Rocha Mar

We haven't been here for years but the food was very good although the portions are on the large side for us.

 

We have only eaten there twice in 15 years, and both times all 4 of us thought it was the worst food and service we had encountered on the Algarve. The second time was to see if it had improved; it hadn't. However, my daughter and family ate there every evening for a fortnight and thought it was fantastic! A matter of taste?

 

Interesting comments. We tried it for the first time last year (amazing having been coming to RB for twenty!) and we thought it was ok-ish. Then again this year - still ok-ish. They often seem to be busy. We always used to go once to Jardim do Farol, but we feel it may have gone downhill somewhat. If you want to know what we really do like you will need to look up my comments on Trip Advisor - quite a few reviews from our three trips to RB this year.

 

We've never used Rocha Mar, because we have only ever heard poor reports. Jardim do Farol has always been one of our favourites, and I'd be interested to hear why you feel that it's gone downhill.

 

It is clear that everyone's tastes are different. Firstly, I don't think that the comments from dennisg are particularly helpful without being more specific about the actual dates of their visits - 15 years ago may not be representative of today? We always use Rocha Mar at least twice in any given 15 day+ stay and have always been satisfied - four times in 2013 with no complaints. The owner and the staff are extremely efficient and friendly and the ambience is pleasant. Prices are also good being somewhat lower than the surrounding competition.

The Jardim do Farol always had the edge on food quality but their prices have gone up considerably over the past 2 years. The best value meal on the Algarve must be their lunchtime special of a multi course meal for just 8.50€ and of excellent quality. A virtually identical meal can be found elsewhere but costing 16.95€

 

On reflection I think my comment may be a bit unfair. It may be partly that we look for a bit more variety on menus these days (and we prefer meat to fish).....

 

I must admit we haven't eaten there for at least 5 years. I know it's that long because my friend's wife died 5 years ago (not as a result of eating at Rocha Mar!) Thinking back she enjoyed her duck there the first time we went, whereas the other 3 of us were not impressed. The second time we went none of us enjoyed it, and my friend said to the manager that it was the worst food and service he had encountered on the Algarve. The manager just shrugged his shoulders and walked off. Maybe it 's under different management now and perhaps we should give it another try when we come out in November.

 

Perhaps the variability in opinions about Rocha Mar is partly down to its location in relation to RB. For anyone staying at RB who doesn't have a transport it must be quite tempting to step over the road.

 

We have dined at Rocha Mar regularly over the five year we have been owners and built up a good rap pour with the owner and his son. In our view the service is good, the staff friendly and the food good and certainly agree the portions are generous. Back home I eat out 2/3 nights per week while working away from home and I certainly feel Rocha Mar service is superior to the "don't care if I serve you or not attitude" of waiting staff in major UK hotel chains. Give Rocha Mar a try, taking into account when busy the service may be slower, for me I am on holiday and service time is not my main priority good food and service is.

 

All is forgiven. We visited Rocha Mar last Friday and had an excellent meal at a reasonable price. Good service too although it was busy. Had delicious tuna Algarvean style. Thoroughly recommended.

 

Ate there again this last Friday and equally impressed. Definitely now on the list for future visits.

 

Excellent, I am glad you both gave it a try I suggest forget the starter and leave room for a dessert. I recommend the lemon meringue pie it's excellent! Can't wait to get back in January.

 

Best check the latest (2016) reviews on "Trip Advisor" before you intend to visit this place.