Volta Do Mar has opened on Tavistock Street in the heart of Covent Garden in an elegant double-fronted Georgian townhouse, previously occupied by a branch of the Italian chain Strada. A Portuguese restaurant whose name translates 'to return from the sea', the duo behind this venture is former Salt Yard co-founder Simon Mullins and his wife Isabel Almeida da Silva, who has previously held positions as front of house at Marco Pierre White's Mirabelle and Chris Corbin and Jeremy King's, The Delaunay.

Laid out over two floors, the interiors are cosy and welcoming reflecting the spirited atmosphere of Portugal, with a décor that echoes its trading past. The first-floor wood panelled Georgian dining room is a light-filled room designed as an eccentric merchant's house, with an eclectic array of curiosities and artwork displayed throughout. The ground floor is more casual with a natural wood bar serving rare spirits from around the globe, as well as a wine list that majors in Portuguese wines.

Leading the kitchen is Portuguese chef George Tannock, who climbed the culinary ladder in critically acclaimed kitchens such as The Dorchester, The Fat Duck, Zuma, Treves & Hyde and more recently the Sexy Fish in Mayfair. Showcasing classic Portuguese dishes influenced from its trading posts through South America, Africa and Asia, the menu is diverse and colourful featuring small and large plates. Kick off with chargrilled octopus and black eyed peas salad before moving on to Moçambique piri piri chicken. To conclude there are desserts in the shape of Castella cake with caramelised figs and Liquor Beirao ice cream or grilled pineapple with chilli and coconut sorbet.

Rate this Restaurant

Portuguese

George Tannock

Breakfast: 9.00am (12.00pm Sun) through
Lunch: until
Dinner: 12.00am (11.00pm Sun

Visa, Master Card

• Pre theater meals
• Alfresco dining
• Disabled access
• Private dining room
• Private parties
• Family Friendly

Nearest tube station: Covent Garden