The "Ricky Magic" Behind Grilled Dourado, Robalo (Sea Bass), and Salmon

At Tasca Do Ricky, when someone orders grilled dourado, robalo (sea bass), or salmon, they’re not just ordering dinner — they’re stepping into the heart of Faro’s traditional cuisine, served with soul, pride, and a touch of what we like to call Ricky magic.

We don’t serve lunch — we’re a dinner-only kind of place. That’s because good things take time. We prepare our food the way it’s been done for generations here in the Algarve: slowly, simply, and with the kind of care that can’t be rushed.

It all starts in the kitchen, where we keep things honest. Our fresh dourado, robalo (sea bass), and salmon are grilled plain, just as tradition calls for — no marinades, no tricks, no distractions. Straight onto the gas grill, cooked to perfection with nothing but flame, experience, and respect for the fish.

And then, the real treat — the Ricky magic happens tableside.

That’s right. We don’t hide the flavor behind kitchen doors. I bring the grilled fish to your table, steaming hot and ready to be transformed. Right in front of you, I apply my signature blend: Portuguese olive oil infused with fresh minced garlic and chopped coriander. The aroma rises like a warm sea breeze, and suddenly you know — this isn’t just dinner. This is Faro on a plate.

Next, a sprinkle of sea salt, to highlight the natural flavors, followed by the final flourish — a delicate spray of white wine vinegar. Not too much — just enough to brighten everything up and give it that zing that makes you sit up in your chair and say, “Ah, sim!”

And don’t worry — the potatoes get their moment too. Simple boiled potatoes are elevated with that same olive oil, a dash of salt, and a little vinegar mist. Humble, yes — but unforgettable once the Ricky touch hits them.

At Tasca Do Ricky, we’re not just serving food. We’re serving Algarvian heritage, with garlic on our fingers, pride in our hearts, and a grill that never quits. That’s why locals and travelers alike call us one of the best traditional restaurants in Faro.

So come hungry, come curious, and come ready to taste what makes the Algarve — and Tasca Do Ricky — so special. The fish is hot, the potatoes are waiting, and the Ricky magic is always served with a smile.