Head Chef Henrique Mouro

The dining room is small and intimate, with beiges, reds and graphics of Lisbon.  A private dining room is located on the lower floor.  This is known as the Chef’s Table.  Guests sitting in this special space have a vantage point to view kitchen operations through a large window at the far end of the room, enhancing their dining experience. 

Assinatura Dining Room

The restaurant is beautiful but, of course, Chef Mouro would prefer that his guests enjoy the “traditional creativity” of his menu.  Portuguese recipes are prepared with inventive and inspired flair.  Select from starters such as:  lobster on a cold stew;  bonbon of cherries, goat cheese and flowers; or, velvety chicken, honeycomb and almond.   This being Portugal, fish and seafood are heavily represented with:  squid and monkfish with potatoes and olives; sole and scallops baked, smoked and wrapped; grilled tuna, with pineapples from the Azores and sweet potato.   There are a selection of meats as well:  cold terrine of rabbit, olive bread and a salad;  loin of lamb, figs, grapes and signature spices; Veal Maronesa; pork tenderloin with creamed snails.  The dessert course features:  strawberries in a river of mint; coconut pastry with pineapple and mint; and, peaches baked in custard.

Grilled Tuna at Assinatura

According to Chef Mouro, “authenticity is based in the kitchen, my kitchen, that I use to delight those who visit; where the “client” ceases to be, but instead becomes a friend.” 

Tasting menus are available.

More information at Assinatura Website

Assinatura
Rua Vale do Pereiro , 19
(near the corner of Rua Alexandre Herculano)
1250-270 Lisboa

Reservations:  +351 213 867 696
Email:  restaurante@assinatura.com.pt

Lunch Monday to Friday:  12:30 – 15:00
Dinner Monday to Thursday:  19:30 – 22:30
Dinner Friday & Saturday:  19:30 – 23:30
Closed Sunday

Most Euro-hipsters already know of PuroBeach as a hot night spot in the Spanish locations of central Mallorca, Palm de Mallorca and Marbella.  Finally, Swedish entrepreneur brings the PuroBeach concept to Portugal. 

Lakeside at PuroBeach Vilamoura

The “lounge” is actually outside and by the lake on the grounds of the seafront Tivoli Marina Hotel.  The tropical gardens and ocean breezes make for an exotic ambiance to enjoy fine dining and various themed parties.  Musical beats are generated by resident and special guest DJs, and occasional live performances. 
 
Themed Parties for the Summer Season Include: 
July
03 – Purobeach Official Opening Party
24 – Full Moon Party
30 – Champagne Party
31 – M80 Party

August
03 – Pink Flamingo Party
05 – Fashion TV Party
10 – Absolut Generation
12 – Redbull Party
14 – RFM Party
17 – Full Moon Party

Also Note:  During the day, PuroBeach also offer daytime luxury beach services in front of the hotel.  Cool vibes are spun by a DJ as you relax in comfortable lounges.  You can also take a Tai Chi class, or reserve time for a beachfront massage. 

Puro Beach Vilamoura Information
Hotel Tivoli Marina
Marina Vilamoura
Phone:  +351 289 303 303

Email:  info.vilamoura@purobeach.com
Website:  PuroBeach Website

Nightly:  June to September
Hours:   19:00 to 2:00

See you there….

Festival Mediterranean (or Med Fest) is a four day celebration of  various styles of music, food, visual arts and street theater from principal countries of the Mediterranean basin.  Now in it’s seventh year, the 2010 edition is now upon us:  23-26 June 2010.

Seventh Edition of the Festival Med in Loulé

The Municipality of Loulé really knows how to throw a party.  (This editor can acutely attest to that!)   Like many of their street parties, MedFest is spread out over plazas, through winding old streets, inside markets and next to historic castle walls.  Locals from Loulé, residents of the Algarve region, and tourists from all over the world mix and mingle, dance and eat, to the Mediterranean beat. 

The main attractions are the musical acts.  Each night, numerous artists will perform on six stages erected throughout the town.  Attendees are free to wander around and visit all the venues. 

