The simplicity of fresh fish cuisine at Restaurante Sal, on Praia do Carvalhal belies its cosmopolitan guest list. When I lunched there last year, my bare feet squished into the sand, on zesty octopus salad and some of the lightest fried calamari I’ve ever tasted, one of Portugal’s most famous transplants just happened to be sitting at the next table. More impressive still: no one was bothering her.
That vibe is what makes Sal special. Celebrities are treated—by staff and by other diners—no differently from anyone else, and everyone else is treated as if they’re special. And ultimately everyone is there the same thing: stunning views over the beach and sea, local flavors of fresh seafood prepared with the integrity and care of a home cook, relaxed but efficient service, and the sort of relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels like fast friends.
Other standout dishes on the varied menu include black rice with cuttlefish, grilled prawns, picanha, fish soup and bulhão pato clams. Would they taste as good without the Atlantic breeze on your skin and that eye candy in your sight? It’s hard to say. But here, they’re perfect for a leisurely lunch that stretches into the sunset.
For more information, visit the Restaurante Sal website.
Restaurante Sal
Praia do Carvalhal
Carvalhal
Alentejo
Phone: +351 265 490 129
Email: geral@restaurantesal.pt
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 12:30 to 22:00
Photos in post courtesy of Sal
