Porches Velho

Porches Velho Overview

You are not likely to just stumble across Porches Velho. This gem is hidden away in the quaint Algarve village of Porches. But we suggest you add a visit to this restaurant to your holiday plans for the quality of the food and the beautiful setting.

Porches Velho restaurant is housed in a 210 year old wine cellar. The wide entrance leads you into the open plan dining room where your eyes immediately rise to follow the height of the ceiling – just shy of 5 metres! The original wooden beams still crisscross the ceiling and there are latticed windows near to the top to let in the lovely Algarve light.

The décor at Porches Velho is perfectly in keeping with the building. The walls are adorned with traditional blue and white hand painted tiles, rustic farm implements hang from the walls and there is even an old copper distillary, used once upon a time to brew medronho – the local firewater. Another eye-catching feature is the huge aquarium with its collection of brightly coloured fish – some over five years old.

Sr. Candeias, owner of Porches Velho, may be familiar to long time visitors to the Algarve, having spent 25 years fronting the famous A Lanterna restaurant in Parchal. At Porches Velho he continues his tradition of using only quality produce and the menu is rich in portuguese specialities. The fish served at Porches Velho is all fresh sea fish, not farmed. Dishes such as smoked sword fish, fresh fish in the oven, and the medallions of Black Pork with chestnuts and sweet potatoes are among the favourites, as are the Rabbit, fish cataplana and very good steaks. All the desserts served at the Porches Velho are made in its own kitchens following traditional recipes and methods. The restaurant also has a complete wine list with all the Portuguese areas represented.

In the winter the large indoor dining room is made welcoming by the wood fire in the hearth, but in the summer, the terrace is the place of choice. The tranquil country setting, with views back towards the Monchique mountains complements the quality algarvian cuisine. Being such a private and spacious restaurant with plenty of seating both indoors and out, Porches Velho is an ideal venue for groups and celebrations and has hosted several successful wedding receptions.