When you finally tire of dancing, refuel by visiting one of the many stands selling a multitude of Mediterranean flavors.  Restaurants representing the cuisine of Greece, Morocco and Italy will be on hand to satisfy your hunger.  And, of course, don’t miss the excellent Portuguese cuisine, with special emphasis on the Algarve.

Portugal Lifestyle at Its Best Blog looks forward to seeing your there!

Location: Loulé City Center

Dates:  23-26 June 2010

Cacique 97, One of the Acts at Festival MED 2010

Concert Schedule

Wednesday, 23 June

20:30 – Tocando Polirando (Arco Stage) 
21:00 – Abmiram (Bica Stage) 
21:30 – Zeca Medeiros  (Castelo Stage) 
21:45 – Amparo Sanchéz  (Cerca Stage) 
22:00 – Nanook “O Vagabundo”  (Arco Stage) 
22:45 – Femi Kuti & The Positive Force  (Matriz Stage) 
23:30 – Chinese Monkeys  (Castelo Stage) 
00:00 – Vieux Farka Touré   (Cerca Stage) 
00.15 – Isa Brito  (Bica Stage)

Thursday, 24 June

20:30 – Duo João Cuña e Luis Fialho  (Arco Stage) 
21:00 – Nuno Reis & The Positronics  (Bica Stage) 
21:30 – Mazgani (Castelo Stage) 
21:45 – Cacique’97 (Cerca Stage) 
22:45 – Goran Bregovic and His Wedding & Funeral Band (Matriz Stage) 
23:30 – Andersen Molière (Castelo Stage) 
00:00 – King Khan & The Shrines (Cerca Stage) 
00:15 – Bandoo Roots (Bica Stage) 

Friday, 25 June

21:00 – Atma  (Bica Stage) 
21:30 – Galandum Galundaina (Castelo Stage) 
21:45 – 3 Pianos (Matriz Stage) 
22:00 – Quinteto Amar Guitarra & Betty M (Arco Stage) 
22:45 – Anaquim (Cerca Stage) 
23:30 – The Legendary Tiger Man (Castelo Stage) 
23:45 – Orchestra Baobab  (Matriz Stage) 
00:15 – Draska  (Bica Stage) 
01:15 – Watcha Clan (Cerca Stage) 

Saturday, 26 June

20:30 – Nobre Ventura  (Arco Stage) 
21:00 – Pucarinho (Bica Stage) 
21:30 – Diabo na Cruz  (Castelo Stage) 
21:45 – René Aubry (Matriz Stage) 
22:45 – Virgem Suta  (Cerca Stage) 
23:30 – Orelha Negra (Castelo Stage) 
23:45 – Mercan Dede & The Secret Tribe (Matriz Stage) 
00:15 – Flazzajados  (Bica Stage) 
01:15 – Boom Pam (Cerca Stage) 

For more information: click here.

Tickets are available at all CTT (post office) locations
-     Daily Ticket:  €12.50  (full day access)
-     Week Ticket:  €40.50  (full day access, all four days)
-     Premium Ticket:  €60.50  (weekly ticket, official T-shirt, free parking in local municipal lot, preferential entry)

Dates are 21, 22, 27, 29 & 30 May 2010.

Such top acts as Shakira, Elton John, Miley Cyrus, Leona Lewis and Motorhead will participate.  As well, many world-renowned Portuguese artists will also be on hand, such as Mariza, Trovante and Xutos & Pontapés.

2010 marks the seventh edition of this world rock festival.  The first event was organized by Brazilian entrepreneur Roberto Medina in 1985 in Rio de Janeiro.  Since that time, the rock music festival has been held three times in Brazil and three times in Portugal.  This year´s event in Lisbon will be repeated a week later in Madrid. 

The event at Lisbon’s Parque da Bela Vista will comprise three stages positioned n the vast public park land.  And , this year venue includes a roller, coaster, free fall, spinning wheel and other attractions. 

