Rei do Churrasco is a classic Portuguese Churrasco (barbecue/grill restaurant) in Quarteira - a beach town in Southern Portugal's Algarve.
Learn Portuguese: Rei do Churrasco means King of the Barbecue :) PSA to Americans, note that when we are talking barbecue in this context, we are not talking about grilled meats lathered in thick sweet, spicy, tangy sauces, we are focused on the grilling cooking method.
Filed Under: Algarve Restaurant Reviews • Quarteira
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We used the food waste prevention app Too Good To Go to get takeaway frango piri-piri (portuguese style grilled chicken with spicy piri-piri peppers). TooGoodToGo is a great way to save money whether you live in Portugal or are traveling to Portugal (and elsewhere!) as restaurants will list their leftovers at a discounted rate. |
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2x frango piri piri lunch with fries - €4.99
Using the Too Good To Go App in Portugal, we got 2 servings of piri piri chicken and fries for about 5 euros. This was essentially a whole chicken and lots of fries! It was a great value and we enjoyed a nice walk from Vilamoura to pick up this lunch!
Rei do Churrasco Review
A take-away review is rarely a full and fair review of a restaurant, but seeing as we enjoyed our takeaway, it's safe to say we would happily return to Rei do Churrasco in Quarteira - particularly to try their Madeiran specialities!
Where to Eat in the Algarve: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
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The results are in.. 50 Top Pizza has released their list of best pizzas in the world and guess which pizzeria is representing Portugal on the list again?
who owns forno d'oro?
Forno d'oro is owned by Tanka Sapkota, who was born in Nepal and brought his passion for Neapolitan pizza to Lisbon. He trained under the Gombero Rosso Master Course and his wood-fired pizzas have ranked him in the top pizzas in the world list multiple times.
Above you can see just a few of the many prestigious awards Forno d'Oro (Golden Oven) has received for their delicious pizzas. They are receiving Fiori di Latte cheese fresh from Italy multiple times per week!
Where did forno d'oro rank in the 2024 top pizza in the world list?
Forno d Oro is the ONLY pizzeria in Portugal to rank on the top pizza in the world list, so it's quite an accomplishment! For 2024 they ranked 73rd in the world and the 12th best pizzeria in Europe.
Parabéns! (congratulations in Portuguese)
Parabéns! (congratulations in Portuguese)
What we ordered.
Are you hungry yet? Let's try a few of the best pizzas in Lisbon together!
Diavola - €13.25
Where to stay in Lisbon:
4 Formaggi - €13.95
San Marzano tomatoes DOP, fior di latte, Gorgonzola, smoked Provola cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano DOP 24 mesi.
We were with some dear friends who were moving away and we all decided that in order to mark the occasion properly there was another pizza we just had to try and we could only do it if we worked together as a team lol.
Burrata, prosciutto e Rucola - €15.50
This pizza was so unbelievably delicious and a perfect example of how it takes just a few high quality ingredients to make a dish really shine!
Light and fresh yet highly engaging - we were surprised that this was our favorite pizza of the night! Good thing we ordered it at the last second, right?! ;)
It may even top the fig, prosciutto, and gorgonzola pizza.
We'll probably have to visit another time to know for sure, though. ;)
It may even top the fig, prosciutto, and gorgonzola pizza.
We'll probably have to visit another time to know for sure, though. ;)
Gordon FInest Scotch Ale, Scotland - €8.95
And what's a visit to one of the top pizzerias in the world without trying a new brew?
Gordon Finest Scotch Ale Review
Gordon Finest Scotch Ale - Strong and smooth dark beer flavored with malt whiskey. 8,0% - 33cl
Gordon Finest Scotch Ale Review
Gordon Finest Scotch Ale - Strong and smooth dark beer flavored with malt whiskey. 8,0% - 33cl
"Born in Scotland, Crafted in Belgium"
For those interested in the ingredients and bottling details of Gordon Scotch Ale, see the photos below!
