What should I order at Cidade Velha?
Cidade Velha
Octopus
Mentioned multiple times as cooked really well and excellent, praised for its freshness and taste.
Tiborna de Sardinha
Highly recommended as a sophisticated sardines on toast with coriander pesto, described as really delicious.
Lombo de Bacalhao
Praised as a stunning dish with a huge piece of perfectly cooked cod, flaky texture, served with roast potatoes and roasted vegetables, considered the best dish of the stay.
Portuguese Sirloin
Surprise smash hit with flavorful mustard, ham, egg over fried potatoes, highly recommended by a reviewer.
Ovos Rotos
Highlighted as a standout among many shared plates, recommended for sharing.
Fried Crumbs with Prawns (Migos)
Recommended as a highlight dish from the selection of small plates, appreciated for its taste.
Goat Cheese Puffs
Mentioned as excellent starters by reviewers, recommended for their quality and flavor.
White Anchovies on Bread
Highly praised as the best anchovies tasted during a two-week trip, recommended as a must-try.
Tuna Steak
Described as an absolutely amazing and incredibly tasty meal, highly recommended.
Fish Soup
Mentioned multiple times as tasty and fresh, recommended as a starter.
Passion Fruit Cheesecake
Described as one of the best ever had, highly recommended dessert.
Lime Panna Cotta
Praised as the best panna cotta experienced, recommended for dessert.
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About Cidade Velha
Cidade Velha is a Portuguese restaurant in Faro, known for seafood dishes, tapas-style small plates, and a wine list that reviewers say pairs well with the food. Reviewers consistently praise the cataplana, cod dishes, and the attentive service, along with the setting near Faro Cathedral and the option to sit outside or on the rooftop. The restaurant offers dine-in, outdoor seating, reservations, and a price range of €20–40. It is also described as a good place for shared plates, generous portions, and well-presented food.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Rooftop seating
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Private dining room
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Children
- Good for kids
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Cidade Velha known for?
Cidade Velha is best known for cataplana, which reviewers mention most often, along with seafood-focused Portuguese dishes and tapas-style sharing plates. People also repeatedly praise the attentive service and the location near Faro Cathedral, especially when dining outside or on the rooftop.
What dishes are most recommended at Cidade Velha?
Reviewers most often recommend the cataplana, tiborna de sardinha, lombo de bacalhau, and sea bream, with monkfish, octopus, and piri piri chicken also mentioned as strong choices. Other specific favorites include ovos rotos, fried crumbs with prawns, tuna and clams, roasted cod, and desserts like lime panna cotta and passion fruit cheesecake.
What is the atmosphere like at Cidade Velha?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, beautiful, and lively, with outdoor tables in a square near Faro Cathedral and rooftop seating upstairs. It seems to suit couples, groups, and shared meals, since reviewers mention large groups being well handled and the menu working well for picking several small plates to share.
Is Cidade Velha good value, and what is the price range?
The listed price range is €20–40, and reviewers repeatedly describe the food as fairly priced or great value for the quality and freshness. One example was a three-course meal for two with half a bottle of wine for €86, which reviewers felt was reasonable given the generous portions and strong service.
When is the best time to visit Cidade Velha?
Reviewers note that the restaurant can be busy at dinner, but late lunch around 5 pm was calm enough for personalized service and even a cataplana for one. If you want a quieter experience, a late lunch or early evening visit may be easier than peak dinner hours.
Is parking available at Cidade Velha?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking is available.
Does Cidade Velha have vegetarian options?
Yes, Cidade Velha offers vegetarian options.
Is Cidade Velha kid-friendly?
Yes, Cidade Velha is good for kids.
Restaurants like Cidade Velha in Faro
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