The Michelin Guide was in Portugal and left us with more stars

The Michelin Stars Gala happened in Sintra and brought additional stars to portuguese restaurants. Alma joined the 2 stars restaurants, which awarded chef Henrique Sá Pessoa's team.

Along with this award, the Michelin Guide gave 1 star to three new restaurants in Portugal:

• G Restaurante, in Bragança
• A Cozinha, in Guimarães
• Midori, on Hotel Penha Longa, in Sintra

With this new (and very well deserved!) distinction for Alma, six restaurants now have 2 Michelin stars. Two of these are right in Lisbon's city center, on the cosmo and trendy Chiado. Portugal thus becomes more important on the Michelin Guide for the Iberian Peninsula. And claiming its place internationally as a destination for foodies - the food lovers who travel in the search of new flavors and restaurants. Also, it starts to be more likely to get a 3rd Michelin star for a portuguese restaurant. This would certainly place Portugal as a food destination!

Photo by Lifecooler

Check here the complete list of Michelin stars' restaurants in Portugal, for 2019.

Two Michelin stars Alma / Henrique Sá Pessoa, Lisboa Belcanto / José Avillez, Lisboa Il Gallo d’Oro / Benoit Sinthon, Funchal Ocean / Hans Neuner, Alporcinhos The Yeatman / Ricardo Costa, Vila Nova de Gaia Vila Joya / Dieter Koschina, Albufeira One Michelin star A Cozinha /António Loureiro, Guimarães Antiqvvm / Vitor Matos, Porto Bon Bon / Louis Anjos, Carvoeiro Casa da Calçada / Tiago Bonito, Amarante Casa de Chá da Boa Nova / Rui Paula, Leça da Palmeira Eleven / Joachim Koerper, Lisboa Feitoria / João Rodrigues, Lisboa Fortaleza do Guincho / Gil Fernandes, Cascais G Restaurante / Óscar Gonçalves, Bragança Gusto by Heinz Beck / Heinz Beck, Almancil Henrique Leis / Henrique Leis, Almancil LAB by Sergi Arola / Sergi Arola, Sintra L’And Vineyards / Miguel Laffan, Montemor-o-Novo Loco / Alexandre Silva, Lisboa Midori / Pedro Almeida, Sintra Pedro Lemos / Pedro Lemos, Porto São Gabriel / Leonel Pereira, Almancil Vista / João Oliveira, Portimão William / Luís Pestana, Funchal Willie’s / Willie Wurger, Vilamoura

TOP 30 - Best fish restaurants in Lisbon and surroundings

Bestguide.pt made a list with the top 30 best fish restaurants in Lisbon and surroundings. Has it already whetted your appetite?

With a coastline of more than 900 km, Portugal is a country with a strong tradition in terms of sea food. The best restaurants in Lisbon and surroundings to eat fish demonstrate how this ingredient is one of the simplest and most delicious of all our gastronomy. Ideally, you want the fresh and well-grilled fish, and there are restaurants that have made this combination their art. But new times bring new ways to sharpen flavors and delight the palate, and this is a versatile ingredient and, since well done, always tasty. In this article we have left aside the new trends of fish, arrivals from other countries, such as sushi and ceviche, and seafood, deserving separate articles, which will be published in due course. For now, and now that spring and the sun are there, let's take advantage of these Portuguese flavors and sea breezes.

TOP Fish restaurants in Lisbon:

• Restaurante Monte Mar Lisboa;
• Restaurante Peixola;
• Restaurante Rabo d’Pêxe;
• Peixaria da Esquina;
• Restaurante Aqui há Peixe;
• Restaurante Pesca;
• Restaurante Sea Me;
• Frade dos Mares;
• Restaurante Eatfish;
• Doca Peixe;
• Luminosa by Furnas;
• Comendador Silva;
• Restaurante Último Porto;
• Mercado do Peixe;
• Restaurante Clube do Peixe;

Around Lisbon

Outside Lisbon, the sea supplies fish even more abundantly, and it is the main dish at the table of some of the most iconic restaurants in Cascais and Sintra.

In spaces with a view to the sea, where the sea winds are felt at the table, these delicacies have an even more ... genuine flavor.