For those interested in the ingredients and bottling details of Gordon Scotch Ale, see the photos below!
Panna Cotta ai Frutti di Bosco - €4.95
At the end of your meal at Forno d'Oro you always have the opportunity to enjoy the parting hospitality of limoncello or grappa. If you've never tried grappa (it's potent), maybe you should give it a try. After that you'll almost certainly always pick limoncello! haha :)
English Menu - forno d' oro pizzeria
Curious what the prices are like at a top pizza place in Lisbon? Here is a recent menu. You can find English descriptions beneath each menu item.
Couvert/Antipasti (appetizers) and Pizze (Pizza) Menu
Pizze (Pizza) Menu
Seasonal Pizza Menu
Pasta & Dessert (Dolci) Menu
Southern Caribbean Cruise
- See all Southern Caribbean Cruise Reviews
Wine Menu
Craft Beer Menu
Gin Menu
Forno d'Oro Review
We love Forno d'Oro! When you have such a great experience at a restaurant the first time that you want to bring your friends who are also pizza lovers you know it's the real deal.
Still, there is a smidge of apprehension that a second visit to a place won't be as good as the first, you know what I mean?
As you can tell from our photo review, forno d'oro is living up to our expectations and we won't hesitate to come back and bring more friends the next time we are in Lisbon!
Highly recommend you stop in for some amazing Neapolitan pizza in Lisbon!
Still, there is a smidge of apprehension that a second visit to a place won't be as good as the first, you know what I mean?
As you can tell from our photo review, forno d'oro is living up to our expectations and we won't hesitate to come back and bring more friends the next time we are in Lisbon!
Highly recommend you stop in for some amazing Neapolitan pizza in Lisbon!
Best Places To eat in Lisbon:
- Bandalho Meat and Wine - Burgers, Sangria, and one of the fudgiest brownies in Portugal
- Bubble Time Expo Review - Bubble tea & Bubble Waffles on the Riverfront
- Han Table Korean BBQ Review - Grill at the table with your friends!
- Where to get unlimited sushi in Lisbon - Sushi Fixe in Miraflores Review
What is "a splash for your bash" anyway?
"Splash for Your Bash" is an experience package available on virgin voyages cruise line. This booking package lets you celebrate in an extra special way!
Filed Under: Virgin Voyages Travel Agent
what is included in splash for your bash?
If you add on this package to your cruise you will enjoy concierge assistance with group dining reservations (groups of 8 sailors or more) before your cruise.
Here are your benefits during the cruise:
Here are your benefits during the cruise:
- One (1) bottle of Moet & Chandon Champagne (750mL) per cabin placed in cabin
- Bottomless Brunch: Complimentary Bottomless Brunch drink package per Sailor in the cabin, to be used at The Wake or Razzle Dazzle venue (available to be used once throughout the voyage)
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Celebratory Dinner:
- Venue-specific Chef selected sharing menus for the group
- Venue-specific curated beverage package for the group that compliments the selected menus
- Celebratory Dessert
how much does it cost to add a splash for your bash package to my cruise?
It cost $250 per cabin (2 sailors) to enjoy the celebratory splash for your bash experience package on a virgin voyages cruise. This package represents a $375 value!
Would you add this package to make your cruise extra special?
What are you celebrating on your next cruise?!
does Virgin Voyages Allow Payment Plans?
Yes they do! A promotional rate of 0% APR with $0 down is available for qualified applicants. Virgin Voyages partners with Uplift to allow you to pay for your cruise over time.
Looking for a way to save a little extra on your next cruise on Virgin Voyages?
Pay In Full Discount
For a limited time when you book a 2025 or 2026 Virgin Voyage and pay in full, you will enjoy an extra discount.
That's up to an additional $500 off your cruise and this pay-in-full discount is combinable with the current of 70% off a second sailor. Is the Save On Cruises 2025/2026 Pay In Full Offer still going on? Click here to find out! |
How to make this deal even sweeter?
