Super Pinto is the stereotype of a local restaurant. Located on a central street in downtown Faro (in fact, the street of our guesthouse), it serves only lunch, in an unpretentious room with practically non-existent decoration and simple furniture, reminiscent of a university or factory canteen.
And that is precisely what makes it interesting. It’s a genuine neighbourhood atmosphere, frequented by workers and office staff looking for a quick, filling and inexpensive lunch. It’s therefore excellent for people-watching while you eat.
The menu consists of three daily dishes and a soup, in addition to the simple items found on the menu of every Portuguese restaurant, such as a bifana (pork sandwich) or a bitoque (steak with egg and chips), and the typical Portuguese desserts, such as rice pudding and chocolate mousse.
The dishes available are traditional Portuguese cuisine. Some are more typical than others, but among the options you’ll find offerings such as Favas à Portuguesa (broad beans stewed with cured sausages), Açorda de Marisco (seafood bread stew), Peixinho Frito com Arroz de Tomate (fried fish with tomato rice), Feijoada de Choco (cuttlefish and bean stew) and various cod dishes.
The price? A pleasant surprise. Customers can choose between three portion sizes. Those with a voracious appetite can opt for a substantial amount of food, while those who just want to taste something can choose a small plate. For the average person, the so-called half portion costs €6.30. Tempting.
The restaurant is also open outside lunchtime, for a morning breakfast or a drink. After lunch it starts to close down slowly, with the staff tidying up the space and cleaning the kitchen. It’s usually possible to find something for a last-minute customer at this stage, but you shouldn’t take it for granted. Super Pinto is a truly local restaurant, with a team led by Sandra, the owner.