Out with the old.........in with the new.

Once again I find myself having to start a post with an apology. It is far too long since I posted on this blog and as usual I have no excuse other than my own inertia.

Since my last post in February we have in fact visited SL twice and during those visits noted a number of closures of established businesses and the opening of new ventures.

We were particularly surprised by the closure of Taberna Bibica in the Largo Do Igrejia. This long established bar was actually the cheapest place to drink in SL and was frequented by mainly local fishermen. Many of the customers were a little shady looking and often drunk which lead Joan and I to nickname the place "The bad boys bar" though we have drunk in there on many occasions and were always treated respectfully which really makes the epithet a little unfair.

Another surprise closure is Snack bar Gaivota situated just behind the Credito Agricola bank and at the side of the Jardim municipal this business occupied a prime trading position in SL but did not really seem to capitalise on it. I think this will be a space to watch, given the right operator and a little investment something special could occur here.

Talking about special, wander along R Comandante Henrique Tenriero ( the main road at the rear of SL running down to Largo do Igrejia) and take a look at the former Snack Bar Quim completely refurbished in the most modern style and renamed N'oss this new business will be the first real competitor for the late night drinking trade formerly the sole domain of Alvaro Regueira's Meia Pipa bar.

Elsewhere in the village a new restaurant Nadia's has opened on Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco (the promenade). Situated next door to the Chinese bazaar this stylish new restaurant is owned and operated by a very attractive young Brazilian lady ( Nadia) and her brother. We have not actually eaten here yet but we can however highly recommend their afternoon special offer of a dink and a Tapas.

Sitting at the beautifully laid outside table with stunning views across the Ria just €1.50 for an ice cold beer and tapas or €2.50 for a generous glass of wine and a tapas represents exceptional value for money. I defy anybody to have just the one.

I reserve my greatest praise however for the brave decision of Isobella the proud operator of the new snack bar Tortulia dos 3 sabores.

Situated at the junction of R. do Caminho das Trinidades and R. Francisco Jose Nascimento Bateira smack bang in the middle of all the new apartments at the western end of the village this little gem of a bar fills an enormous gap in the market.

The outside area of Tortulia dos 3 Sabores on the tree lined R. Do Caminho Das Trinidades.

Up till now those holidaying or living in this area of SL faced a trek into Largo Do Igrejia should they fancy a quick beer, coffee or a little fresh bread for breakfast. No more, this well presented new business offers drinks snacks and daily fresh baked bread.

Isabella herself though she speaks very little English could not be more attentive, accommodating and friendly. On the morning of our first visit Joan enjoyed a Tosta mixta and Galao (milky white coffee) while I plumped for Rissois de camarao (prawn pasties) and a Galoa.

Friendly owner Isabella attends to her customers.

Plans are afoot to introduce a menu of tasty snacks and salads for the summer season and the usual array of Portuguese cakes and pastries are always available. As I said earlier the decision to be the first business to open in this area of SL is incredibly courageous and I wish Isabella well in here venture.

Do please take time out from the usual village haunts to visit Tortulia dos 3 Sabores.

I can guarantee that you will be made most welcome and enjoy every minute of your visit.

The well appointed interior of Tortulia dos 3 Sabores.

Do you have a sweet tooth? Tortulia dos 3 Sabores has just the thing for you.