Algarve food scene celebrates new menus and international acclaim
Ocean returns with Essência
Ocean, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant at Vila Vita Parc, in Porches, reopens with ‘Essência’, a new tasting menu by Hans Neuner.
After five years exploring global culinary routes, the chef distils those influences into a refined, personal interpretation of Portuguese cuisine.
Comprising around 15 courses, the menu revisits iconic dishes with technical precision and contemporary flair. Highlights include a reinterpretation of francesinha with carabineiro prawn and a refined take on frango piri-piri.
The result is a focused, ingredient-led experience rooted in tradition and shaped by international perspective.
Algarve olive oil shines in New York
Local producer Monterosa was awarded gold and silver at the NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition, one of the most prestigious contests in the sector. Its Cerro de São Miguel extra virgin olive oil, known for its intense fruitiness, received gold, whilst the Maçanilha variety earned silver.
Produced in Moncarapacho, Olhão, Monterosa now ranks fourth in Portugal and 18th worldwide, among more than 1,000 extra virgin olive oils assessed, according to Olive Oil Times’ international ranking.
With 29 international awards to date, Monterosa continues to cement its reputation among the world’s top producers.
Repsol Guide celebrates Algarve dining
The Repsol Guide has unveiled its latest Portugal edition, awarding 120 restaurants and reinforcing its growing presence in the country.
In the Algarve, Vila Joya (Albufeira) and Vista (Portimão) received the top distinction of three Suns, bringing Portugal’s total to six at this level.
The new Repsol Guide Restaurants category (akin to the Michelin Recommended) also highlights regional dining, including À do João, Check in by Leonel Pereira and Estaminé, in Faro; A Tia Bia and Cafézique, in Loulé; and MesaFarta, in Tavira.
Sustainability remains in focus, with Vista also awarded a Sustainable Sun for its long-standing commitment to Atlantic-inspired cuisine.
Amara restaurant unveils new menu
Amara, at Four Seasons Fairways in Quinta do Lago, has introduced a new menu by Faro-born chef Nelson Candeias, marking the opening of its outdoor terrace.
Designed for intimate al fresco dining, the concept blends local inspiration with refined technique.
Dishes include seared scallops with caramelised shallot purée, prosciutto and sparkling wine beurre blanc, and roasted lamb loin with pumpkin and goat cheese cannelloni.
Jazz Nights add to the atmosphere on select dates in June, July and August featuring André Capela and Cathy Borges. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.
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