Restaurants and Cafés

When passing by Ourique to the south you can see a road sign pointing out a detour to Nossa Senhora da Cola, Castro da Cola (archaeological circuit) and Restaurant. For those who enjoy a good meal you must follow it till you get to the restaurant Castro da Cola in order to taste the traditional dishes of Alentejo and at the same time, enjoy the calm and beautiful landscape. The restaurant is located in a place of myths close to the Shrine of Our Lady of Cola and one of the most important archaeological sites in the country, Castro da Cola, on a slope on the river Mira. The premises are very cosy, both in the main room with the white walls, fireplace, embroidered tablecloths and an intimate atmosphere and in the lounge, looking outward, bright, cheerful and relaxed. It is discrete place but full of charm.  

The cuisine is based on the flavours of Alentejo. There are a number of suggestions you can start your meal with: cured ham, Alentejo pork paio sausage, crackling, pig’s ear with coriander, sheep’s cheese, soft cheese with pumpkin jam or with honey. Then, there are two unavoidable fish options, which are Alentejo-style bacalhau açorda with eggs and dogfish soup, and a longer list of meat suggestions, such as lamb stew, which is an ode to Alentejo given its simplicity and the abundance of aromas and flavours, the chickpea dinner that is another challenge to the senses, Alentejo-style migas with fried pork and free range chicken rice cooked in blood, among other typical dishes, all made with good regional produce, well-prepared and well-presented.  Top quality traditional desserts! A good selection of Alentejo wines!