Open one of our favorite travel credit cards to pay for your cruise in full.
Not only will you get the extra savings on the cruise but you'll earn a generous sign up bonus at the same time! ;) That sign up bonus could get you free flights, hotel stays, cash back on your trip and includes great perks like built in travel protection. :) |
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Save on 2025 + 2026 cruises offer
This offer is combinable with:
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This offer is not combinable with:
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Cruise Drink Packages:
Aldi Review: Appetitos Caramelized Onion and Gouda Mini Puff Pastries
Can you ever go wrong with puff pastry? Caramelized onions? Gouda? It seems nearly impossible for this combination to go wrong, but let's see..
In this post:
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Aldi Frozen Appetizer Description:
Flaky all-butter pastry topped with creamy gouda cheese filling and caramelized onions.
NUTRITION FACTS AND PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONs
How to prepare Aldi's caramelized onion and gouda cheese puff pastry appetizers: In a conventional oven:
Some readers have recommended cutting down the bake time by using an air fryer! |
APPETITOS Caramelized Onion and Gouda MINI PUFF PASTRIES REVIEW
Shown here: Aldi Appetitios Caramelized Onion and Gouda Puff Pastry Bites on the cast iron skillet about to go in the convection oven!
Confession: These were so good that I never got a pic of them out of the oven. I ate one as a tester and then another as a tester. Before I knew it they were gone! Flavor and texture are excellent and the puff pastry is perfect! These would be great to pick up for your next wine and app night in - Netflix and chill! Definite BUY on this! $4.79 on Instacart |
Aldi Review: APPETITOS CRANBERRY FETA MINI PUFF PASTRIES
I don't know about you, but I love a puff pastry appetizer. The flavor combination of tangy cranberry with smooth and salty feta on a light and flaky pastry just sounds delicious, doesn't it!?
In this post
Aldi Frozen Appetizer Description: Flaky all-butter pastry topped with creamy feta cheese filling and cranberry sauce |
Nutrition Facts and Preparation Instructions
How to prepare Aldi's cranberry and feta mini puff pastries:
In a conventional oven:
Some readers have recommended cutting down the bake time by using an air fryer! |
APPETITOS CRANBERRY & FETA MINI PUFF PASTRIES Review
Aldi tends to stock cute little appetizers like these cranberry and feta pastries around the winter holiday season, but a lot of folks wish they were available year round.
Personally, I preferred the more savory caramelized onion and gouda puff pastry appetizers over these, although they were good. The combo of both flavors provides your guests variety in easy appetizers!
Tip: To reduce cleanup, try baking on silpat!
Personally, I preferred the more savory caramelized onion and gouda puff pastry appetizers over these, although they were good. The combo of both flavors provides your guests variety in easy appetizers!
Tip: To reduce cleanup, try baking on silpat!
Aldi Review: Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef
Apparently Buona is Chicago's original Italian Beef joint, but I've never been to Chicago (yet) so I had no idea! I was drawn to Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef at Aldi because it was promoted as all natural, no MSG, no preservatives, no long ingredients lists... sounded like a good option for a decent meal on a busy night!
I ordered the Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef at Aldi via Instacart and I believe the 4 lb container cost about $16.99. Be mindful that this container has a lot of liquid inside ("gravy"). Still it fed 2 adults for 4 meals - not bad!
Chicago's original italian style gravy & Sliced Beef"Chicago's original Italian beef from the nation's leading family owned restaurant brand is now available in your grocer's freezer. The Buonavolanto family cooks up the world's best all-natural Italian style gravy and sliced beef made from our original recipe. No shortcuts, no MSG, no preservatives, no artificial colors or flavors. Just slow-roasted, perfectly seasoned perfection. Three generations of Buonavolantos invite you to enjoy the same Italian style gravy and beef that millions of people have made famous at our family's restaurants since 1981." #buonabeef |
Italian Sliced Beef Recipe Ideas
Add To Cart: Italian Beef Seasoning |
Buona Beef Ingredients, Nutrition Facts, cooking instructions
The ingredients are simple:
- Beef gravy - beef drippings, water, natural flavors, spices
- Seasoned Beef - Beef, water, salt
Cooking Buona's Italian style sliced beef is pretty easy since ... it's already cooked. lol ;)
Just heat and serve.
