Mar das Latas Wine & Food 2023: Reviews, Food and More
Ericeira is known for the freshest seafood and best fish along the west coast. The food in Ericeira restaurants is usually good, but it’s not always served with a view, or with a side of incredible service. But Mar das Latas Wine & Food has changed all that.
Mar das Latas opened in 2014, and they’ve been making waves ever since. Perched on the cliff tops of the Ribas in Ericeira, Mar das Latas Wine & Food is a gourmet tapas restaurant with a wine bar to boot. Gone are the days when you had to wander down the villages winding alleys in search of a place that served something other than shrimp or pizza. Mar das Latas’ consistently excellent food and top-notch service has earned them the number one spot in Ericeira from Trip Advisor.
From the get-go, it’s clear that the dining experience is special. People spill onto the street and hang on the cliff wall savoring the last golden rays of another glorious sunset as they sip their white wine and munch on tapas. We were no exception to the rule! We enjoyed some delicious cured tuna, called Muxama, served with a round of creamy, tangy cheese paired with an excellent rose recommended by Gonçalo the waiter.
The delightful buzz of people relaxing is palpable. Most of them have a reservation, and once the sun sets and nightlife begins, they will slowly file into the neighboring teal restaurant for the next delectable course.
The Menu
As we sit at the table the stunning purple and orange of the sky match the mood of the chique dining room. We are all here to have a good time eating good food.
On the menu there are many meat and fish options, as well as vegetarian choices for prices ranging from 10 to 25 Euros per dish. The variety of dishes is quite interesting, although the menu isn’t extensive.
All the dishes are elaborated by Bia, the 23-year-old chef who loves to create, innovate and reinvent traditional Portuguese food. I have to say, she’s quite good at it. The idea here is that all plates are to be shared and enjoyed together, so everyone gets to taste a little of everything. The menu changes periodically, and people can’t get enough of it, so get there quickly to enjoy the dishes I tried.
My favorite was the veal tartar topped with a creamy cured egg yolk, served with crunchy homemade chips. It was fresh and flavorful, without being overly heavy or too spicy. This was closely followed by the truffle risotto. It’s an indulgent plate with a delicate flavor that I’m sure will make it to the top of your list. Pedro chose the Bacalhau a Braz and really enjoyed the crispy texture and creamy cod interior. We both really liked the black olive dust the chef dusts her plates with.
Miguel, the owner, was at our table chatting us up and suggested a white wine that would pair nicely with our choice of food. What a delightful experience!
The dessert menu is just as inspiring, with new additions which are often not on the list. We had an especially enticing light and crispy citrus fruit pavlova with an incredible ice wine to top it off. Just wow.
The Owners
The restaurant is run by Ana and Miguel, their daughter Bia the Chef, and her partner Gonçalo. Together they have created an inviting space where guests can enjoy the best of delicious contemporary Portuguese cuisine. Miguel and Gonçalo provide the friendly banter and exceptional service that keeps guests coming back for more, while Ana works hard to keep the wine bar service working smoothly.
The Wine Cellar
Miguel has an extensive knowledge of wines and has carefully crafted a selection that perfectly complements the menu. He makes sure to have unusual varieties from all over Portugal, as well as some more familiar ones, which makes his wine cellar one of the most varied and noteworthy in the region. As a sommelier and Maitre D Miguel is always on hand to assist with wine recommendations and pairings.
Mar da Latas Wine & Food: Conclusion
Mar das Latas Wine & Food is the perfect place for a special dinner with friends and family or for a romantic evening by the sea. I highly recommend the experience and guarantee you’ll be back for more.
Mar das Latas Wine & Food FAQ
Does Mar das Latas have a bar?
Yes, Mar das Latas has a bar which offers an extensive selection of wines, cocktails and spirits. The bar also serves snacks and light appetizers. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for enjoying a relaxing drink while watching the sunset over the ocean. Guests can also enjoy special events such as wine-pairing dinners or live music nights.
Is Mar das Latas Wine & Food expensive?
No, Mar das Latas Wine & Food is not overly expensive. They offer great value for money with their wide selection of wines and spirits, main dishes, snacks and light appetizers. Prices per plate range from 10 to 22 Euros, making this an affordable spot to enjoy a delicious meal with excellent service.
How is Mar das Latas rated?
Mar das Latas is highly rated by customers, receiving excellent reviews on Trip Advisor (4.5/5), the Fork (9.6/10) and Google (4.7/5). Customers praise the restaurant for its delicious food and drinks, friendly staff, cozy atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Not to be missed.
Do I need a reservation for dinner?
Yes, you will need to make a reservation for dinner at Mar das Latas. Reservations can be made by phone, on the Fork, with Google or through Instagram. It is recommended to reserve at least one day ahead since it often fills up quickly regardless of day of the week.
What are their opening hours?
During winter months, from December to March, Mar das Latas’ wine bar opens at 4 pm and closes around 10 pm while the restaurant serves from 7 to 10 pm. During summer months, hours are extended until 11 pm.
Which day is Mar das Latas closed?
Mar das Latas is closed on Sundays and doesn’t open for lunch. They also close for holidays for the last week of November and the last 3 weeks of January.