TOP Fish restaurants around Lisbon:

• Restaurante O Pescador;
• Restaurante Panorama Guincho;
• Restaurante Fora de Pé;
• Restaurante Monte Mar;
• Restaurante Furnas do Guincho;
• Restaurante Mar do Inferno;
• Restaurante Porto de Santa Maria;
• Atlântico Bar & Restaurante;
• Restaurante Cervejaria Luzmar;
• Restaurante Visconde da Luz;
• Palm Tree International Pub &;
• Restaurante Astrolábio;
• Restaurante da Adraga;
• Restaurante Búzio;
• Restaurante Nortada.

Source: Bestguide.pt | See the original article here.

Fish and Shellfish: The best Portuguese restaurants

According to bestguide.pt, Portugal has the best fish and shellfish in the world. So, if you are already mouthwatering about these wonderful delights you must know what the Portuguese typical dishes are and where to go to taste them.

With a coastline that covers half of its outlines, an endless assortment of restaurants, a handful of rivers and a vast stretch of ocean and fishing activities, Portugal doesn´t lack fish and seafood. Fish and seafood live on two apparent nonsense: it is not food for lazy people and it's consider a "luxurious" dish. 

Fisherman at Armação de Pêra

Typical fish market

As in Portugal the art of good cooking is shaped by the "preparations" and supermarkets are dictating that for those who cook more than half of the work is already done, the seafood and what is for so many people the best fish in the world has of standing up against winds and tides, so to speak. It is true that the Portuguese have cod as the fish of choice (which is not even caught in our waters), but the variety and quantity that is given by our rivers and the delights of the Atlantic should be settled and at a reasonable price. But they are not...

Moreover… we have the tendency to make the confection uncomplicated. Even with the foreign advent of sushi restaurants, we do not eat raw fish. We cook it in many different ways: grilled, fried, boiled, roasted, "dressed" with butter, a pinch of salt, a few drops of lemon. We do not fill it with adornments, which is enough to have to catch it, scaly it, unravel it and make it the perfect fillets leaving out everything that is skeleton and spine. That after so much work (and even out of respect for the product) we tend not to complicate the making of the dish. After all, not all the fish have the generosity of the little "jaquinzinhos" (miniature mackerels) while eating a whole fish in a single breath.

Bacalhau assado (baked codfish)

Bacalhau à brás (crumbled cod with garlic, oil and eggs)

Cataplana de peixe (fish "cataplana")

Mariscada (seafood)

Whether it be river or sea fish, going out to eat the delights that the waters give is always an event. Cyclically popular festivals celebrate sardines, but the whole country has many fish and seafood restaurants to choose from. Due to the nature of the obvious need for the absolute freshness of the product that arrives on the plate, the whole restaurant of seafood and fish should be good and of guaranteed quality. They gain their fame through years of immaculate reputation, which allows many to glorify themselves for their shellfish even while away from the sea, or to receive fidelity evidence from the fish eater even though the ocean is out of sight.

It is clear that the favorites (for the Portuguese and, compulsively, for tourists) are the restaurants where fish and seafood are eaten with a view of the sea or the waterfront. It is as if the landscape represents a seal of quality. And then the tradition shows how things may very well continue to be as they were but with the twist of today's times: the auctions and squares where one can buy the product from the wise fishmongers, the occasional cane wand on the head or bucket in the old and new markets, and, above all, the restaurants and seafood restaurants where time does not pass and cooks as usual, taking care of seafood and fish, to the 'fashionable' and the taste of the new national chefs for Portugal's fish and seafood, such as cooking with a personal touch, how to 'turn around' and bring them to the table in a more appealing way.

Then comes the shock of reality, which is when the "embellishment" is over. Most of the fish and seafood caught in Portugal is for export. We export half the quantity that we import and what comes from outside hardly compares in quality to what our waters give. But the prices are not comparable. For more campaigns that are made to the virtues of the national seafood and fish, the scenario remains. Of the 200 species we fish in our exclusive zone, we should not consume more than 15. Some say that the case has both community laws and a lazy dictatorship of consumer tastes. And we are at the point where, adoring the fish or revering the shellfish, we stopped asking about the origin of the species.

But with a modern touch or letting the product speak for itself with a hint of seasoning, skipping in all our waters or coming free from foreign waters, there is no lack in Lisbon and its surroundings of quality restaurants for those who do not cook fish at home nor does he deliver the shellfish to the laws of steam. See the list of the best fish and seafood restaurants in Lisbon and Cascais and, for that international touch, take a peek at the suggestions of the best sushi restaurants.

