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O bufete é ótimo, só que o noivo é alérgico a marisco.

O bufete é ótimo, só que o noivo é alérgico a marisco.
The buffet is great, but the groom is allergic to seafood.
From Lesson 358:Contrastive connector (só que)·Portuguese (Portugal)

Questions & Answers about O bufete é ótimo, só que o noivo é alérgico a marisco.

Why use só que here instead of just mas?
Só que is a highly conversational way to introduce a contrast or complication, similar to saying 'the only thing is that' or 'except' in English. While mas (but) is perfectly correct, só que specifically highlights the second part as a hurdle or a 'catch' to the otherwise great buffet.
Does só que trigger the subjunctive mood?
No, só que is followed by the indicative mood. That is why we see é (indicative) rather than seja (subjunctive) in the second clause. Even though it introduces a contrast, it simply states a factual, objective complication.
Why use the permanent verb ser in é alérgico rather than estar?
Being allergic is considered a permanent trait or chronic condition in Portuguese, so it takes the verb ser. If you wanted to describe a temporary allergic reaction happening right now, you would usually use estar with a noun phrase, such as ele está com uma alergia (he is having an allergic reaction).
Why is marisco singular here when it refers to seafood in general?
In Portugal, marisco is typically used as an uncountable mass noun to mean seafood or shellfish in general, exactly like the English word 'seafood'. You would only use the plural mariscos if you were specifically emphasizing various different types or species of shellfish.

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