Portugal Adventures

On a recent visit to Portugal, after a breathtaking day exploring the vibrant city of Lagos, we stumbled upon a cozy little restaurant tucked away from the busier streets. It was small, with only five or ten tables spaced generously apart, creating a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The green walls, wicker lampshades, and large potted tropical plants gave the space a calming, earthy vibe. Through the windows, we’d spotted an adorable white puppy lounging with its family, so we felt confident bringing along Tully, Martha’s tiny English Dachshund. Once seated, Martha lifted Tully from her backpack, and the charm of the evening began.

Almost immediately, Tully became the star of the restaurant. Fellow diners stopped by to fawn over her, and the server brought her a little bowl of water, welcoming her as though she were just another cherished guest. It set the tone for what would become one of the most memorable meals of this trip.

We shared three tapas dishes, each crafted with care and bursting with creativity. There was a unique Caesar salad, a flavorful shrimp rice and spinach dish, and a tender steak plate with small bites of sirloin in a savory sauce. Every bite was divine, but what truly captured my heart were the cucumbers. Their flavor took me back to my childhood—they tasted just like the sweet pickles my grandmother used to make. When I asked the server about them, she smiled and said even they didn’t know the recipe; it came from a local maker who guards the secret closely. That mystery only added to the magic of the meal.

The wine was another highlight—crisp, dry, and among the best I’ve ever tasted. Portuguese wines are now firmly on my list of favorites. As the evening wound down, a young couple from Scotland seated at the next table surprised us with an unexpected gesture. They had ordered the restaurant’s Christmas dinner, which ended with a generous spread of cheese, fruit, and Portuguese pastries. They offered to share it with us, and when we invited them to join our table, the evening truly transformed.

Together, we finished the wine, savored the dessert, and exchanged stories. She was a businesswoman; he was a college professor. Their warmth and openness reminded me how travel connects us in unexpected and beautiful ways. Toward the end of the evening, the server approached us, smiling. She asked to take a photo, saying, “This is a beautiful example of the Christmas spirit.” And she was right.

The meal, the laughter, and the kindness of strangers left my heart full. These are the moments I came here seeking—the kind that remind me how rich life can be when you slow down and let it unfold.