The renowned chef, Rui Mira, is committed to using premium local produce prepared with great technique and with respect for seasonality. Thoughtfully selected local wines are carefully paired with each dish.

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We were welcomed with a delightfully original cocktail based on Madeira wine with notes of coffee, cinnamon and celery.

Then, to begin the feast - local oysters, from the Ria de Alvor, in a lemongrass and ginger vinaigrette alongside the couvert of sourdough bread and Algarvian olive oil. Espumante - Quê from Quinta do Barranco Longo - was a perfect accompaniment. A blend of arinto and chardonnay grapes, it was a lovely yellow colour, elegant with gentle bubbles and hints of citrus, honey, apricots and fennel.

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Delicate strips of sea bass belly cured in citrus and smoked salt followed. Then, an unexpected treat from the chef - raw tuna belly, which was a beautifully marbled red colour, unctuous and exquisite with a soft buttery texture. A highlight!

A more robust, very tasty course of scrambled eggs with tomato and muxama (dried tuna) was served alongside battered octopus with romesco sauce and roast garlic. Again, a local wine, Arvad, made from arinto and alvarinho grapes, matched well with the food, being slightly salty with a hint of minerality.

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Sea bass with celery purée, asparagus and leek beurre blanc blended interesting flavours whilst maintaining the local sea and coastal theme. A lively, fruity, Paxa negra mole rosé, lighter than a pinot noir, with less acidity, but similar, complemented the dish agreeably.

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Dessert was a delicious, refreshing mix of orange mousse, crumble, and sorbet. And to finish, another offering from Quinta do Barranco Longo, this time a late harvest wine, provided the perfect end to an exceptional meal.

As always, the occasion was made even more special by the excellent company of fellow guests. A convivial atmosphere, an intimate setting in beautiful surroundings and a wonderful gastronomic experience, made for a very special and enjoyable lunch.

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Thanks to Marie-Anne Ferran – Chancelier, Chargée de Missions, Algarve.

The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, as an International Association of Gastronomy established in over 75 countries, always welcome new enthusiastic members, amateurs and professional, who share the same values of quality, fine dining, conviviality, the encouragement of the culinary arts and the pleasures of the table. If you would like to know more about the Chaîne, don’t hesitate to contact us by e-mail: ma@monchique.com or visit www.chainedesrotisseurs.com

By Dr. Jean Mott