Cozinha da Avó Carminha, located in Portimão, in the Algarve, stands out for its seafood prices, with values that deviate from the usual standards in the region and that have led many customers to look more closely at the menu. In addition to the prices, there is also a family story that supports the concept and explains the identity of the space.
According to the restaurant’s website, A Cozinha da Avó Carminha was born in 2024 as an initiative built on the experience accumulated over years in the restaurant sector. The objective was to transform an old habit of cooking for others into a structured project open to the public.
Grandmother Carminha is the founder of the project
The central figure of this space is Maria Faria, known as Vovó Carminha, with more than 20 years of experience in the kitchen and hotel industry. Over time, he consolidated a trajectory linked to traditional Portuguese gastronomy, working in several restaurants and hotels.
Despite living in the Algarve, the cook’s origins go back to Barcelos, which ends up influencing the way she approaches the kitchen. This connection between the regions translates into an approach that crosses references from the north and south of the country, maintaining a traditional base.
Daughter also participates
It is worth highlighting that the project is developed together with his daughter, Ana Freire, responsible for management, image and communication. This collaboration between generations made it possible to structure the concept and give it a broader dimension, while maintaining a close and familiar logic.
It is in the seafood menu that the restaurant, which has been in existence for around four years, has attracted the most interest, mainly due to the prices presented. Cockles appear with prices around 7.50 euros, while mussels remain in the same range, contrasting with what is usual to find in coastal areas. It is also important to highlight that, if you make your table reservation at The Fork, you will have access to a 30% discount on the entire menu. This means that a dose of cockles now costs 5.25 euros.
There is seafood at ‘old’ prices
Other options include shells in season for around 12.50 euros (8.75 euros with a discount), razor clams for similar prices and clams for a slightly higher price. There are also dishes such as fried shrimp with garlic for around 16.50 euros (11.55 euros with a discount) and prawn with sweet and sour sauce for around 14.50 euros (10.15 euros with a discount).
The offer also extends to seafood by the kilo, upon order, including species such as crab, spider crab or navalheiras. The menu is complemented with simple options, such as bread, olives and butter, maintaining a proposal in line with informal and affordable meals.
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