The best way to heat, of course, is on the stove top.
Thaw the beef completely in your fridge overnight, then pour the contents of the container into a large saucepan and heat over medium until the meat reaches a temperature of 180 degrees.
Use a cooking thermometer to ensure safe reheat temperature!
Just heat and serve.
The best way to heat, of course, is on the stove top.
Thaw the beef completely in your fridge overnight, then pour the contents of the container into a large saucepan and heat over medium until the meat reaches a temperature of 180 degrees.
Use a cooking thermometer to ensure safe reheat temperature!
You may be interested in...
Buona Italian Style Gravy & Sliced Beef Review
I could see myself purchasing this again, in a year. It's convenient, has respectable ingredients, and was about $2 per person per meal in our house. I recommend slicing up some peppers, onions, and mushrooms for optimal enjoyment. Even better - get yourself some authentic Chicago-style Hot Giardiniera.
Alternatively get some shaved/sliced beef raw and season it up just how you like. One benefit of that is not having this huge container around in your fridge or freezer.
Alternatively get some shaved/sliced beef raw and season it up just how you like. One benefit of that is not having this huge container around in your fridge or freezer.
Day 3 of our Southern Caribbean Cruise was another relaxing sea day. We took the opportunity to meet up with family for breakfast in the main dining room.
Breakfast in the main dining room
These photos of breakfast in the main dining room on Symphony of the Seas show just a sample of what you can order off the menu for breakfast on your cruise.
All the classics are available: bacon, sausage, hash browns, fried eggs, scrambled eggs, eggs Benedict, pancakes, and French toast.
Because you're on a cruise... you can also order dessert like this layered carrot cake with walnut topping after breakfast if you want. :p
PArk Cafe
Park Cafe is a free dining option in the Central Park neighborhood aboard Symphony of the Seas. It's meant to be a casual deli where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or grab an afternoon snack.
There is a case where you can just grab a ready-made sandwich and a piece of fruit which is very convenient.
The Park Cafe Menu serves up soups and sandwiches, including the "legendary" Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich and the occasional Cuban Sandwich.
You'll also find sweet treats like this Matcha Cream Puff, Raspberry Pound Cake, and Mudslide Cookies.
You'll also find sweet treats like this Matcha Cream Puff, Raspberry Pound Cake, and Mudslide Cookies.
You can dine in or do what we did - take your treats and Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich outside to enjoy in Central Park.
Chops Grille Menu
Chops Grille is a Classic American Steakhouse specialty dining restaurant on Symphony of the Seas.
Check out the menu as seen in Central Park:
Check out the menu as seen in Central Park:
The Bionic Bar
The Bionic Bar on Symphony of the Seas is located on deck 5.
Here you can have your cocktails made by robots. Drinks are not free at the bionic bar. You pay, as you would in any bar, using your Sea Pass Card. If you have a beverage package, drinks are included up to the specified value.
Here you can have your cocktails made by robots. Drinks are not free at the bionic bar. You pay, as you would in any bar, using your Sea Pass Card. If you have a beverage package, drinks are included up to the specified value.
The rising tide Bar
The Rising Tide Bar is a moving bar at sea which slowly ascends and descends over 3 decks on Symphony of the Seas. In the photo below we are looking up at the bottom of the floating bar.
The departure times are listed at the entrances on Deck 8 and Deck 5. Like the Bionic Bar, this is a novel bar concept that you should try at least once just for the fun of it.
The departure times are listed at the entrances on Deck 8 and Deck 5. Like the Bionic Bar, this is a novel bar concept that you should try at least once just for the fun of it.
