Talking about Estaminé is easy. After all, it’s the only restaurant on Ilha Deserta in the Algarve.

Of course, that alone does not indicate the restaurant is any good. But in this particular case, and luckily for those visiting, Estaminé is really good.

As soon as we disembark at Deserta, brought by one of the Amaris boats, which also owns the restaurant, we come across a long wooden walkway leading to a structure, also made entirely of wood, where Estaminé is located.

It didn’t make sense for it to be any other way. A concrete building would harm the landscape and the environment in which the building is located, a barrier island part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

From Ria Formosa to Estaminé

When we enter Estaminé, we find a bright space, as windows surround the restaurant, most of which face the beach.

Being on the Ria Formosa means that the stars of the restaurant’s menu come from these waters.

From oysters to clams to shrimp, they all have a place at the table, whether in seafood platters or rice casseroles.

The fish from the coast, grilled or baked, also delights those who come to Estaminé.

If you’re a meat person, there are also a few options, although the choice isn’t huge.

Since you’re in the Algarve, I suggest choosing typical local dishes.

In my case, I chose tuna muxama and fish soup as a starter, followed by xarém with seafood from the estuary. Everything was delicious!

But there were also some other local delicacies, such as “lulinhas à algarvia” or “lulas da avó Belmira.” At Estaminé, these dishes truly stand out.

Visiting the restaurant at Ilha Deserta

Although Ilha Deserta is most popular during the summer, the Estaminé restaurant is open all year round, so you can take a shuttle there.

In any case, whether it’s summer or winter, I suggest booking in advance, especially if you want to go at the weekend to Estaminé.

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