Location:  Parque da Bela Vista (Parque hours are from 4:00pm to 4:00am)

Concert Schedule

Friday, 21 May
Main Stage (7:00pm to 1:30am) – Shakira, John Mayer, Ivete Sangalo, Mariza
Sunset Stage (5:00pm to 8:45pm) – Boss AC & Yuri Cunha, Portugal Orquestrada & Segredos, Azeitonas & António Zamujo
Electronica Stage (9:00pm to 4:00am) – Deadmau5, Chris Lake feat. Soul_Mates, Pedro Tabuada & King Bizz

Shakira will Perform on 21 May

Saturday, 22 May
Main Stage (7:00pm to 1:30am) – Elton John, Leona Lewis, Trovante
Sunset Stage (5:00pm to 8:45pm) – Rui Veloso & Maria Rita + Toni Garrido, Tiago Bettencourt & Mantha + Tiê, Soulbusiness & Zoey Jones
Electronica Stage (9:00pm to 4:00am) – Major Lazer, Drop the Lime, Zombie Kids feat. Aqeel, Jamie XX

John Mayer Performs 21 May

Thursday, 27 May
Main Stage (7:00pm to 1:30am) – Muse, Snow Patrol, Xutos & Pontapés
Sunset Stage (5:00pm to 8:45pm) – Jorge Palma & Zeca Baleiro, Expensive Soul & Bluey/Incognito + Omar, Nusoulfamily & Julie McKnight
Electronica Stage (9:00pm to 4:00am) – Gui Boratto, The Twelves, Miguel Quintão, Tha Bloody Bastards feat. Mad Mac & Nuno Lopes

Saturday, 29 May
Main Stage (7:00pm to 1:30am) – Miley Cyrus, McFly, D’ZRT
Sunset Stage (5:00pm to 8:45pm) – Luís Represas & Martinho da Vila, Tim & Mariza, Lúcia Moniz & Mister Lizard
Electronica Stage (9:00pm to 4:00am) – Dubfire, DJ Jibe, Audiofly, Davide Squillace, Tó Ricciardi

Miley Cyrus Performs 29 May

Sunday, 20 May
Main Stage (7:00pm to 1:30am) – Rammstein, Motorhead
Sunset Stage (5:00pm to 8:45pm) – Ramp & Hail, More than a Thousand & Guest, Guest & Fingertips
Electronica Stage (9:00pm to 4:00am) – Green Velvet, Speedy J, Paul Ritch, Jim Masters, Jiggy, Heartbreakerz

For more information and to buy tickets, click here.

Tickets also available at most FNAC stores, Millennium BCP branches, Abreu agencies, CP Train ticket counters, and BP locations.

The Bar at Unique Chiado in Lisbon

Unique is the new dining project from Portugal’s most noted fashion designer Fatima Lopes.  Her influence permeates throughout the restaurant from dinnerware and cutlery, to staff uniforms and upholstery.  The cuisine is traditional Portuguese with international influences, and Lopes intends meal pricing to be accessible to all.     

Head Chef John Slater is master of the menu for Unique.  Slater background includes winning  Junior Chef, from the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS) in New Zealand in 2006, graduating from the School of Hospitality and Tourism in Lisbon, apprenticing at the Hotel Ritz, the restaurant Bica do Sapato and Hotel Four Seasons Resort Provence, France.    

Unique Chiado is open late, until 2:00am.  In fact, there are special menus specifically designed for the later time period.  Lopes invites you to a new world of fashion, glamour and entertainment.     

(Editors note:  after dinner, you are just a short walk to the ultra-hip lounge, Silk.)    

Rua Paiva de Andrade
(across from the São Carlos Theatre)

But, if you´re like us, you want something very special…maybe a little trendy…certainly good service…steps to the beach…and a view to die for.  So, we have compiled a short list of what we consider to be some “gems” in the Algarve hotel crown; extraordinary accommodations with extraordinary ambiance;  cool and unique Algarve Beach Hotels (below by location from west Algarve to east). 

Hotel Memmo Baleeira  – Sagres

Sagres sits on the south-western most point of Europe.  It is known for its extraordinarily spectacular beaches and sea views from tall cliffs, as well as a surfers paradise due to high cresting waves just off this coast.  The multi-award-winning Memmo Baleeria is a design hotel taking full advantage of this remarkable location. 

