Altar

Altar is celebrated as much for its warm and inviting interior decor as it for an inspired menu of traditional Portuguese cuisine. A rustic country kitchen atmosphere permeates throughout this delightful eatery, where the emphasis is on fine food presented in a novel and imaginative fashion. In fact the attention to detail reflects that of the restaurant space, furnished as it is by gilt-framed mirrors, old-fashioned keys, and, oddly, a collection of open books hanging off the walls and ceiling. Reading the menu is to delve into Portugal's culinary heritage, exemplified by fresh fish and seafood, and hearty meat dishes. A favourite seasonal nibble is sardines served on a terracotta plate. The oven-baked octopus or cod remain classic choices. But make sure you leave room for dessert: the vanilla pan cotta with red fruit sauce is a dream!