I recently had the pleasure of dining at A Terra Restaurant, located within the Octant Praia Verde Hotel, and I must say it was an exceptional experience. This restaurant, which is part of a renowned hotel chain with multiple branches in Portugal, focuses on the concepts of family-friendly dining and healthy eating.

Family-friendly dining and healthy eating

Situated near the historic town of Vila Real de Santo António and close to the Spanish border, A Terra Restaurant offers a convenient location for locals and tourists alike. Despite living in Almancil, my family and I found ourselves drawn to this restaurant in the west, even though there is much to explore in our own vicinity.

Upon arrival, we were pleased to find ample free parking right in front of the hotel. Stepping through the main entrance of Octant Praia Verde Hotel, we entered a stylish lounge area that led us to the restaurant. The interior had a trendy and industrial design, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere. One notable feature was the half-open kitchen, seamlessly flowing into a cooking buffet with a large fire oven, allowing guests to witness the skilled chefs in action at all times. Chef David Domingues, who presides over the kitchen, ensures every plate meets the highest standards before it reaches the guests. This attention to detail truly sets this restaurant apart.

Despite the restaurant's luxurious ambiance, we were delighted to see many young families with children in attendance. The presence of children didn't disrupt the serene atmosphere; in fact, they seemed content and peaceful. Moreover, A Terra Restaurant provides a lovely outdoor area that is fully covered, offering a pleasant dining option.

The menu at A Terra Restaurant is extensive, catering to various dietary preferences. It features a wide range of options, including fish, meat, vegan, pizza, and BBQ dishes. Surprisingly, they also offer an extensive children's menu with a vegan option, which is not commonly found in many restaurants.

This commitment to inclusivity and diverse choices impressed us greatly!

Mains from 16 euro.

To begin our dining experience, I opted for a delicious and full-bodied red wine, the Vila Santa Tinto, while my companion enjoyed a refreshing glass of fresh orange juice. Our taste buds were further delighted by the place settings, which included bread accompanied by olive oil and a delightful Portuguese bean hummus. The combination was a delightful start to our meal. For my companion, who follows a gluten-free diet, gluten-free bread was thoughtfully provided.

Moving on to the starters, I indulged in a fantastic salad that I can confidently say was the best salad I have ever tasted. The salad boasted a vibrant array of colors, generously filled with an assortment of nuts, mushrooms, and more. It was a delightful medley of flavors and textures, and at just 5 euros, it was a steal! My companion enjoyed a vegan vegetable soup made from seven different vegetables, which was equally delightful and satisfying.

For the main course, I ventured into the realm of roasted aubergine, accompanied by sautéed mushrooms, fresh herbs, pumpkin, and carrot puree. As someone who is not particularly fond of aubergine, I was pleasantly surprised by how fantastic this dish turned out. The flavors were harmonious, and I can confidently say that it is a dish I would gladly be woken up for. My companion opted for lentils with grilled cauliflower, and while the flavors were enjoyable, they felt that the dish was slightly undercooked, which hindered the blending of flavors.

When it came time for dessert, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and ordered an avocado-based treat. Avocado is not typically associated with desserts in my mind, often being reserved for avocado toast or cocktails. However, the avocado tartlet, infused with lime and coconut, accompanied by sorbet ice cream and a mint dressing, was a revelation. It was a unique and delicious combination that I thoroughly enjoyed. On the other hand, my companion, who adores red fruits, chose the refreshing watermelon, which was a perfect choice to conclude the meal on a light and refreshing note.

Beyond the culinary delights, what truly made our experience exceptional was the company and the fantastic staff who clearly enjoy working together. The positive and friendly atmosphere was infectious, and it was evident that A Terra Restaurant has no trouble attracting and retaining talented staff members.

Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend A Terra Restaurant. From the fine food to the fantastic ambiance and friendly service, it is a dining experience that stands out. Whether you are seeking a family-friendly establishment, a menu with diverse options, or simply a delightful culinary adventure, A Terra Restaurant at Octant Praia Verde Hotel is the place to be. Don't miss out on this gem in the Almancil region of Portugal.