O VIOLAS — Tapas & Bed

(This is a review for the adjacent Tapas bar - we didn't stay in the hotel.)\ We came to Praia de Mira out of season, on a wet and windy December day - how lucky we were to stumble across O Violas, on a little side street behind the beach. What a great find! The hosts (a really lovely Portuguese couple, both artists) looked after us like family members - they couldn't have been more attentive, kind and considerate. They rustled up an utterly delicious vegan meal (off-menu, with no warning) made with super-fresh, high quality ingredients (cep mushrooms, avocado, home-made bread), all prepared with care and beautifully presented. The space is simply but tastefully furnished, with some lovely touches (such as a selection of books and games to borrow, if the weather encourages you to stay indoors a little longer). There's even a little art gallery adjacent to the restaurant, with some lovely pieces for sale. We really can't recommend this place highly enough!