SOME CHARMINGLY renovated roadside cottages are now home to a delightfully decorated restaurant, Museu dos Salgados, about 1km from Salgados Golf Club, west of Albufeira Marina on the way to Armação de Pêra.
Terracotta and buttermilk walls complement the traditional stone work and archways; the sumptuous furnishings and wrought iron furniture give the restaurant a modern but rustic feel.
The welcome from Sérgio and his staff was very warm. Rui, the head-chef, happily explained his menu and told us of his time spent in Switzerland gaining his vast experience and learning his culinary skills.
Freshly made bread and a selection of hams, salamis and olives tempt you before trying a selection of delicious hot and cold starters, including gratinée goats cheese with honey, a smoked fish platter or freshly made onion soup.
The choice of main courses is large and varied, and all tastes are catered for. With a large selection of fish, the monkfish medallions in a saffron sauce were outstanding. You can also enjoy freshly made filled pastas, black pork, steaks and a very interesting fondue with beef served with a large selection of fruits.
The dessert menu could not be overlooked. Pannacotta with wild red fruits, creamy and smooth, with just a little sharpness from the fruit, was the perfect choice to finish off this memorable meal.
Museu dos Salgados is open for lunch from 12pm to 3pm, and dinner from 6.30pm to 11pm. The restaurant is closed on Mondays. Call 289 571 686 for reservations. R.D.