REgalia Watches
If you're looking for a luxury timepiece onboard Symphony, or maybe just window shopping, Regalia Watches is onboard. They also hosted a Watch and Scotch event on our cruise.
Watch & Scotch Event
The Watch and Scotch event featured Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky: Island Green, Gold Label Reserve, Black Label, and Red Label.
At the event you can enjoy a complimentary tasting and this is one of the opportunities for those with a tighter budget to get free drinks on a cruise!
Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve.
Johnnie Walker Island Green
I really enjoyed the complexity that the smokiness brought to Johnnie Walker's Island Green Blended Malt Whisky.
Free Mini Golf on Symphony of the seas Cruise Ship
The mini golf course is located on deck 15 and it is quite cute with its very vacation-y theme.
It is a lot of fun and can be a tad challenging depending on the winds at sea, but it is possible to get a hole-in-one! ;)
Few things will work up your appetite like cruise ship mini golf.. :)
A taste of italy menu - Main dining room
Crispy Parmesan Arancini.
Arborio rice, portobello mushroom and provolone cheese rolled in panko and fried until golden, served with romesco sauce.
Golden Polenta Fries.
Crispy baked corn polenta served with a chilled creamy hazelnut-red pepper spread.
See also: Eating Arancini In Italy
Lasagne al forno.
Layers of pasta, mozzarella, béchamel and hearty beef ragout drizzled with fragrant herb oil.
Tiramisu.
Making our way from the Main Dining Room to the Aqua Theater for the evening showing of Hiro, we passed Johnny Rockets on the Boardwalk.
Italy Travel Blog.
Johnny Rockets
Johnny Rockets is a retro American dinner where you can grab diner classics like burgers, fries, and milkshakes not to mention a special performance if you time it just right. ;)
Johnny Rockets Menu on Symphony of the seas.
Johnny Rockets is a casual dining option on Royal Caribbean Cruises. You do have to pay a surcharge to eat at Johnny Rockets, but on Symphony of the Seas breakfast is free!
Tap a Johnny Rockets cruise ship menu below to enlarge it!
Tap a Johnny Rockets cruise ship menu below to enlarge it!
If you are "Loyal to Royal" and have sailed with Royal Caribbean before you will also have a discount on Johny Rocket's Milkshakes loaded onto your account.
Just let the waiter know when you order one that you want to use your 50% off milkshake coupon.
Just let the waiter know when you order one that you want to use your 50% off milkshake coupon.
Hiro aquatheater show
Hiro was the AquaTheater show on Symphony of the Seas and this fuzzy night time pic is all I got to prove I was there. :p
It's amazing to see the use of the dive pool and acrobatics in a choreographed show like this. Royal likes to brag on their entertainment, but I can see why after our most recent cruise. |
Virgin Voyages may have the best drink package at sea and here's why..
Virgin VOyages Drinks Package FAQS:
- Does Virgin have a drinks package?
- Are drinks free on Virgin Cruises?
- What are Basic Bevvies?
- Can you bring your own alcohol on Virgin Voyages?
- Can you get in trouble for bringing alcohol onboard?
- How will they know if I bring alcohol onboard?
- How much are drinks on Virgin Cruises?
- Is the Bar Tab worth it?
- Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package onboard?
- How much is Moet on Virgin?
- How much does Shake for Champagne cost?
- Does everyone in the room have to buy a drink package?
- Do you tip Bartenders if you have a drink package or Bar Tab?
- Virgin Voyages Drinks Package Review
- Current Bar Tab Deals
Does virgin voyages have a drinks package?
No! Unlike the majority of mainstream cruise lines, Virgin Voyages does not have a beverage package.
Are drinks free on virgin voyages?
Virgin cruises includes 'Basic Bevvies' for all passengers as they considered these to be essential drinks.
What are 'Basic Bevvies'?
The following drinks are free on a Virgin cruise:
- filtered still and sparkling water
- fruit juices (non-pressed)
- sodas
- tea
- drip coffee