Where to eat in the Algarve, Portugal

Meu Limao Tapas & Wine Bar  in Lagos

It's always worth that bit of effort if, at the end, you get the rewards.

It's got to be said that actually getting to Meu Limao is currently a trial (May 2008).  Threading through the works on the main drainage system in Lagos near the Golden Chapel, you are more likely to be watching out for holes in the road and the latest diversion to the pavement than a lovely tapas bar where there is always a warm welcome and excellent food.

Meu Limao can be found opposite the Golden Chapel.  Situated on the corner of Rua Silva Lopes, there are only 10 or 12 tables indoors and as the meals are so popular and great value, these are usually occupied.  Outside dining is impossible at the moment, but when the works are finished there is an excellent option to eat al fresco and watch the world go by.

Starters are mainly salads, and what we think are the best soups (vegetable and chicken) in Lagos, at about €3 to €5.

The main menu includes a long list of tapas, just about everything you can think of.  These can be ordered separately at around €5 to €6 each or if you are feeling adventurous and have a big appetite you can have the “chef' selection” of 5, half portion tapas for €12.50.  The selection is usually two meat, two fish and a potato or aubergine tapas, although you won't know what you are getting until it arrives so, beware, if you don't fancy octopus, squid or prawns, it's best to go for your own choice.

Other main courses are available and include enormous mixed meat kebabs (chicken, beef, gammon, chourizo, onions and peppers) served with chips or rice at €10, Chicken and pineapple at €7, steaks and main salad meals all around €7 to €12.

Puddings are a real adventure.  How about fresh strawberry crepes, or chocolate and biscuit ice cream (a sort of home made “vienetta”).  There is quite a range of crepes and mousse (honey, cherry and banana) and other sweets to choose from but they are not cheap at €7 to €12 each.  They are however some of the most extravagant you will find in the Algarve.

Drinks prices are average, beers €1.30 to €3, house wines at €10 to €15, and coffees and cappuccinos at €1.3 to €3.

Cost for the meal depends greatly on what you choose from the menu.  We have eaten there for €22 all in for two, but realistically you are looking at €30+ if you go for the many tempting options.

Meu Limao offers a cosmopolitan feel.  We sat there thinking how lucky we are to speak English.  In Meu Limao there were German, Belgian, Dutch, Portuguese and us; and what language were they all using?  Aren't we lucky.  Meu Limao is on Rua Silva Lopes in Lagos. Tel 282 76 79 46.

Jackie & Tony, May 2008

If you would like to know more about Portuguese Food and Drink, why don't you dip into our Restaurants in the Algarve section and our series of articles on Portuguese Wines and Ports.  We also feature some Traditional Portuguese Recipes and a glossary of useful Portuguese food & drink words and phrases

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