If I have to make a choice between to dine or to lunch, the latter often wins. That's what I like about Portugal, or other southern countries, they take lunching (almoço) out very seriously.
2 Passos (pronounce Dos Passos) is another lunch gem just behind the beach at Praia do Anção. So, settle in the morning on the beach (beds) and take a long walk to increase the appetite.
'New look' for 2 Passos
For over 30 years this place is a landmark at the Algarvian coast. I remember the first time eating grilled fish here, some 25 years ago. Then a low key local place, more a bar than a restaurant but with great seafood.
Founded by a Portuguese/Dutch couple (the
Passos Family
- retired and into making olive oil now) the restaurant 2 Passos is now run by the second generation, so a real family business.
Over the last 30 years the restaurant has changed looks a few times with the last huge renovation in 2015. With a surprising
Scandic looking minimalistic wooden place as result. A complete rebuilt which one would rather expect along one of the many waterways outside Stockholm than at the Algarvean beach side. I like its sophisticated style although I do miss the Portuguese characteristic charm from before.
Due to new infrastructure plans by the authorities, they had to rebuilt to ensure security towards the erosive tendency of the dune system. So higher on its legs this time which means more sea views!
Seafood on the 2 Passos menu
What stayed the same is
food and staff, Portuguese characteristics which enhance each other. Try to get a seat in Christina's or Fatima's area, they both are always in a good mood and take great care. And do take the couvert, I fancy the little bowls with fresh chopped garlic (!!), sea salt, tapenade and olive oil that accompany the home baked bread and toasts.
The menu is based on Mediterranean and Regional Portuguese food, it's all about freshness from the sea sourced daily from the local markets.
My routine starts with
amêijoas à Bulhâo Pato to share, clams sautéed in olive oil, garlic, fresh parsley & broth. This really is my number one favorite Portuguese dish.
After that the signature 2 Passos Tiger Prawns -
camerão tigre as Passos. Again think garlic, herbs and oil with some chili. Delicious! Served with boiled potatoes in the skin or with the house specialty brown rice with ketjap and raisins. For me, two of those prawns is the perfect number together with the broadbeans salad (salada de favas from the starters menu).
Also new is the lounge rooftop terrace with spectacular sea views. Perfect spot to have your
bica after lunch or a drink after a relaxing day at the beach. For those into alcohol, me not, this space screams gin tonic.
Downside is that the acoustics can be poor due to glass windows all around. Although some olive trees are added inside and that helps. Try a table along the sides and slide the floor-to-ceilings glass windows open for a bit of sea breeze and sea views. This is not a cheap place (compared to the many 7,50 euro
prato de dia local lunch spots) but worth every penny. Enjoy a long, long lunch together with friends. That's all the food you need for today!
reservations recommended | menu
