Festive elegance: Step into a world of glamour and refinement with the distinctive offerings of Restaurante Authentic

By: Maria Simiris

This festive season, Authentic invites diners to enjoy an exclusive sensory experience blending Portuguese tradition with contemporary author cuisine

In Almancil, Authentic – known as one of the region’s most sophisticated dining destinations – invites lovers of fine cuisine to enjoy an exclusive sensory experience, defined by a balance between Portuguese tradition and contemporary author cuisine.

chef Ricardo Luz

Under the direction of chef Ricardo Luz, the Christmas and New Year’s Eve menus have been created to ensure every dish becomes a memorable celebration.

For dinners on December 25 and 26, the restaurant presents a menu that reimagines Portuguese classics with elegance and creativity. Among the highlights are lobster ravioli with a creamy bisque, cod loin with chickpea purée and Portuguese greens, and roast turkey with truffled purée, rice and roasted vegetables. Desserts include a selection of favourites such as bolo rei, yule log and sweet potato azevias. The menu is priced at €220 per person.

The celebration continues on New Year’s Eve, with a gala dinner designed to welcome 2026 in style.

Starters include refined choices such as Oscietra caviar served with handmade blinis, crème fraîche and chopped egg. The main courses bring together premium ingredients and polished techniques, including fresh lobster with cauliflower purée and citrus notes, turbot with champagne sauce and beef loin with truffle and Mourillos Jus.

To finish, the Golden Moment dessert layers almond, chocolate and coffee with pistachio and chocolate ice cream.

At midnight, cheer to the new year with a bottle of champagne for every two guests, accompanied by a late-night spread featuring prego in bolo do caco, chorizo bread, cheese and cured ham boards, and fruit skewers.

The New Year’s Eve menu is priced at €290 per person.

More than a restaurant, Authentic is a true sanctuary of hospitality and Portuguese fine dining. With stunning marble floors, an open kitchen, exclusive design furniture and flashy bathrooms, every detail has been considered to create an intimate atmosphere where classic luxury and comfort coexist in perfect harmony.

The wine list – meticulously curated and boasting an exceptional international range – elevates the entire culinary experience, turning each visit into a celebration of flavour, sophistication and authenticity.

For more information or reservations, the restaurant offers its website / [email protected] and telephone contacts (+351 289 005 782 / 924 194 746).