Restaurante Pôr Do Sol — Restaurant in Portimão

This review is critical compared to most other reviews, so it’s possible we hit the restaurant on an off night.

On the positive side, it’s a lovely setting and a classy atmosphere.

The negative for us was the food was actually below average. We were told by friends the rack of lamb is fabulous, and as it’s unusual to see that on a menu, that’s what we ordered. The meat was very tender and the herb garlic sauce was very good, but the meat was cooked very uneven. We ordered medium rare but 1/3 was medium, 1/3 medium rare (perfect), but 1/3 was so rare it wasn’t really cooked at all in the center. Also, we are on a special diet (diabetic) so we don’t eat potatoes. It’s the first time we’ve dined anywhere that didn’t have any alternative. We love vegetables, so that was ok except the vegetables that come with it are very overcooked frozen carrots and a bit of frozen broccoli. (Maybe they weren’t frozen but they were mushy and tasteless.)

Our starters were the French onion soup and seafood cream soup. Both were underwhelming. The seafood soup had a few small bits of shrimp in a mild tomato cream. The French onion was mostly onions with very little cheese, and very watery.

When paying the check, it’s the first time ever that a waiter asked for a tip to be added. We usually tip cash on the table but the way we were being asked for a tip was so off putting, we said no. He actually asked a second time, which was shocking to us.

Overall it was just a bad choice for us, compared to so many great restaurants in the area...

Our family of four, 2 adults and 2 children (11 & 15) turned up at this beautiful restaurant purely by accident because the restaurant we tried to go to (Big Red) was all shut down. So glad we did, we had a wonderful time and the food was marvellous. My husband and I had a starter of fish soup, flavours was lovely. Fillet steak, Chicken in Mushroom Sauce and the Sole all delighted are tastebuds. My daughter loved the Lemon Meringue Pie and my son loved watching them make the Crepe Suzette which he happily polished off his plate. My husband and I finished off our meal with an Espresso Martini, yummy.We were very well looked after by all the waiters and their outdoor seating area was a wonderful backdrop for photo's. As the evening began to get a bit chilly the waiter bought my daughter a very soft blanket to wrap around her to keep the chill off, I have never known service like this it was second to none. If you are in the Alvor this restaurant is a must if you want to experience Portugal...

Por do Sol is a dining experience that effortlessly blends ambiance, service, and cuisine into a memorable evening. From the moment you step through the door, the welcoming atmosphere and subtle elegance of the decor set the tone for what can only be described as a culinary journey.

The menu is thoughtfully curated, offering a balance between creative innovation and comforting familiarity. Each dish feels purposeful—crafted with high-quality ingredients and a clear vision.

Service was impeccable—attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable without pretense. The staff made excellent wine pairing suggestions and anticipated needs with grace.

The prices reflect the quality, and for a special occasion or a night when you simply want to treat yourself, Por do Sol delivers outstanding value. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just someone who appreciates good food and good company, this restaurant deserves a spot on your...