thinking like aspic - but not as thick. It was exquisite and perfectly defined and enhanced the tender salmon on top that flaked perfectly with each fork full.
We passed on dessert - the mains having fully satisfied.
Wines by the glass and bottle are well curated and cocktails are available, if you must. Stick with the wines and ask your server to recommend a Portuguese wine to augment your meal. I'm fond of the Alentejo and Douro selections, but experiment. So much to choose from.
Thank you chef Fabio and staff for one of the finest meals we have eaten in Tavira in our 5 year odyssey in your country. The Michelin guide is next for sure.
Top Tip: reservations are a must. The price point is surprisingly reasonable for the quality of the food. read more