A Velha's menu overview in Abrantes Portugal
At A Velha, nestled in the charming town of Abrantes, Portugal, diners are invited to explore a menu that masterfully blends traditional Portuguese flavors with modern culinary twists. This thoughtfully curated selection highlights the best of local ingredients and artisanal techniques, creating a vibrant dining experience both inside the elegant interior and on the terrace with stunning views.
Starters
Begin your meal with exquisitely crafted starters that showcase the bounty of local waters and traditional flavors. The Sopa de peixe do rio com massa de cotovelinhos presents a comforting river fish soup paired with delicate elbow pasta for a hearty start. For a refreshing twist, the Ceviche de peixe do rio com batata chip doce combines fresh river fish with crispy sweet potato chips and vibrant ceviche seasonings. The robust Salada da matança features a bold combination of pork cuts including pork slices, heart, and liver, all enhanced by a sharp escabeche sauce.
Mains
The main courses at A Velha are a testament to Portuguese culinary heritage presented with contemporary flair. The Tártaro de vitela com tostas delights with finely seasoned veal tartare served alongside crisp toasts. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Lombos de lúcio-perca panados, featuring breaded pike-perch loins paired with a flavorful cockle rice. The iconic Bacalhau da Velha offers tender cod with a rich white bean purée, sautéed cabbage, and traditional cornbread, embodying rustic Portuguese soul food. The Pernil de porco confitado 24 horas is a slow-confit pork leg served with aromatic coriander and lemon rice, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite. For meat enthusiasts, the Bochecha de vitela a 33 horas presents melt-in-your-mouth veal cheek with pickled red cabbage and toasted almonds for a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Desserts
Conclude your meal with delectable desserts that showcase the region's rich culinary traditions. Velhoses with salted caramel and ice cream provide a perfect balance of sweet and creamy textures. The Tigelada de Abrantes, a traditional custard tart, is served with crunchy almonds and goat cheese ice cream, offering a unique blend of flavors. For a lighter yet intense finish, the Pudim de azeite combines olive oil pudding with walnut crumble and lemon balm curd, highlighting the fresh local ingredients with a sophisticated touch.
Drinks and Specials
Complement your meal with an excellent selection of local wines and beers, thoughtfully paired to enhance the depth of flavors in each dish. A Velha’s commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a perfect spot for groups and families seeking a genuine Portuguese dining experience with attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere, whether indoors or on the scenic outdoor terrace overlooking Abrantes.
- Starters Sopa de peixe do rio com massa de cotovelinhos, Ceviche de peixe do rio com batata chip doce, Salada da matança featuring pork cuts with escabeche sauce.
- Mains Tártaro de vitela com tostas, Lombos de lúcio-perca panados com arroz de berbigão, Bacalhau da Velha with puré de feijão and couve, Pernil de porco confitado 24 horas, Bochecha de vitela a 33 horas with pickled cabbage and toasted almonds.
- Desserts Velhoses with salted caramel and gelato, Tigelada de Abrantes with almond crunch and goat cheese ice cream, Pudim de azeite with walnut crumble and lemon balm curd.