Restaurants known for the best fish:

• Restaurante Peixola;
• Restaurante Aqui há Peixe; 
• Restaurante Monte Mar Lisboa;
• Restaurante O Pescador;
• Restaurante Panorama Guincho;
• Restaurante Furnas do Guincho.

Restaurants known for the best shellfish:

• Cervejaria Ramiro;
• Peixaria da Esquina;
• Ibo Marisqueira;
• Cervejaria Liberdade;
• Luminosa by Furnas;
• Nunes Real Marisqueira;
• Restaurante Marisco na Praça;
• Restaurante Mar do Inferno;
• Restaurante Eduardo das Conquilhas;
• Restaurante Nortada;
• Restaurante Búzio. 

Restaurants known for the best sushi:

• Restaurante Bonsai;
• Restaurante Midori;
• Restaurante Sushi Design.

Source: Bestguide.pt | See the original article here.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - BELCANTO

Dating back from 1958, Belcanto has been satisfying its customers for a long time. The restaurant was taken over by one of the most prominent chefs of Portugal’s culinary scene, Michelin-starred chef José Avillez. 

Portugal’s rich culinary tradition and fresh ingredients serve as inspiration for the menu, so it exceeds your expectations if you are looking for traditional food.

With a superb location, being placed near the São Carlos Opera House, it is the go-to place for a great dinner after a show or simply to enjoy a bottle of one of the 300 Portuguese wines you can find here.

It has been considered as one of the best restaurants in the World by the acclaimed "The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List” and is one of the finest places to savour a sofisticated meal in Lisbon. 

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - BICA DO SAPATO

Owned by the acclaimed actor John Malkovich, Bica do Sapato is one of the best restaurants in town. It was designed to appeal to a wide array of customers and, as such, you can find several different styles in here. 

By the ground floor, you can find beautiful, 70's inspired decoration to go with the traditional portuguese cuisine, with just a tad of other mediterranean flavors. 

The upper floor, though, is an entirely different story. In it, you can taste what is probably some of the best sushi in town.

Having been a portuary building, deactivated in the meantime, Bica do Sapato offers vast amounts of space, high-ceilinged rooms and - of course- an absolutely terrific view of the Tagus river through its plate-glass windows. 

With chef Manuel Bóia, one of the best portuguese chefs of his generation, this restaurant near the Santa Apolónia train station will surely be appreciated by all visitors of fine taste.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - FEITORIA

Feitoria Restaurante & Wine Bar is located within the fabulous five-star Altis Belem Hotel & Spa with a stunning view over the riverfront. The Kitchen is taken care of by one of the most respected portuguese chefs, Michellin starred chef João Rodrigues. In Feitoria you will find the true essence of portuguese author cuisine, where all the ingredients are treated with the utmost respect for its quality and origin. Prepare yourself for a great culinary journey where bold portuguese flavours meet the most exotic cuisines in the world, reinventing the maritime Discoveries golden era. Authentic flavours that are complemented by an extensive wine selection, including moscatels and ports.

Remember to make a reservation as this amazing restaurant is normally bustling with gourmet enthusiasts and fine dining lovers.  

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - ELEVEN

This modern Michellin starred restaurant is located over a hilltop on Parque Eduardo VII, which gives the place a certain calmness in the middle of the city's buzz. Up there you are surprised with one of the most  fantastic views over Lisbon, framed by the gardens. On the outside, the building shows minimal and straight lines, using organic elements as iron, wood and stones, with great wide windows over the Tagus River. The interior decoration take on traditional elements such as cork, xyst and wood to give it a modern elegant switch exuding timeless chicness.

The restaurant’s Kitchen is runned by chef Joachim Koerper, a german chef that made Lisbon his home. The restaurant’s signature dishes are cooked with high quality and local seasonal ingredients, presenting a new menu each Season. The food is as cosmopolitan as the location it is served, with modern mediterranean interpretation of flavours. On the restaurant’s terrace, in the summertime, it is possible to enjoy a nice time on its Bistro Bar.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON – CASA DO ALENTEJO

This restaurant right in the center of Lisbon, in Baixa neighborhood, located in a noble house formerly known as Alverca Palace, is more than a place to have delicious food, it is a cultural institution where you can get to know more about the biggest region in all Portugal, the Alentejo region. Get dazzled by the Moor inspired décor on the patio and the fabulous dinner rooms upstairs, one beautifuly decorated with portuguese tiles and the other exuding classic lavishness.  Right when you enter the building you are transported to a scene from a tale from some ancient Arabian book, with a beautiful patio and mosaics all over. The food is very flavorful, typical of the rural roots from Alentejo, with great chorizos and blood sausages, great variations of pork dishes and superb wine that you can savor while listening to representative dances and cantares alentejanos, that recently have been listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - OLIVIER AVENIDA RESTAURANTE

