Mavala Osteria Italiana — Restaurant in Faro

Mavala Osteria is the cosiest restaurant I have ever been to - the dining room is dimly lit, full of paintings and with an atmosphere that feels like home away from home. They are very friendly and passionate. You can feel their brimming enthusiasm when you ask for descriptions of their menu :) The kitchen is almost open, and the waft coming from there is just phenomenal. They were my close neighbours for a couple of weeks, and of course, I fell in love with their pasta and kept coming back for it. How couldn´t I? I have a feeling they fill these ravioli with sous-vide pumpkin, and douse it in a butter sauce with fresh sage. So simple and so amazing. They cook high-quality food from scratch and have a very authentic and humble approach to cooking and plating food. You can feel the care and pleasure they put into their food, making for a memorable experience at this place. I am no longer in Faro and I wish they were not so far away. I would like to return. Don't miss an opportunity to eat their food - they...

An absolute gem! We had an incredible dinner at Mavala — hands down one of the best Italian meals we've had in a long time. The hospitality was outstanding from the moment we walked in. The waiter was exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable, taking the time to explain every dish in detail and even recommending the best options based on what we liked. It felt like dining among friends.

The food? Simply amazing. This is real, authentic Italian cuisine — pure, honest, and full of flavor. Everything was homemade, from the delicate ravioli to the rich cheeses. You could truly taste the care and craftsmanship in every bite.

It genuinely felt like being in Italy — not just because of the food, but because of the warm atmosphere and the passion everyone in the restaurant brings to what they do. Compliments to the chef for creating such delicious dishes. The quality was outstanding, and the entire experience was unforgettable.

We can’t recommend Mavala enough. If you’re in Faro and love Italian food, this...

Superb.

You will miss out on a top notch culinary experience if you do not go. Chef could have a Michlin star.

Chef really cares about everyone having a wonderful experience and loving the food. It is delicious. Top notch. Quality. They are attentive.

They change their menu about twice per week and work with fresh ingredients.

They have a tasting menu that is 100% worth it. Given the quality and presentation, the food could totally have a Michlin star.

Don't miss out on this hidden gem! :)

Also, it doesn't have to be expensive, you can order an amazing pasta dish for 14 euros!:)

Grazie mille!

P.S. Had a most wonderful lambrusco that was not sweet and dark like red wine. Amazing. Best of both worlds (bubbles and red). Hadn't had such a good one for years.

P.P.S. Also lovely appropriate Italian music in the background, not too loud, not soo soft, perfectly period piece.

P.P.P.S I forgot to take some pictures as I was so in...