Columbus — Restaurant in Faro

My wife and I for many years have stayed in Faro. Not only did we look forward to our breaks in Portugal but visiting the Columbus bar was part of the holiday we looked forward to. What on earth has happened. We noticed things changing on the previous visit but things have gone from bad to worse. Once a magical place with expert bar staff who knew all there was to know, comfortable cushions and seating and fantastic drinks but now young staff who have little training if any, plastic seats and zero atmosphere. We ordered our usual drinks, Vintage Gin and tonic, the young man took our order but was unclear what this drink was, went away and then came back and asked again. The drinks came out much faster than usual but what should have been a clear drink (and in the past slices of lime with lots of floating herbs ) we were presented with an opaque drink no sliced lime and a single mint leaf. When we asked another member of staff why was it opaque she said that was lime juice from a bottle that the staff squeezed earlier to save on time ! I took a sip and there was little Gin in this drink if any, and I guess that the tonic came from a hose dispenser with the lime juice a bought in concentrate form . I have to say we complained and left, never to return. The drinks are not cheap but we were happy to pay for the experience in the past. As a company director I can spot businesses cutting corners whilst trying to maximise profits. No one is sadder than us that such a magical place has turned into a third rate bar that cannot be bothered to slice lime. Next time we visit Faro I wouldn't be surprised if the Columbus...

I was in Portugal for about 20 days, and unfortunately, this was the first place that made me feel unwelcomed.

We had just arrived from Lagos, had a lovely meal and some Spritz at a different restaurant, and went for a walk. Still wearing my flip-flops, we decided to have a few cocktails at this place, which seemed good according to the reviews.

We sat outside and ordered two cocktails, mine was a Smoke Tiki as per the waiter's recommendation, and it was quite good.

We then ordered a second cocktail, and this time, although I understood it as a joke, I felt a bit uneasy when the waiter told me I was basic for preferring the Asia Mohito over the one she recommended. I laughed, and proceeded with my business, however, when the second drink arrived, I was immediately asked to pay. Of course, without hesitation, I asked to pay with a card, a total of 42 euros for 4 cocktails.

I couldn't see anyone else around us receiving such treatment, but I didn't take that as a big problem. Later, when discussing it with my girlfriend, she felt quite annoyed. She mentioned she felt watched the whole time we were at that place, and being asked to pay just confirmed that prejudice.

We were not dressing fancy; this is sort of a bay bar, and I am uncertain if that was the reason we were treated like that. All I can say is that it was a bummer. Although pricey, the cocktails were not bad, but the service did disappoint. I would not recommend this place as it does not live up to the good service found in...

Our 7-night break in Faro turned out to be a culinary delight having discovered this bar in the town. The welcome on arrival was warm and friendly and we decided to sit inside in one of the curved booths. 'Imelson' was our charming server and we decided to have some beers (served wonderfully cold) and a couple of sharing plates. The first was the mushroom risotto - simply the best we ever tasted - and the slow-cooked pork with fries. Incredibly soft and delicious, these two dishes were exquisitely presented and delivered in all respects. The meal was so good that we reserved a table for the following 5 nights and ate a different meal each time. The ambience of this bar/restaurant is excellent; a chilled vibe with excellent decor and perfect music to help you relax with friends for drinks and food. You will see some of the dishes captured in pictures attached to this review. A very special Thank You to ALL the staff who were, without exception, superb. But we would like to call out especially, 'Imelson' and ‘Beatrix’ (I am sorry if I spelled the names incorrectly) who were especially attentive. This is a must-visit venue and is highly recommended during any visit to Faro. We...