Viva Vivant Food & Drink Restaurant: An Afternoon of Mexican Culture and Cuisine

It focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and innovative cooking techniques and strives to provide guests with a memorable dining experience and exceptional service.

On Sunday, 7th April that is just what their Mexican-themed Brunch offered, an array of vibrant food and drink nestled in the heart of Almancil Algarve, making it an unforgettable event. From the moment you walked in you were greeted by the sounds of a Mariachi Band that transported guests to the rhythmic beats of Mexican music from classics such as La Bamba, La Cucaracha and Alma de Guitarra, and got quite a few guests singing along.

The decor transported you to the colourful streets of Mexico, with paper picado banners and pinatas hanging from the ceiling creating an exciting and festive atmosphere while the waiters wore colourful sombreros. You were then greeted with a warm welcome from the hostess Maryka and owner Francisco whose enthusiasm and passion for the restaurant business was evident.

Meticulously crafted

The star of the event was undoubtedly the menu, meticulously crafted to showcase the rich tapestry of flavours that define Mexican cuisine. From mouth-watering appetizers like creamy Guacamole and Aguachile, which featured fresh seafood as its star ingredient marinated in a mixture of lime juice, diced chilli peppers, sliced red onion, and cilantro, to munching on Tacos and Frijoles Charros, made with pinto beans, bacon, onions, and garlic.

Another favourite was undoubtedly the Choriqueso, with its irresistible combination of savoury chorizo, melted cheese, and aromatic spices, it's no wonder that Choriqueso was a beloved favourite among guests. Cochinita pibil, was a particularly interesting dish and Chef Diogo explained that it consists of marinated pork that is slow-roasted until tender and flavourful. The pork was marinated in a mixture of citrus juice, garlic, and various spices, which gave it a distinctive red-orange colour and a rich, tangy flavour and it was served wrapped in banana leaves. Each dish was a testament to the skill and passion of the Vivant Restaurant culinary team.

No Mexican feast would be complete without refreshing beverages, the bar served up Coronas, classic Margaritas alongside exotic Palomas a quintessential cocktail that captured the essence of a leisure afternoon spent relaxing with friends and family. This was more than just a gastronomic event; it was a celebration of community and culture. Guests came together to savour the flavours of Mexico, and of course no Mexican party could go without the Tequila, representing a symbol of national pride and tradition of Mexico.

Throughout the afternoon, guests had the chance to participate in traditional activities such as the Mexican wave, tequila tasting and salsa dancing, immersing themselves fully in the spirit of the fiesta.

Later in the afternoon DJ Pedro Duarte took over the festivity inviting diners to twirl and sway to the infectious rhythms of Latin music. More exciting news is that this is one of the more Sunday brunches to come at Vivant Restaurant, each with their own theme, promising to delight guests with thematic delights and gastronomic wonders.

For further information, please visit https://www.instagram.com/vivant_almancil/