Discover Fabio’s American Dream - Fabio's Roadstop

I met with the owner of the restaurant, Fabio, who shared the story behind his unique establishment, inspired by traditional American dining. We also spoke about his passion for hospitality and exciting plans for the future.

By Tereza Pedro, in Food & Drink, Algarve · 17 Aug 2025, 12:01 · 0 Comments

A few years ago, Fabio went for a road trip through the United States, visiting San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles and other iconic cities. Having worked in hospitality for many years, what really caught his eye were American steak houses and roadside diners he encountered along the way. These places weren’t just about the food, but about atmosphere and experience. Typical neon signs, retro-styled booths and the smell of grilled burgers, all this stuck with Fabio. Coming back from the U.S., he returned to his work in a restaurant, while holding onto a big dream of opening a place of his own one day.

Overcoming the adversities

In 2019, after thorough research, he found the right space to launch his new business in Armação de Pêra. Fabio created a restaurant with a stylish interior, undeniably American, with his own vision for quality and creativity. Offering burgers, steaks and other American-inspired meals. They opened just before the Covid-19 outbreak, which didn’t make things easy, but thanks to their unique concept, they quickly built a loyal customer base.

“It's an American restaurant that joins our unique concept in which we value the quality of our products and carry out daily tests to improve the results of our food”, he explains.

Every detail matters

Fabio is deeply involved in every detail of the restaurant; you can always find him around - in the kitchen, serving food, or speaking with customers. He is the one behind the interior design, menu innovations, team training, greeting guests and all the daily operations.

The restaurant offers a variety of menus. In the morning, you can choose from the breakfast and snacks menu, which includes English, continental and Fabio’s signature breakfast, as well as wraps, smoothie bowls, pancakes and salads.

The menu

The main menu features finger foods like chicken wings, onion rings, breaded shrimp, along with a wide range of burgers and hot dogs with creative toppings and sides. You’ll also find Fabio’s unique specials and a dedicated kids' menu. The kitchen is open all day to serve you.

“With fresh ingredients of high quality, our dishes are prepared with lots of affection and love, to guarantee a unique and memorable experience. We use only premium Black Angus from Argentina,” the owner explains.

Fabio’s Roadstop pays close attention to every detail, ensuring each dish is presented with care and a special touch. Their amazing cocktails, smoothies and milkshakes are key parts of the menu.

“Our team is passionate and committed to constantly improving. We believe in learning, experimenting, and refining our craft to deliver food of the highest quality and consistency.”

Feeling at home

The goal of our restaurant is to make you feel like you're at home — a place where you can create joyful memories with friends and family while enjoying the very best they have to offer.

If you are looking for a venue to host a birthday party, Fabio is happy to help you with all the arrangements. For a child’s birthday, he can assist with everything from themed decorations and birthday cakes to renting a bouncy castle.

New plans

Fabio has plenty of plans. He is waiting for approval from the city council to build a new terrace, where he hopes to organise themed nights with live music. Fabio’s plan is also to get a food truck, to be able to attend Champions Burger, a gastronomic event, where he got an invitation already received several times. It’s a travelling event, visiting multiple cities and featuring food trucks where visitors can try the best burgers.

When to go?

Located in Armação de Pêra, open all year round, on Tuesdays for dinner and from Wednesday till Sunday from 10am till 11pm (in the summer months until midnight).

Fabio stands out as a restaurant owner with vision, soul, and an authentic love for what he does. His story is proof that with dedication, creativity, and heart, it’s possible to turn a road trip dream into a reality.

Fabio’s Roadstop is a very special restaurant with an American spirit and a unique design that can rival those you find in the States. Here you can experience not just American food, but the entire atmosphere.

Tereza Pedro is originally from Slovakia and now based in the Algarve, with a master’s in mass media. Passionate about lifestyle and storytelling, she captures the essence of daily life through a blend of creativity, international perspective, and coastal living—all while raising her son.