Memmo Baleeira Hotel, Sagres

But the natural splendour is just only one side to this very special hotel.  Perfectly situated overlooking the sea and harbour, the Memmo Baleeira offers relaxing, contemporary atmosphere ideal for a weekend break or an extended holiday retreat. 

Te resort offers 144 rooms and family friendly suites, restaurant, bar, coffee shop, swimming pool with magnificent ocean views and a modern Spa equipped with a sauna, Turkish bath, gym, heated indoor pool and massage rooms.

Unique to this hotel is its very own Surf Center.  Whether you are professional with a long board it is imperative that you spend some time with one of the Center’s pro-level team of surf coaches.  Learn to respect the motion of the ocean and enjoy this exhilarating sport. 

Afterwards, head to Memmo’s restaurant to enjoy a menu of Mediterranean flavours.  Keep and eye out for their sushi specials!!

Sitio da Baleeira, 8650-357,  Sagres
Reservations:  +351 282 624 212
More Information:  Memmo Baleeira Website

Blue & Green Vilalara Thalassa Resort - Porches

This ideally-situated hotel on the Praia das Gaivotas cliff overlooking the sea, this beautiful hotel offers an atmosphere perfectly suited for relaxation and well-being.  Six outdoor pools are laid out across a 12-hectare garden. 

Vilalara Thalassa Hotel, Porches

Be sure to take advantage of Portugal’s first thalassotherapy center.  This spa, originally designed by Jean Bobet of Biarritz, provides seawater-based treatments and therapies.  Seawater is an authentic source of vital elements. Its biological components and physiological composition containing 92 of the 120 known trace elements, similar to human plasma, permit metabolic renewal.  The spa also has a large variety of slimming and well-being programs.  

Two onsite restaurants offer Portuguese cuisine, with low-calorie menus, and a terrace grill near the pool offering Summer evening themed dinners. 

Vilalara has 100 junior suites, 11 suites and 13 apartments. The resort is truly a hidden utopia of rare beauty, set within a paradise offering an atmosphere of complete privacy and discretion.

Praia das Gaivatas, Alporchinos, Porches, 8400-450 Lagoa
Reservations:  +351 282 320 000
More Information:  Vilalara Website

Vila Vita Parc  – Porches

Who wants to stay inside when you can stroll around the sumptuous gardens or soak in the amazing sea views from this lush seaside oasis?  There are 54 acres of subtropical flora, distinctive Algarvean architecture, dramatic cliffside coastline and white sand beaches. 

Yet, once your senses have had their fill of nature’s beauty, come inside for what the resort refers to as “a pampered world of personalized and diverse experiences, flavored with Portuguese culture and hospitality.”  There is a large choice of accommodations, from beautifully-appointed rooms and suites, to villas and residences with terraces and ocean views. 

Vila Vita Parc, Porches

Vila Vita Parc offers a wide variety of gastronomic experiences.  Enjoy some of the best traditional Portuguese cuisine at Adega.  Or, head down to the beach and enjoy fresh fish at Arte Nautica.  For a special evening, visit the unique wine cellar vault Cave de Vinhos, with a wine tasting or an exclusive dinner.  But, no trip to Vila Vita Parc would be complete without an evening at The Ocean, Portugal’s newest restaurant to receive a Michelin star.

Another fine amenity of the resort is the Vila Vita Vital Spa, a facility for health and beauty with an emphasis on holistic wellness programs.  Among the treatments on offer are fragrant steam and algae baths, classic and Far Eastern massages, as well as an extensive offer of high-quality beauty care.

Alporchinhos, P-8400 – 450, Porches
Reservations:  +351 282 310 100 
More Information:  Vila Vita Parc Website

Vila Joya  – Galé

Vila Joya is a triple threat to all other accommodations in Portugal!

First, you have a lovely boutique hotel.  Each room is uniquely designed.  Every detail from fabrics to furniture embodies a high standard of style and quality.  Hand-selected artwork befits each and every room.  Each and every room and suite is a different size and shape.  At Vila Joya, you feel like you are staying in someone’s sumptuous home. 

Vila Joya Hotel, Galé

You’ll have to step outside the room, however, to enjoy the extraordinary resort grounds and astounding views.  Built on a cliff, the hotel has several levels of manicured gardens, including a lovely, peaceful pool area.  Enjoy drinks or afternoon tea on the hotel terrace or take the steps down to the very chic Xiringuito Beach Bar. 

