Restaurante Tabernassa — Restaurant in Nazaré

My husband and I visited Tabernassa on March 17, 2025 after reading reviews and checking out the menu before we made our trek across the ocean. We were NOT disappointed. Having stopped earlier in the day to inquire about reservations, we left our names with Paulo, the head waiter. Walked in at 7pm and he remembered both our names and greeted us with hugs and the friendliest smile I have ever seen. Paulo suggested several wines and immediately started us with olives, cheese and bread. My husband and I decided to share two different dishes, and Paulo brought them out one by one so that we could enjoy each separately and to the fullest. We were delighted first with the Braised Tuna, served with a sweet potato puree and fresh steamed vegetables. Our second dish was the beautifully, perfectly cooked National Loin with a port wine sauce. We chose two sides, the rustic potatoes (fancy French fries) and the cherry tomato salad. Our bottle of wine was incredibly paired with all of this and was just as beautiful as the food. And to end this unforgettable meal, we shared the Salted Caramel Cheesecake - the BEST cheesecake either of us has ever tasted. Unlike the cheesecake we are familiar with, this is was light, fluffy, and melted in my mouth. And to our surprise, when we received the bill, it was a fraction of what we'd pay for this meal in the states. For American newbies to Portugal, this was shocking. And though it didn't make the evening, it was a nice icing on the cake moment. To anyone considering making a visit to this very quaint, beautiful restaurant, please do not hesitate. It does not disappoint! And it was very clear to see that Paulo is very loved, not only with his staff but with the patrons who know him. We ended our visit with Paulo with more hugs, kisses on each cheek, and a promise of a visit...

This was honestly one of the nicest meals we had during our vacation - but there are a few things I’d like to point out.

The service was a bit inconsistent. We interacted with about four different staff members, and each gave us a completely different experience.

One young woman was especially helpful - she kindly explained everything that was brought to the table, including the items we didn’t ask for. She let us know that if we didn’t want them, we could send them back and wouldn’t be charged, which is great, since in many restaurants you might assume they’re complimentary when they’re not. Then there was an older man who was unfortunately a bit grumpy and not very pleasant - he made us uncomfortable. On the other hand, a younger gentleman working there seemed a bit reserved but was polite and professional. Lastly, another older man stood out for being incredibly warm and friendly - he really elevated the whole experience with his positive attitude and humor. Thanks to him we left in a good mood.

So overall, three out of four staff members were very nice, and the mixed service experience seemed to depend on who happened to be helping you.

As for the food, we were pleasantly surprised, especially with the portion sizes, which were more generous than in many other places we tried. The vegetable sides were flavorful, and the soup we ordered was delicious. While the food itself wasn’t the most unique or mind-blowing we’ve ever had, it was well-presented, tasty, and comforting.

Considering the portion sizes, taste, staff attention, and the overall look of the place, it was very satisfying for the price. If you’re in Nazare, I’d say this is definitely one of the better options around - just keep in mind that the experience might vary slightly depending...

Cosy and nice place. But - they did not bring us table water, but for other tables they did. They did not offer for us anything to drink, even a drinks menu. We had to ask. Also they did not offer any desserts, which we would have taken, but for other they did. And all the time we were kind, so it was strange. Our table was served by 4 people, but just 1 talked in English.

We waited for so long to pay, we looked at a server, but zero action.. then we just went to ask, because all the time we felt that we were forgotten.

Also, about the food. Soup was simple, but wonderful, also starters - very liked that, and non alcohol mohito - super! But main dish, codfish was sooooo salty, that we could not finish eating. And also with not logical amount of onions on the top. We noticed the note in the menu that we have to say if sth is wrong, so we decided to tell about fish experience to personal. But they told us that they dont have fresh fish, just salted one, they just gets like that. And thats ok, i ate not fresh fish, so so so salty. And they also said that is okay that salt thing. But this time it was really to salty.

For apology, that we appreciate, they brought us an alcohol shots, but they knew that we took alcohol free drinks, so they could have asked.. I felt bad that we had to left it, bet we dont drink alcohol for this time..

I am so sorry, that I am telling this, but ambiance was great wxcept the service...