M. Canales

Updated Monday, March 11, 2024-01:16

In recent years,

The Algarve,

one of the most desired and visited tourist destinations in Europe, has also become an

international

gastronomic reference .

The southern region of Portugal, famous for its natural environment, its spectacular beaches and charming towns where traditions still endure, is now also a mecca for foodies

,

who seek the latest and best in its cuisine.


Inspired by the sea, the land and the sun,

the essence of the Mediterranean diet

, there are many restaurants that have proliferated in the area and, in a short time, have achieved recognition around the world.

So much so that The Algarve is one of the regions of Portugal with the most Michelin stars, with a total of ten currently.

Its coastal location makes it a paradise for lovers of fish, seafood and also its traditional preserves, which in the past were an economic engine for many parts of the region.

Baked fish

is

one of the most famous traditional dishes, as well as

cataplana

, a fish or seafood stew named after the container in which it is cooked: a copper or brass pan that closes tightly, so everything is steamed.

But there is much more to the gastronomy of the neighboring country and great chefs with innovative proposals with tradition as a premise.

We propose a culinary route through the Michelin-starred restaurants of the Algarve, which have just been revalidated by

the prestigious Guide

at the gala held last February in the coastal town of Albufeira.


Ocean Vila Vita Parc

Proposal from the Ocean restaurant inspired by the Route of Discoveries.

Located on the sea, with spectacular views of the Atlantic, the coast and the sunsets, the Ocean restaurant, belonging to the Vila Vita Parc resort, in the town of Porches, has

two Michelin stars

, thanks to chef Hans Neuner and his team.

Of Austrian origin, Neuner came to the Algarve in 2007 in search of inspiration, and found it in Portuguese cuisine.

The first star was won two years later, in 2009, and the second, in 2011. Its only tasting menu,

Memories from Brazil,

of 12 courses, includes delicacies such as imperial caviar with smoked eel, lobster with chorizo, Algarve monkfish, Kobe beef with mushrooms...

Price

:

255 euros,

without pairing.

Vila Joya

In Albufeira, within Hotel Vila Joya, is this elegant and intimate establishment led for decades by Austrian chef Dieter Koschina.

The renowned restaurant has had

two Michelin stars

since 1999 and offers combinations of flavors in light and fresh dishes.

For both lunch and dinner,

Chef Dieter Koschina's Favorites

is served , a menu consisting of four courses that change every day depending on the seasonal produce.

Price: 250 euros

, without drink.

Vista-Bela Restaurant

At the Vista Hotel & Spa Relais & Châteaux hotel in Portimão, João Oliveira leads the imaginative and elegant cuisine of this restaurant with incredible views that

has just joined the Michelin firmament this year

with one star.

The cuisine, influenced by the flavors of the Mediterranean, has its roots in the culinary traditions of Portugal.

The freshness and flavors of regional products stand out in the chef's creative dishes, whose goal is to combine traditional Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine.

Fish predominates in the 12-course tasting menu.

Price

: 200 euros, without pairing.

Gusto by Heinz

In this restaurant with an open kitchen at the luxurious Conrad Algarve resort, in the town of Almancil, the German Heinz Beck, one of the most valued chefs with three Michelin stars in Europe, plays with Portuguese tradition and international trends, achieving a Vibrant menu of Mediterranean cuisine with a 21st century touch that has deserved a star.

Nine dishes, including prawns with carrots, galangal and cardamom sauce, scallop with artichoke and black truffle, tortelini stuffed with broccoli, fish and seafood or beef tenderloin with terrine of winter roots and smoked pepper sauce, make up the tasting menu.

Price: 180 euros

, without pairing.

Bon Bon Restaurant

The commitment of this

one-star

establishment located in Sesmarias, Carvoeiro Beach (Lagoa) is clear: supporting local producers and bringing traditions back to the table, giving a contemporary touch to the most traditional gastronomy.

The young chef José Lopes and his team are in charge of making this happen, with modern and traditional dishes made with the freshest products and that show the best of Portuguese gastronomy.

It has two tasting menus, sea and mountain, with six and nine moments, respectively, and each with its vegetarian version.

Price: from 115 euros.

Let's See Tavira

Opened in 2006, A Ver Tavira is a true tribute to the city of Tavira and the magic of its historic center.

Its chef, Luís Brito, seeks to reclaim in contemporary Portuguese cuisine not only its roots but also the experiences acquired around the world through contact with people, cultures, colors, aromas and, above all, tastes, which are represented in his dishes. star.

The restaurant with a Michelin star has three tasting menus: lunch (7 courses for 160 euros), dinner (10 courses for 220 euros) and vegetarian (155 euros).

Al Sud Restaurant

At Palmares Ocean Living & Golf in Lagos, surrounded by stunning natural surroundings overlooking Lagos Bay, this elegant one-

star

space combines the art, precision and experience of chef Louis Anjos (he worked in San Sebastián with Martín Berasategui ) in the table.

Memorable Moments

is the 15-course tasting menu that includes traditional Algarve recipes with local products (a wide variety of fish, seafood, meats and vegetables) as the star.