Portugal the Simple Life
Jun 24, 2022
Food in Foz do Arelho is all about freshness and the flavours of the sea! This coastal village in Portugal is bathed not only by the Atlantic Ocean, but also by the most extensive lagoon ecosystem in Europe.
On one side, Foz do Arelho benefits from the proximity of the sea, from where fresh fish arrives every day at the tables of local restaurants.
On the other side is Óbidos Lagoon, where the local shellfish includes such delicacies as clams, cockles and green crabs! Several generations of shellfish gatherers — many of whom still fish sustainably on the traditional wooden "bateiras" boats — ensure that the shellfish caught here is always fresh!
A gastronomic experience at Foz do Arelho also stands out for the unique atmosphere on this famous Silver Coast beach. In the air, there is a laid-back and friendly atmosphere that makes a mealtime linger as the sun travels along the beach. In fact, watching the sunset at Foz do Arelho is one of the best moments you can have while dining with a sea view!
It is no coincidence that the Portuguese deem living in Foz do Arelho such a privilege! Considered one of the best places to live on Portugal's Silver Coast, at Foz do Arelho expect a wonderful lifestyle that coexists in perfect harmony with centuries-old traditions linked to the sea and beach cooking.
Discover the best restaurants in Foz do Arelho and find out for yourself what all the fuss is about:
Cocos Veggie e Tal (which recently changed its name from Cocos Beach Club) is one of the most popular restaurants in Foz do Arelho, located on Avenida do Mar, the beautiful avenue with "calçada" paving that faces Foz do Arelho's ocean beach.
Recently, this restaurant has committed itself to a "greener" approach to sustainable cooking and eating, offering various vegan and vegetarian options that maintain all the flavours that clients have learned to love.
However, this is not a 100% vegetarian or vegan restaurant, as there are still fish and seafood options that honour the restaurant’s geographic location, privileging local ingredients and traditions.
How to get there:
Avenida do Mar
2500-896 Foz do Arelho
GPS:
39°26'00.6"N 9°13'39.4"W
Reservations:
Cais da Praia restaurant and terrace are right on Foz do Arelhgo beach. Expect breathtaking views at this Silver Coast beach restaurant, which is also a cocktail bar where live music makes summer nights even more special.
You can enjoy your meal inside or outside, with a privileged view over Óbidos Lagoon.
Among the most famous house dishes, "Bacalhau à Cais da Praia" (signature codfish dish), "Polvo à Lagareiro" (traditional Portuguese octopus dish roasted in the oven) or "Filete de Robalo" (sea bass fillet) stand out, as well as their salads.
How to get there:
Avenida do Mar
2500-896 Foz do Arelho
GPS:
39°25'46.1"N 9°13'27.3"W
Reservations:
Tibino is a traditional restaurant famous for its "petiscos" (the Portuguese version of tapas). Located in the centre of the village of Foz do Arelho, here you can count on fresh products carefully prepared and a very cosy vintage decoration, which is quite different from other restaurants on the Silver Coast.
Besides the tapas and snacks, other house favourites include grilled fish and desserts.
It also has options for vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free.
How to get there:
Rua Francisco Almeida Grandela 141 A
2500-487 Foz do Arelho
GPS:
39°26'11.7"N 9°12'37.7"W
Reservations:
This traditional Portuguese restaurant, located in the centre of the village of Foz do Arelho, has a cosy family atmosphere and a cuisine based on the taste for tradition and for simple, fresh ingredients, which are mainly regional and in season.
You can also count on a wide range of wines selected from various wine regions of Portugal.
Távola has a café, bar and snack service, allowing you to have lunch, dinner, snacks, breakfast, a drink or a simple coffee. Very much in the style of the food & friends concept, the focus is on sharing good food with friends and family, in a cosy and pleasant environment.
How to get there:
Rua Francisco Almeida Grandela 133
2500-487 Foz do Arelho
GPS:
39°26'11.8"N 9°12'39.5"W
Reservations:
Ala Norte is a welcoming beach restaurant with a unique decoration inspired by the sea. It is located at the northern end of Foz do Arelho Beach.
With a fantastic location facing the Atlantic and the Berlengas Islands, Ala Norte is the ideal place for a meal in good company or for a late afternoon drink watching the sunset over the sea.
Among the favourite snacks, don't miss the nachos, sandwiches, salads, bowls, quesadillas and burgers. A place designed for laid-back relaxation with a family atmosphere, the aroma of the beach and the taste of summer.
How to get there:
Praia do mar - Foz do Arelho
GPS:
39°26'03.8"N 9°13'39.7"W
Reservations:
Here, the name says it all: “cabana do pescador”, the fisherman’s hut. The Portuguese and Mediterranean menu is served in a cosy atmosphere. When the sun shines, there is a terrace at your disposal. If you prefer to eat in a cooler atmosphere, the interior of the restaurant is air-conditioned. There is also a take-away service.
Crab, spider crab, prawns, clams and lobster are just some seafood delicacies you can taste in this restaurant overlooking the sea. As well as several options of fresh fish.
How to get there:
Avenida do Mar
2500-896 Foz do Arelho
GPS:
39°25'59.2"N 9°13'39.4"W
Reservations:
Located in Nadadouro, next to the bandstand of this small village in Foz do Arelho, Eels, Beef & Co. is a typical Portuguese restaurant. Here you can count on the traditional flavours of Portuguese dishes, combined with the best local specialities and regional ingredients.
The menu makes the most of the proximity to Óbidos Lagoon, including several suggestions for appetizers cooked with local ingredients, such as "clams à bulhão pato" or the traditional fried eels. “Caldeirada” (fish stew) is another house favourite. The restaurant is also known for its chef’s friendliness and great prices, offering a daily fixed-price lunch menu with the ‘dish of the day’ that includes bread, olives and coffee.
With a privileged view of the green landscape surrounding the beautiful village of Nadadouro, especially on the outdoor patio, Eels, Beef & Co. is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal when visiting Óbidos Lagoon or Foz do Arelho.
How to get there:
Rua N. Sra. do Bom Sucesso
2500-573 Nadadouro
GPS:
39.41888673367528, -9.188659775336763
Reservations:
This restaurant is the ideal place to go when you want a typical Portuguese meal, with simple ingredients and with good value... It's the place where the locals enjoy a hearty Sunday lunch with the family or a quick meal on the weekdays.
Pátio dos Amigos is perfect for a meal of traditional Portuguese flavours and with very generous portions... so don't forget to leave room for dessert.
How to get there:
Rua do Carreirico 6
2500-571 Nadadouro
GPS:
39.41888673367528, -9.188659775336763
Join us on this culinary journey and discover the Silver Coast's best restaurants...