THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Alfama

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Alfama Restaurant Review:

There was a collective sigh of relief when hospitable owners Tarcísio Costa and Miguel Jerónimo found a new home for Alfama. Though significantly different in style from the restaurant’s original West Village location, the midtown setting conveys the spirit and coziness of the Portuguese coast from which it derives its name, with bright orange banquettes and blue and white tile work. A display of homemade breads made daily greets guests at the door. Portuguese apéritifs, inspired cocktails and wines, some unique to Portugal, like the Amarguinha, are served at the nine-seat marble bar. Dining areas range from the ground-floor room to a downstairs private room with an open kitchen and a narrow, cozy back space. Appetizer highlights include chargrilled octopus with crispy pork belly and roasted garlic, conjuring up the tastes of the Costa Brava. Another Portuguese treat, cod cakes served on a roasted chickpea purée, or the manila clams in a lime and basil broth could make a complete meal by themselves. The crowd-pleasing steak cooked over a stone could have used a bit more seasoning, but makes for a pleasant participatory experience. Dessert selections are extensive, with such traditional favorites as a custard tart with cinnamon, or silky sweet cream mousse with lemon and prunes.