Club Nau - Divine food by the beach

Nestled by the ‘Praia Grande’ beach in Ferragudo, Club Nau doesn’t just offer a meal - it’s a sensory journey. The fusion of fresh, local ingredients and bold, unexpected flavours make every dish a surprise. From the first sip of their signature non-alcoholic cocktail ‘Nau Passion’ to the last bite of dessert, this restaurant redefined what it means to enjoy a meal by the sea. It’s the kind of place where the view and the cuisine compete for your attention, but together, they create an unforgettable experience.

I had the absolute delight of trying a chef-curated selection of sushi that was nothing short of a masterpiece. The plate was a feast for both the eyes and the palate, with every detail of its presentation thoughtfully designed. A harmonious blend of colour, textures, and flavours came together beautifully like each piece was a work of art. From silky slices of salmon, tuna, bream, and toro sashimi, to inventive rolls featuring quail eggs, crab pâté, and creamy guacamole, every bite offered a burst of unexpected flavours. It was truly a culinary explosion that left a lasting impression.

For the main dish, I happily took the waiter’s recommendation to try the ‘Picanha Black Angus’, one of their signature meat specialities alongside the Tomahawk. Typically served as a dish for two, the picanha arrived with a choice of two side dishes selected from an extensive menu of mouthwatering options. From padrón peppers and wedge potatoes to a medley of vegetables, smashed potatoes, fried bananas, or rice with beans, the possibilities were endless. I opted for the wedge potatoes, padrón peppers, and an extra serving of rice with beans - and I was far from disappointed. The picanha was incredibly tender, medium-well, and grilled to perfection, just as I requested it.

I was so captivated by the incredible flavour of the dish that I couldn’t bring myself to try any of the sauces they had available – as pepper sauce, mushroom sauce, chimichurri, among others - though I’d encourage any sauce enthusiast to give them a go! To complement the meal, I enjoyed a glass of house red wine: Dão, a remarkable selection from the Dão region, located just south of the Douro Valley. It paired beautifully with the main dish, enhancing every bite with its rich, full-bodied flavour.

Last, but certainly not least, it was time for dessert. Club Nau offers a delightful selection of five homemade desserts, each crafted with unique ingredients to satisfy every taste. Currently, you can choose from a rich chocolate brownie, a banoffee cup, a unique pear crumble, a white chocolate Crème Brûlée, or a vegan carrot cake. Choosing just one might be a challenge, but rest assured, no matter what you decide, I’m sure you will love it. I opted for the chocolate brownie, which was served with ice cream and chopped almonds, and it was beyond words.

One of the best features of Club Nau is its authenticity and originality. They expertly blend traditional flavours with a modern twist, creating dishes you won’t find anywhere else. Club Nau stands out not only for its diverse menu, which caters to every taste, but also for its inviting atmosphere, stunning views, and the warmth of its staff. One of the venue’s highlights is the live music, which, during the summer months takes place every day and during the winter months, fills the space on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, creating a lively yet cosy vibe that draws in guests of all ages - whether families or groups of friends. The expansive outdoor areas, including the covered terrace, balcony, and beachside spaces, provide a perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment, adding to the overall charm of the place.

Club Nau‘s clients, whether Portuguese locals, expats, or tourists - keep returning to the site because it offers something truly unique. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink, a light snack, or a full meal. With a wide variety of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, it is suitable for every dietary preference, making it a place where everyone feels welcome. Club Nau is available for private events and weddings for most of the year, making it an ideal venue for special occasions. Open year-round - except for Tuesdays during the low season - you can enjoy delicious food starting from noon onwards. Plus, the venue is pet-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend along to join the fun!

Now it’s your turn to experience everything Club Nau has to offer. From its mouthwatering food and stunning views to its warm, welcoming atmosphere and live music. Whatever you are looking for, Club Nau delivers it all. Once you give it a try, you’ll find yourself coming back time and time again.

Club Nau

Praia Grande, 8401-906, Ferragudo

(+351) 282 484 414

bookings@club-nau.com

Club

Monday – Sunday

from 10:00 to 22:00

Kitchen

Monday – Sunday

from 12:00 to 21:00

After studying Journalism for five years in the UK and Malta, Sara Durães moved back to Portugal to pursue her passion for writing and connecting with people. A ‘wanderluster’, Sara loves the beach, long walks, and sports. 

Sara J. Durães