And, finally, this hotel is home to what some consider, the best restaurant in all of Portugal.  In fact, Chef Dieter Koschina’s Vila Joya restaurant is the only restaurant in the country to be honoured with two Michelin stars.  This meal is an extraordinary experience until itself.

Vila Joya has much more on offer as well, such as the Joy Jung Spa, limo, helicopter and light plane transportation services, and many more surprises.   

Praia da Galé, 8201-902 Albufeira
Reservations:  +351 289 591 795
More Information:  Vila Joya Website

Sheraton Algarve Pine Cliffs – Albufeira

Stepping onto the Pine Cliffs Resort means leaving the rest of the world behind.  This massive resort is a world unto itself: a world you won’t want to leave.

The location, perched high on top of ochre-colored cliffs, above the sandy white beaches along the vast blue Atlantic is divine.  Stroll on the grassy grounds, or enjoy the sunset from a terrace on the edge of the cliff.  Take the iron elevator in the rock down the cliff to beach, and enjoy a meal at the seaside restaurant.

Sheraton Algarve, Albufeira

This Sheraton hotel is one of the few to be in their prestigious “Luxury Collection”.  The hotel itself is modern, but designed in a traditional Algarvean Portuguese style, with Moorish features such as courtyards and interior terraces.  The rooms are large and each enjoy a different view of the grounds or sea. 

Should you become bored with relaxing at the beach club or one of the many pools, the resort offers a large menu of activities including:  a golf academy with driving range and putting green;  a 9-hole golf course; a tennis academy;  a “health club” with heated indoor pool; and pathways around the property to take in the wonderful gardens.  Kids have fun too at their own Porto Pirata Kids Club.

Praia da Falesia, Apartado P.O. Box 644, Albufeira, 8200
Reservations:  +351 289 500 100
More Information:  Sheraton Algarve Website

Praia Verde Suite Hotel  – Castro Marim

Don’t you love “suite hotels”?  Part-time apartments, with full-time service.  Well, Praia Verde (our only selection for this category in the eastern Algarve) has lovely modern suite accommodations right on the beach. 

Praia Verde Suite, Castro Marim

40 fully-equipped suites offer separate bedroom and living room with balcony, kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave oven, satellite TV with LCD and DVD, and Internet access. 

The outdoor panoramic pool is a great space to relax in the sun in multi-colored bean-bags, or pull your chair to edge, face the beach and take in the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.  At night, the pool deck transforms into a trendy lounge with ambient music and an ideal atmosphere for making new friends on a Summer night. 

Praia Verde – Altura, 8950-434 Castro Marim     
Reservations:  +351 281 530 600
More Information:  Praia Verde Website

If we’ve missed an Algarve beach hotel that YOU consider cool and unique….tell us about it in the comments below!

Amadeus Cup II, Vilamoura, Algarve – 10 – 11, April 2010

The Vilamoura Marina in the central Algarve plays host to the second annual Amadeus Cup.  Sailors from Portugal and around the world are confirmed to attend, testing the waters of the Atlantic off Portugal’s southern coast. 

Vilamoura Marina, Home to Amadeus Cup 2010

This is a race of Dragon class ships, known for being a smaller, faster, sleek and elegant.  Originally designed in the 1920’s by Norwegian Johan Anker, this model of ship was raced competitively in the Olympics from 1948-1972.  There are just over 1400 dragons sailing worldwide, with the largest fleet docked in Germany.  Portugal is home to about 24 of the ships.    

The event honours Amadeu Baptista da Silva, the renowned sailor who died a decade ago.  Da Silva was among the first entrepreneurs to develop real estate in Vilamoura in the 1970’s.  His passion for the sea was integral in growing sailing at the regional level.  He participated in various tests of the Dragon class.  And, he was Commodore of the Clube International da Marina de Vilamoura (CIMAV), host of this event. 

