Onze

Name of establishment

Onze, Carvoeiro

Style

Modern-minimalist restaurant and bar that spells urban chic: glass tables, cubist chairs on the decked terrace, neutral walls adorned with striking photography, funky wine racks...you get the picture.

The food

Modern Mediterranean, with a distinct nod in the direction of Greece and Italy: calamari with tzatziki, souvlaki, saganaki or horiatiki (Greek salad) for starters, pasta and pizza for mains. There’s also a good choice of salads, fish, seafood and meat dishes, and some tempting desserts.

The drink

Extensive range of Portuguese wines, and a well-written wine list, divided up into types (eg fruity, aromatic, complex, etc) and with detailed tasting notes.

Plus the usual choice of beers, spirits, cocktails and soft drinks.

Why do you like it?

Good quality international cuisine when you fancy a change from traditional Portuguese fare, sensibly priced, friendly and knowledgeable owner, and a great view over the old town and the beach.

When to go

It’s popular at night with the in-crowd, but with that view, it’s a shame not to enjoy it over a long, leisurely lunch.

Insider knowledge

Seating on the terrace is quite limited, so book in advance at busy times of the year.

There’s a small cocktail bar area at the back with a TV screen, although it’s more likely to be showing pop videos than the football.

What could be improved?

The website needs work - a lot of the information is out of date.

Location

Perched overlooking the main square. If you’re facing the sea, walk up the hill that’s on your left. Look out for the distinctive logo (and the fact that it’s number 11, hence the name). Parking is best down the hill, but it’s tricky in most places in Carvoeiro, so good luck!

Address: Rampa da Sra. da Encarnacao 11, 8400 LGA - Carvoeiro.

Cost

Sample starters: Calamari with tzatziki (€5.50), souvlaki (€5.50), saganaki (€6), mushrooms with gorgonzola (€6).

Sample salads: Horiatiki (€8), Chicken with chicory, dates and almonds (€10).

Pasta dishes from €10.

Pizzas from €9.

Sample fish and seafood dishes: Octopus (€13), Monkfish, prawns and salmon kebab (€16), Sea bass (€24).

Sample meat dishes: Chicken curry (€14), lamb (€19), rib-eye steak (€17).

Sample desserts: Tiramisu (€5), chocolate cake (€5.50).

Unless you're really splashing out, most wines are sensibly priced in the €9-€21 range.

Opening times

Tuesday to Sunday from 1pm-11pm.

Closed Mondays.