Lagar do Alva Restaurant (Arganil)

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In Central Portugal, by the banks of the Alva River, we find the authentic and traditional flavors of this region. It was at “Lagar do Alva” Restaurant, located in Côja, in the astonishing municipality of Arganil, that we embarked on this culinary journey today.

For the less observant traveler, while traveling along N344, specifically on “Dr. Alberto Moura Pinto” Street in Côja, it’s likely that you may pass by the Volunteer Fire Department without realizing that right there, next to it, there is such a special and still unknown place to many: Côja River Beach and the complementing “Lagar do Alva” Restaurant.

After a refreshing dive in the cool waters of the Alva River, our appetite was whetted for the discovery of a space where tradition harmoniously blends with gastronomic culture, resulting in dishes that delight all the senses.

The rustic ambiance, with stone walls and wooden details, transports us to a world of ancestral traditions.

The stone building is already over 300 years old and was originally an olive oil mill, using the river’s current to power the millstones that crushed the olives. It belonged to the Santo António Convent in Vila Cova do Alva and was converted into a restaurant in 1988.

Its privileged location invites us into a welcoming and picturesque atmosphere. The rustic ambiance, with stone walls and wooden details, transports us to a world of ancestral traditions. It’s as if we are entering a family home, where each meal is prepared with love and dedication.

Its regional cuisine celebrates the finest local ingredients. Many of the dishes are inspired by the roots of the region, with a focus on the robust and comforting flavors of traditional Portuguese cuisine, such as codfish, octopus, “chanfana” (a traditional meat dish), and hunting dishes. Seasonal products are carefully selected, ensuring the freshness and quality that define each dish.

To start, we opted for a fresh slice of melon for the children and a delicious “queijo da serra” (mountain cheese) for the adults. We chose Grilled Squid, accompanied by white potatoes, sweet potatoes, scallions, and greens, as well as Grilled Wild Boar Chops with mushroom rice.

The squid was cooked to perfection, nicely grilled and drizzled with delicious olive oil, complemented by the tanginess of the scallions and the sweet contrast of the potatoes. The wild boar chops could have been a bit thinner and more tender. It would have been the perfect experience. However, the mushroom rice was delicious.

Codfish and octopus are also two highly sought-after options at the restaurant, but they will have to wait for the next opportunity, which will surely come soon. For lunch on the terrace, overlooking the river beach, it is better to make a reservation in advance. Despite the hot day, the terrace is covered, and a cool breeze was blowing, which was very pleasant.

Lagar do Alva is more than just a restaurant; it is a sensory journey through the authenticity, culture, and traditions of the region. It is a place where memories are made, the perfect space to spend quality time with friends or family. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience it if you happen to be in Côja, Arganil. After all, the best stories are told around a table. Enjoy your meal!

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