THE VERY BEST OF THE EAST | ALGARVE ON YOUR PALATE
Vela 2 Santa Margarida, near Tavira Tel: + 351 281 323 661
Known to many who visit us here in Portugal as“ that fish place,” Vela 2 is truly special and a bargain-priced evening out.
Vela 2 recently moved from its bursting premises in Tavira to a more spacious location in the village of Santa Margarida.
The fact that this new“ car-required” location has had no impact on its popularity speaks volumes for the quality of the food on offer.
Aside from a small list beside the front door, Vela 2 doesn’ t really have a menu. After being seated, diners are asked a simple question“ peixe ou carne?”( fish or meat?) Everybody in the know asks for fish.
After potatoes, salad, bread and olives are provided, the fish begins to appear. It could be anything at all but usually includes bream and bass. All is simply cooked on a charcoal grill with plenty of salt. Sometimes, seemingly at random, the selection includes squid and octopus.
If four of us are dining, the first delivery to our table usually consists of around eight flawlessly fresh fish. Once we have devoured approximately half, we are asked if we would like more. The waiting staff bring more fish until we beg them to stop. This is the Vela 2 experience.
This is not a place to expect silver service. Obtaining additional wine requires a concerted effort to gain eye contact at busy times. When the bill arrives, you understand why – this beautiful fish comes at an incredibly low price – around ten euros per person. When one is ready to leave, the bill is calculated in the proprietor’ s head and the final figure scrawled on the paper tablecloth.
As if Vela 2’ s unique way of doing was not already enough, its new location has brought additional charms. The extra space allows the owners to better display their prized collection of Benfica merchandise and the rear terrace now doubles as a place to grow lettuce and tomatoes for the generous bowls of salad.
Vela 2 is both a memorable experience and heart-warming proof that businesses can thrive in tough economic times. The owners deserve their success.
| www. portugal-life. net | Summer 2012 | 31