Restaurante Cepa Velha — Restaurant in Albufeira

We visited Restaurante Cepa Velha after it was highly recommended for its food, warm setting, and traditional Portuguese music. It seemed like the perfect place for our family — especially for us, Portuguese expats, wanting to share live music and cultural traditions with our children who barely speak Portuguese.

The evening began promisingly: a lively atmosphere, and promise of good food. Unfortunately, the dining experience quickly went downhill.

For starters, we ordered a family favorite — Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (x2). The first platter was fine with only minor traces of sand, but the second platter was unacceptable: the sauce was gritty with sand at the bottom, and several clams themselves were full of it. This usually happens when clams are not rinsed properly before cooking.

My husband waited patiently for our server to return but, as they were busy, he went to the counter and politely explained (in broken Portuguese) that the clams were full of sand and could not be eaten. Moments later, the manager/owner — who is also part of the band — returned with the same platter. In a shocking display, he began eating the clams right in front of my husband’s face, rudely insisting: “There is nothing wrong, it’s normal for clams to have sand, they are fresh. You don’t know because you are English.”

At that point, it was clear we were not being listened to, only dismissed. We decided to cut our evening short. But before we could leave, the owner returned again and asked if there was “anything else.” I calmly explained, in Portuguese, that there was indeed an issue, and even demonstrated the amount of sand in the sauce. His earlier assumption — that we were “English” — had made him completely ignore what was actually said, and instead he chose to be rude and disrespectful.

His response: “There is nothing wrong. There is no charge and you can go.” We agreed.

Before leaving, my daughter went to the bathroom. On the way out, the owner intercepted me again, this time trying to justify himself by saying it was not sand but coarse salt, that the clams were fresh and local, and that he only reacted that way to avoid disturbing other customers. He then asked us to stay and enjoy the rest of the evening.

I stopped him there and told him directly: this was not about clams, freshness, or salt. It was about his rudeness, bigotry, and condescension. I am Portuguese, as is my whole family, and I cook Amêijoas, regularly. These clams were not cleaned properly, period. Instead of addressing the issue respectfully, he dismissed us, mocked us, and told us to leave if we weren’t happy.

As such, we cancelled our mains, and the cost of starters and drinks was rightly their burden, as he had insisted. We left and will not...

A cosy fadonight in Albufeira. I think I was the only tourist that night, so it is a very local place, with very few tourists. First the food. A very well made rabbit in redwinesauce together with a glass of red Alentejo. Perfect match. And then for dessert, the cake of the house with a glass of tawny port. You could really taste that it was homemade with love. The price was lower than in the old town, and the quality was better. Then the music. The musician had been together for 35 years, so they know there business. First part they played traditional Portuguese folksongs. The second part they played the fadomusic as you really could feel the soul of Portugal. Bravo. Almost all conversation with the audience was in Portuguese. The first pictures was before the concert. As the music started there was almost occupied. Remember the following. They only make fadonight on the thursday, and...

This gem of a restaurant offers more than just a meal - it's a delightful experience. The staff's warmth and genuine kindness make you feel like a welcomed guest, not just a customer. The owner's personal touch adds to the inviting atmosphere.

The food is a true highlight - every dish I tried was expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. It's clear they use quality ingredients and take pride in their culinary craft.

Thursday nights are special, with typical nice music adding a perfect backdrop to the dining experience. It creates a lively yet comfortable ambiance that complements the excellent food and service.

Whether you're looking for a casual dinner or a special night out, this restaurant delivers on all fronts - delicious food, exceptional service, and a charming atmosphere. It's become my new...