We've visited both mainland Portugal as well as the Azores & we've been looking forward to going to Tavira for some time now. We went on what turned out to be a quiet Sunday evening and were treated wonderfully by wait staff and the owner/chef himself, Duarte Rebolo! We especially appreciated his taking the time to answer our many questions about his restaurant.
While our original plan was to try a few of the traditional Portuguese items on the menu, we changed our minds (somewhat) when learning of the daily specials. Along with a delicious bottle of Vinho Verde: "Portal Fidalgo Alvarinho" (a bit expensive at $50) we enjoyed 2 appetizers, 2 entrees and 2 desserts -- ALL DELICIOUS!
By the end of our leisurely dinner, we realized that we had let our initial enthusiasm get the better of us as portions are VERY generous ... so next time we'll most likely split an appetizer & have just one dessert between us. We also very much appreciated Mr. Rebolo's treating us to a glass of Port that came with each of our desserts!
Our dinner included:
~ "Sardines Excabaxe" appetizer (not always available) - a portion large enough for two people for $9.95
~ Pasteis de Bacalhau - traditional Portuguese cod fritters - again, large enough for two for $9.25
~ The special of the day, fresh grilled Dorado (the whole fish :-)) ... absolutely delicious and large enough to be shared by two! It reminded us of being back in Portugal! ($30)
~ Bacalhau á Jardinheira -- Pan roasted salted codfish with sweet bell peppers, tomatoes, onions & garlic served with saffron rice. ($25.75)
~ One dessert of the Pasteis de Natas with vanilla ice cream (just $6.50)
~ One dessert of Peras Bêbedas -- a large, poached golden pear in a Port wine & cinnamon sauce AND served with ice cream ($8.25)
All in all, our expectations were exceeded in every respect. Tavira is a quiet, comfortable, friendly restaurant and we look forward to returning very soon.