The story
Volta Do Mar, located in the heart of Chelsea, is a modern Portuguese restaurant that draws its inspiration from the historic trade routes of the Portuguese-speaking world. The name, meaning “Return from the Sea,” reflects the personal and culinary journey of co-founders Simon and Isabel Mullins. Together, they have created a menu that spans Portugal, Brazil, Africa, and Asia, weaving together influences from Mozambique to Japan, Macau to Goa.
The restaurant is helmed by Isabel Almeida da Silva, a Portuguese hospitality veteran with over 27 years of experience, including time at The Wolseley and Marco Pierre White’s Mirabelle, as well as a stint at the Michelin-starred Joël in Atlanta. She manages both front and back of house, contributes to menu development, and crafts cocktails rooted in Portuguese tradition. Simon Mullins, who previously co-founded the acclaimed Salt Yard Group, oversees the business side, interior design, and wine list.
The space itself is intimate and relaxed, with 40 covers in the main dining room, a 12-seater private dining area, and a charming outdoor terrace. The atmosphere is welcoming yet refined — suited for a weekday lunch, a pre-theatre dinner, or a leisurely evening with friends. The menu includes options like bacalhau à brás and a Goan-inspired curry, alongside a selection of vegetarian dishes. A set lunch menu offers an accessible midday option for the local Chelsea crowd.
Volta Do Mar has earned a Michelin recommendation, a nod to its thoughtful cooking and warm hospitality. The restaurant also hosts seasonal events, including wine pairing dinners with a six-course tasting menu, and showcases a rotating collection of art from local and international artists, all available for purchase.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant spices of Mozambique or the tropical notes of Brazil, Volta Do Mar offers a genuine taste of the Portuguese-speaking world, right in the heart of London.
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