More information:  CIMAV Website

Audi Med Cup – Portugal Trophy, Cascais – 11-16 May 2010

 
Now in its sixth season, the Audi Med Cup is acknowledged as the top regatta Circuit in the world today and attracts the very best designers, sailors and technicians.  This year the circuit begins in the western Portuguese city of Cascais (just 30 kilometers west of Lisbon).  The circuit continues with races in France, Spain and Italy.  

TP52 Day 1 - Quantum Racing, Portugal Trophy, 19 08 2009 © Ian Roman/ Audi MedCup

The classes of boats used in Audi MedCup Circuit are the TP52 and the GP42.  Although they may look similar to the untrained eye, they are subtly different from each other. 

Although some may think of sailing as a recreation, it is truly a mechanical sport.  Success comes to the team with the right combination of design innovation, preparation, speed, driving skill, reliability and good tactics. There is also the fact that sailing is an environmentally clean sport and, fundamentally it is about harnessing natural elements.  The winds change minute to minute, and day to day through a regatta, unlike an asphalt race track.

The schedule for this year includes: 

Portugal Trophy
Cascais, Portugal – May 11-16

Marseille Trophy
Marseille, France  - June 15-20

 Conde de Godó City of Barcelona Trophy
Barcelona, Spain – July 20-25

Caja Mediterráneo Region of Murcia Trophy
Cartagena, Spain – August 24-29

Region of Sardinia Trophy
Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy – September 20-25

Cascais will host the only event not located in the Mediterranean waters.   Open to the Atlantic, it has a reputation for stronger breezes and rolling swells that should prove to be exciting action for the sailors and spectators. 

Cascais Is the First Venue of Audi MedCup 2010

 Cascais started out as a fishing village, but gained famed as a resort for Portugal’s royal family in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.  Today, it is home to about 35,000 residents and it is one of the richest municipalities in Portugal.   

More information:  Audi MedCup Website

The Praça do Comércio in Lisbon

In its announcement, the awards organization described, ““A scenario combining the grandiosity of its history and a vanguard path toward its future, Lisbon is endowed with unique natural beauty and fascinating tourist attractions, which are intensified by the city and surrounding region’s diversity and quality.”

Castelo do São Jorge Overlooking Lisbon

For the award selection, the Brussels-based European Consumers’ Association proposed a list of ten cities focusing on quality of life and infrastructure, as well as offering cultural and tourism variety. In addition to Lisbon, other cities on the ballot were Barcelona, London, Copenhagen, Bilbao, Lyon, Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague and Helsinki. Voting took place between December 2009 and January 2010.

Popular & Trendy Baixa District

For the Association of European Consumers, the election reflects “a city that has retained all his soul and offering a gateway to tourism, without forgetting their social and cultural riches.”

More information at:

www.europeanconsumerschoice.org
www.visitlisboa.com

World Superbike Chamionship 2010 in Portimão

The bikes used on the track are built on the basis of production models rather than from prototypes.  While rules vary from series to series, in general the motorcycles must maintain the same profile as their roadgoing counterparts, with the same overall appearance as seen from the front, rear and sides. In addition, the frame cannot be modified. Teams may modify some elements of the bike, including the suspensions, brakes, swingarm, and the diameter and size of the wheels.

The seven factory teams competing this year include:  Aprilia, BMW, Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki & Yamaha.

When:  26 – 28 March, 2010
Where:  Algarve Autodrome, Portimão, Algarve
How:  You may book your ticklets online directly form the Autodrome (15% discount if you buy before 21 March) http://trackshop.autodromodoalgarve.com/SelectTickets.aspx
Or Call:  +351 282 405 600

North & Central Portugal

Arcadas da Capela – Chef:  Albano Lourenço; Consultant:  Joachim Koerper

Arcadas da Capela, Coimbra

In the historic XIV century manor house known as Quinta das Lágrimas, there is a convent-like yet romantic atmosphere, reminiscent of the story of forbidden lovers Pedro and Inês who once lived out their affair here. Executive Chief Albano Lourenço, under the direction of German Consultant Chef Joachim Koerper, prepares exquisite dishes utilizing traditional ingredients of the region.  Many ingredients are collected on the estate:  herbs from the gardens; oranges, lemons and avocados from the orchard; and raspberries and watercress in the fields.  Tasting menus are revised four times a year, inspired by the seasons.

Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas, Rua António Augusto Gonçalves, Coimbra
Reservations:  239 802 380
More Information:  Arcadas da Capela Website

Largo do Paço, Amarante

Largo do Paço – Chef:  Ricardo Costa

Located in the picturesque city of Amarante, between Porto and the Douro Valley, lies a beautiful XVI century palace, now home to boutique hotel Casa da Calçada.  The hallmark of this hotel is, Restaurante Largo do Paço, wehre Chef Ricardo Costa prepares Portuguese cuisine that has its roots in Luso tradition, yet evokes contemporary sophistication.  Favorite dishes include smoked sardines served with tomato confit, pepper jam, regional sausages and fresh vegetables drizzled with olive oil; and the Bisaro suckling pig with polenta cream, smoked ham, balsamic onions and Amarante jus. 

Largo do Paço, 6, Amarante, Porto
Reservations: +351 255 410 830
More Information:  Largo do Paço Website

Lisbon Area

 Eleven – Chef:  Joachim Koerper

Eleven, Lisbon

This modern and minimalist restaurant in Lisbon’s business district, overlooking the entire city.  Here Joachim Koeper,who has experience cooking in some of the world’s finest restaurants, creates menus in harmony with the seasons.  He has a passion for the tastes, colors and aromas of Mediterranean cuisine and southern European produce, which he infuses in the extraordinary dishes of Eleven, such as:  crayfish carpaccio with pineapple and sweet peppers; foie gras terrine with fig mousse and beetroot chutney; and, panna cotta with wasabi, red fruits and vanilla ice cream.

Av. Marquês da Fronteira, Jardim Amália Rodrigues, Lisbon
Reservations:  +351 213 862 211
More Information:  Eleven Website

Fortaleza do Guincho, Cascais

Fortaleza do Guincho

– Chef:  Antoine Westermann

Situated in the 17^th century fortress, the Fortaleza do Guincho Hotel is a showplace for this award-winning cuisine of French Chef Antoine Westermann.  Guests enjoy spectacular views out over the Atlantic Ocean and Cabo da Rocha, as they savor incomparable dishes.  Westerman, who earned critical acclaim at his Le Buerehiesel restaurant in Strasbourg, applies his heritage in French cuisine to this culinary tradition of Portugal.  Compliment this gastronomic experience with one of 800 selections from a wine list that Wine Spectator Magazine calls “one of the best in Portugal.”

Estrada do Guincho, Cascais
Reservations: +351 214 870 491
More Information:  Fortelezado GuinchoWebsite

Tavares – Chef:  José Avillez

Tavares, Lisbon

First opened in 1784 by Tavares Rico, this is Lisbon’s oldest restaurant.  It’s opulent décor of mirrored walls, gilded trim and crystal chandeliers evokes the grandeur of a bygone era, yet still provides dramatic ambience for one of Portugal’s finest meals. Chef José Avillez prepares French-inspired classics, including caviar, sole cooked in champagne sauce and seasonal game birds, roasted in a rich wine sauce.  Yet, Avillez also maintains his Portuguese roots with such fare as traditional bacalhau or the sopa alentejana (Alentejo-style soup that’s a concoction of garlic, bread, and egg).  An experience not to be missed.

Rua da Misericórdia, No. 35, Encarnação, Lisbon
Reservations:  +351 213 421 112
More Information:  Tavares Website

Algarve

Amadeus, Almancil

Amadeus – Chef Siegfied Danler-Heinemann

Although in the Algarve since 2003, Amadeus never ceases to amaze.  Austrian-born Chef Siegfried Danler-Heinemann specializes in a simplified approach to modern European gourmet cuisine, using the freshest seasonal ingredients and avoiding extravagant presentation.  Many different fixed-price menus are offered, and the wine list is, featuring a wide selection of Portuguese and international wines, is considered one the best in the region.  Just outside Almancil in the “golden triangle” of the central Algarve. 

