Chefe Branco

Chefe Branco is a Portuguese seafood restaurant at Rua de Loulé 9 in the old centre of Faro, in the Algarve region of Portugal, a short walk from the pedestrian Rua de Santo António. It serves the traditional coastal cooking that defines the region, with an emphasis on fish and shellfish prepared in familiar, unfussy ways. Reviewers mention the cataplana, the Algarve's signature steamed seafood stew cooked in a copper clam-shaped pan, and grilled fish, usually the day's catch served with boiled potatoes and salad. These two dishes are the best guide for first-time visitors. Mains are priced at about €12-18 (roughly $14-21), which keeps the restaurant in the moderate $$ range and makes it good value for a centrally located sit-down meal. The atmosphere is that of a straightforward neighbourhood restaurant, informal and unhurried, with no dress code and a moderate noise level. It suits couples, families and small groups wanting a simple local meal after exploring the old town, the cathedral and the marina. The drinks list follows Portuguese convention, with regional house wines, beer, water and coffee. No opening hours are confirmed in the available listing, so visitors should call +351 289 807 584 before going. Reservations are not specified as required, but a call is wise for dinner at weekends and in July and August, when Faro's restaurants fill with visitors flying into the nearby airport. The restaurant has a website at chefebranco.com for further information. Parking is nearby at Largo de São Francisco, a practical note since the streets in the old centre are narrow and partly pedestrianised. The central location makes it easy to fit into a walking day through Faro's historic quarter.