A local favorite, you better make a reservation if you want to go to Olivier Avenida Restaurante. Located on a side street near cosmopolite Av. Da Liberdade in Hotel Tivoli Jardim, with a classic luxurious interior design, with pink satin décor inspired by Marie Antoinette and teardrop chandeliers and mirrors, this restaurant by chef Olivier serves a mixture of Portuguese, French and Mediterranean dishes. They are also famous for their brunch and gourmet snacks served on the counter while having a drink in the trendy oval bar.

It is a place to see and be seen, as it is a common choice amongst local celebrities. 

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - TÁGIDE

With over 30 years of experience, Tágide is still a sound name amidst trendy gastro pubs and traditional restaurants. The restaurant is located within a magnificent 18th-century townhouse in Chiado quarter and the first-floor terrace offers a panoramic view over the city, with the River Tagus on the horizon.

Beside the great variety of food you can taste on the degustation or seasonal menu, with a perfect marriage between Portuguese and French flavors, you can enjoy a lighter meal on the Tágide Wine & Tapas bar on the ground floor.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - FORTALEZA DO GUINCHO

Fortaleza do Guincho, housed in a five-star hotel with the same name, opened in 1998 and since then it received many awards, including a Michelin Star in 2001. The menu changes according to the season, with a strong French cuisine influence, favoring local and fresh ingredients. The wine cellar is one of the most varied and exclusives in the country.

From the presentation of the dishes to the service, everything is thought up with great care and designed to offer a luxurious experience, exuding refinement and sophistication.

Probably the most dramatic location of any place to eat in the Lisbon area, with an outstanding view to a wide expanse of the Guincho beach, the restaurant is a superb location for an unforgettable experience. 

CODFISH: WHERE AND HOW TO EAT IT?

There are many ways to eat Codfish, but best well known main course are codfish to Gomes de Sá, cod with cream and braised cod. The best appetizer is fried codfish. 

The best places to eat Codfish is Lisbon are the restaurant "Laurentina - O rei do bacalhau"; the restaurant "A Baiúca" and, the restaurant "O Poleiro". To eat Codfish in Oporto, the best places are the restaurant "Farol da Boa Nova", the restaurant "Abadia do Porto" and, the restaurant "O Paparico".

Testimunial: "Chuck and Diane Reers, Journey to Portugal, May 2013"

"PORTUGAL, a diamond in the rough. At least that was my last recollection from 8th grade geography & history classes. We quickly saw this beautiful country transformed into a highly polished gem, which resembled the Hope Diamond.
A last minute change of plans found us looking for a break after a med cruise out of Barcelona. We contacted Paula of Travel Tailors, and she instantly crafted a private tour that captured our interest and satisfied our travel budget.
Paula's custom tailor skills put together an interesting itinerary, covering the highlights of each place of interest. Professional guides, Marco Noivo and Susana Bras, blended in by contributed their expert historical knowledge and background. I can say, I never had such an interesting and exciting lecture in history! I remember Vasco da Gama, but I actually touched his tomb!
Sleeping and eating accommodations also exceeded my expectations. The local restaurants were cozy and provided the ambiance for a relaxing meal and light conversation..and the roasted suckling pig made each step of the way a memorable experience.
Paula, you and your expert staff are to be commended. Your team has made our trip to Portugal an interesting and memorable event that it will certainly bring us back in the future. I have already recommended friends to contact you, and will continue to do so in the future.
Please feel free to share our vacation success with whomever you wish, and should your travel plans bring you to Denver Colorado USA, please plan to spend some time together. Perhaps we can even plan for our next trip to Portugal.
Thanks again!"

The Best Restaurants of Portugal - South

This TravelTailors' gastronomic program promotes the best traditionally inspired Portuguese southern gastronomy , with emphasis on a signature cuisine. It also highlights the heritage and the landscape of the visited regions: Lisbon and Alentejo.

More information here

The Best Restaurants of Portugal - North

This TravelTailors' program promotes the best traditionally inspired gastronomy of northern Portugal, with emphasis on a signature cuisine. In addition, it promotes the heritage and the landscape of the visited regions, such as Oporto, Douro and Minho.

More information here