Razor clams Bulhão Pato style
The razor clams were our favorite dish at O Frade. Sweet, delicate clams came in a garlicky, herby sauce that made the bread feel essential. The sauce brought savory depth without taking attention away from the clams. This is the order I would come back for, especially with bread to soak up what is left.
Beef tartare and squid with garlic
We also tried the beef tartare and Frade’s squid with garlic. The tartare was rich and fresh, giving the table another direction alongside the warm comfort dishes. The squid continued the garlic thread running through the seafood part of the meal. Both fitted an order designed to be shared across the table.
Duck rice
The duck rice brought a savory, comforting center to the spread, with tender duck running through the rice. After the lighter, delicate flavor of the clams, it gave us a richer plate to keep returning to. It was one of the dishes that made this feel like a meal for taking your time.
Stewed oxtail and Iberian pork
The stewed oxtail with vegetables combined tender meat with a rich, comforting sauce. Iberian pork à Alentejo rounded out the order, adding another substantial meat dish to the table. Come hungry and share: our meal covered a lot of ground, from the delicate clams to these much heartier plates.
The restaurant context
O Frade is listed in the Michelin Guide. My own reason to recommend this meal starts with the razor clams, then the range of Portuguese comfort dishes we could share. The contrast between seafood and slow-cooked meat made ordering several dishes feel worthwhile.
Sources & restaurant context
Menu & availability
These notes describe my visit. Dishes, prices and special offers may change; check the restaurant’s current menu before you go.
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