Recommended Restaurant -
"Mama Chicken's"

by Brian
(London, UK)

The town of Silves is the former capital of the Algarve and is steeped in history. This is a great place for a day out sightseeing. No beaches (it's nice to have a day away from the beach, occasionally; it's inland, about 30 mins drive from Armação de Pêra beach) but is situated on the Arade river and you can take boat trips from Portimao to Silves.

A must-see is the castle and the battlements, and in August/September there is usually a mediaeval fiesta that is extremely good entertainment. But, be warned; it is quite hilly away from the riverfront.

There are many restaurants and shops but a must is CHURRASQUEIRA VALDEMAR, a small, friendly, family-owned grilled chicken restaurant. No menus, no frills - just good chicken, chips (fries) and salad; vinho tinto (or branco white if you prefer), beer and various soft drinks.

We have been going there for years, and we nicknamed it "Mama Chicken's" after the larger-than-life matriarch that ran it. Unfortunately, if you never had the pleasure of meeting her, you never will as, sadly, she passed away earlier this year. However, the chicken is still the best in the Algarve and you won't regret eating there.

Churrasqueira Valdemar, Mercado Municipal, 11, Silves 8300, Portugal
Tel: 282443138