Urban Grill — Restaurant in Portimão

很普通…不知道是不是质量不统一，套餐里的鸡肉很老。 I visited this restaurant in July this year. As a rather tolerant diner, I felt that the overall experience did not match the price.

First, the server who welcomed us was very friendly at the beginning. However, when I politely asked for help to pack up the leftovers and requested a bag (we had three takeaway boxes of different sizes), perhaps because it was getting close to closing time (though there were still a few tables occupied), the server’s attitude noticeably became colder and somewhat impatient. In the end, we were only given a crumpled plastic bag to barely fit our food in.

Secondly, regarding the food: we were very hungry and ordered appetizers, chicken breast, and a steak set. The presentation was indeed beautiful, but the chicken was far too dry, and the steak was just of very NORMAL taste and texture. We came here based on recommendations, but the overall food quality did not justify the price.

There was also a small incident: as foreign guests, while we were dining we noticed people at the next table making comments about what we ordered and even snickering, with unmistakably unfriendly looks. Their unfriendly looks were so obvious that I couldn’t help but notice, though these petty and mean people became ashamed once I caught their eyes and stared back.🤪

This little episode is not the main reason for my review, but overall, I think three and a half stars would be a...

19 February, 2025 My wife and I had an impromptu late lunch here today; one of the best decisions we have made during our month in the Algarve. We were swiftly escorted to a lovely table by James, one of the twin brothers who are waitstaff at the Urban Grill. They were animated, warm, knowledgeable. There was a smooth, yes, "urban" vibe in the decor, the unhurried pace, in the whole place. The printed menu, which cleverly was also the placemat, was clear, concise, direct. The wine list, a separate booklet, was extensive, showcasing the wines of Portugal; all regions. Our Alentejo tinto was full bodied, with a smooth finish. Of course, the centerpiece is the meat, namely beef. There are several options of mixed grills; we chose the all Angus beef, a number of different cuts. The meats arrived on a wooden platter, overflowing. All perfectly seasoned, medium rare; great umami. Along with the beef, were probably the best chips/French fries I have ever tasted. Really, truly. We decided to share the housemate panna cotta; creamy, smooth, delicate. If you ever find yourself in the Algarve, in Portimao, go ahead, treat...

Nice and efficient waiting staff, good ambience except for the music: we were there for just over an hour and must have heard the same songs (by Lionel Richie, Foreigner, Kenny Rogers, Chicago, Elton John...) two or three times each. Please get a playlist with more than 10 songs! The food? Portions were generous, but the execution was average to mediocre at best. I had the mixed grill, most of the meat was overcooked and poorly seasoned, and the chicken breast was bone dry, so dry you can hardly swallow it without drinking after each bite. The only gluten free dessert they offer is a mango mousse, more like a "mango miss" if you ask me: the texture was like jello, nothing close to a mousse. We were here a year ago and had such an wonderful dinner, a year later the food was so disappointing and the repetitive music so annoying... Sadly,...