Mar De Santa Maria - Faro

The other main restaurant on this island was full, so mistakenly we ended up here. On entering there were only a few tables of people.we ordered sardines, house wine and water. They put bread , tiny pot of olives and carrots and pate/butter. We waited ages (over 30 mins) for our 6 sardines so we cleared the olives, bread and I even had a little pate (not fresh). Three of the tables also were complaining regarding the wait, 1 table walked out, whilst the one behind us threatened to walk out in 5 mins if food not served. Whilst the waitress was trying her best she was unable to open the wine, so a waiter helped her and we were served “corked” wine. The sardines were ok (can’t go wrong with cooking these) and potato and chopped salad was ok, but not my favourite. Sardines were €12.50 each and wine was €12.50 water €1.50 so bill roughly should have been around about €39 so when it was €8.50 more, I was shocked that for bread, olives and pate came to €8,50 just a rip off! I eat out in restaurants all over portugal, never do 1 pay this amount for starter bits unless it’s a better class of restaurant ie. not plastic tables and chairs. So be warned, the wait for food could be so you eat the picky bits! Not a place I would revisit in a hurry ... lesson learnt!

Had lunch here while on a day trip to Farol, had grilled mackerel which were tasty and fresh and a side of potatoes, husband had chips and bbq chicken and 2 waters, bill came to over €30, surprised as portions were small! Food was good but expensive I felt for what we got!

One of group commented that the sea bass was the best fish he had ever had. My monkfish was amazing. Excellent cheap wine. The few waitresses were literally running between tables as they were so busy and once they realised we weren't happy with the service it got better. 100 euros for 4, with wine and fish that was as fresh as it can be.

I've eaten here a couple of times, it's a bit of a dive , but the food is good and fresh and it's reasonable. Amazing for a european beach restaurant

Unfortunately, we didn't have the time to have lunch. Our boat tour stop was only for 1 hour. People in the restaurant very friendly and welcoming. Great coffee