Escanxinas, Estrada Almancil-Quarteira, Almancil
Reservations:  +351 289 399 134
More Information:  Amadeus Website

Henrique Leis – Chef Henrique Leis

Henrique Leis, Almancil

(Almancil)- Some call it intimate and rustic; some call it quaint Swiss-style chalet.  No matter the description of the comfortable ambiance, the cuisine of Brazilian Chef Henrique Leis is a stand out performance.  The international menu includes such creations as royal urchins and nuts oysters lukewarm Sabayon seaweeds,  filet- mignon de boeuf sauce au Porto et á la truffe, and lobster Sagres in two services.  A cuisine that celebrates the elegance and importance of details.  The wine list is equally impressive. 

Vale Formoso, Almancil
Reservations:  +351 289 393 438
More Information:  Henrique Leis Website

Ocean Restaurant, Porches

Ocean at Vila Vita Parc - Executive Chef Hans Neuner 

A couple years ago Austrian Chef Hans Neuner brought his unique approach to gourmet cuisine to this refined restaurant at Vila Vita Parc.  Blending traditional with the contemporary, he re-invents recipes using current methods and technical knowledge, with his own inspired finesse.  His emphasis is on the freshest, highest quality and locally sourced products.  More than 70 percent of the food products he uses are organic and most are procured regionally, including many from the resort’s own organic farm, Herdade Dos Grous.

Alporchinhos, Porches
Reservations:  + 351 282 310 100
More Information:  Ocean Website

São Gabriel – Chef:  Chef Torsten Schultz

São Gabriel, Almancil

With experience cooking across the globe, from New York to China, and Las Vegas to Spain, German-born Chef Torsten Schultz enjoys infusing these cultural experiences into his fine cuisine at this cozy restaurant in the Algarve.  Presentation of each dish is impeccable—each, a work of art unto itself.  The elegant interior of this former ambassador’s residence makes for a romantic evening not to be forgotten.  In the Summer, the patio offers al fresco dining among the lush sub-tropical Thai garden.   

Estrada Vale do Lobo – Quinta do Lago,  Almancil
Reservations: +351 289 394 521
More Information:  São Gabriel Website

Vila Joya, Galé

Vila Joya – Chef:  Dieter Koschina

Portugal’s only Michelin Two Star Restaurant.  Chef Dieter Koschina continues to win award-after-award for his gastronomic artistry and has turned this seaside hotel into Portugal’s best address for fine dining.  Austiran Chef Dieter Koschina regularly inspects the Algarve markets in search of the finest quality ingredients.  He buys lobster, crayfish and turbot from the local fishermen Algarve.  And he sources ingredients such as caviar and truffles from international markets.  Dinner is a set menu of six courses, except on Thursdays when Koschina serves his famous gala dinner with eight courses.

Praia da Galé, Galé, Albufeira
Reservations: +351 289 591 839
More Information:  Vila Joya Website

Willie’s – Chef:  Willie Wurger

Willies, Vilamoura

German born and trained Willie provides an exquisite and relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy his variety of international influenced cuisine. Elements of French, Italian and central European cuisine are enhanced by an extensive wine selection.  It is Willie’s desire to share his love for fine food with his guests, creating a relaxing atmosphere where the level of enjoyment and hospitality makes for a memorable dining experience.  The restaurant is quietly tucked away behind the Hilton hotel in the beautiful residential area of Vilamoura. 

Rua do Brazil, 2, Vilamoura
Reservations:  +351 289 380 849
More Information:  Willie’s Website

Madeira

Il Gallo d'Oro, Funchal

Il Gallo d`Oro -  Chef:  Benoît Sinthon

In the luxurious Cliff Bay hotel in Madeira, this classy restaurant offers elegant and formal (gentlemen are required to wear dinner jackets) dining, superb sea views and a real old world ambience. Gallic chef Benoît Sinthon is at the helm, and he has achieved no small feat- getting Madeira island its first Michelin star.  Cuisine inspired by Italy and the Mediterranean is the hallmark of this restaurant.  Try sampling:  trio of lobster, asparagus and wild mushrooms; turbot fillet cured, stuffed with scallops, caviar sauce and lobster medallion; symphony of chocolate.

The Cliff Bay Hotel, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
Reservations:  +351 291 707 700
More Information:  Il Gallo dÓro Website