An Authentic gem

The grand opening on Saturday, 1^st of June 2024, welcomed guests to an ambiance which was both inviting and stylish, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made diners feel right at home.

From the moment you walked in the door to the moment you left, you were treated with a level of care and professionalism that is truly impressive. The staff at the Authentic Restaurant go above and beyond to ensure that every guest's needs are being met, making for a truly memorable and enjoyable dining experience.

The service at Authentic Restaurant is top-notch, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who are dedicated to providing an exceptional dining experience for every guest.

Charming decor

The decor exudes beauty, charm, and glitz, which is a testament to the establishment's attention to detail and commitment to providing a luxurious dining experience for its patrons.

The presence of a grand piano in the dining area, not only adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the ambiance but also sets the tone for a memorable and immersive dining experience, where soft melodies and beautiful music emanating from the piano create a serene and relaxed atmosphere, allowing diners to enjoy their meal in a refined and upscale setting.

Furthermore, the smooth and glossy surfaces of the marble floors create a visually striking ambience that exudes elegance and refinement. From the charming chandeliers and colour scheme, to the furniture and artwork, every aspect of the decor contributes to the overall ambiance of the restaurant. One key element of Authentic Restaurant decor is the use of signature design furniture. These pieces are carefully selected to reflect the theme and style of the restaurant, adding to its overall charm and appeal.

Culinary magic

From the main dining room, you are offered a unique dining experience with an open kitchen concept, headed by Chef Ricardo Luz, who won Chef of the Year in 2019 while working at Bon Bon, a Michelin-starred restaurant and who has worked with famous names in the national gastronomic scene such as Chef José Avillez.

This concept allows guests to witness culinary magic happening right in front of their eyes.

Chef Ricardo's skill and expertise are on full display as he meticulously crafts each dish with precision and artistry, ensuring that every plate that leaves the kitchen is a masterpiece while being assisted by a team that exhibits dedication and passion.

Standout dishes

The Authentic Restaurant cuisine that I had the pleasure of enjoying was truly to die for.

The dishes were not only delicious but also beautifully presented, demonstrating a deep understanding of food composition and aesthetics.

The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients in the dishes contributed to the originality and quality of the food, resulting in a truly memorable culinary experience.

From the Ria Formosa Oysters served with Beluga Caviar to the Blue Lobster Bisque served on a Fennel Ravioli and young Tear Peas and the Wild Turbot served on a bed of Coriander Bread Soup with Clams, I was transported to a world of culinary excellence, where every ingredient was treated with the utmost respect and care.

One standout dish that night was the Galician Beef served with Jerusalem Artichoke Puree with a Morellis sauce, was perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection. The dish was both flavourful and tender, with a smoky hint that added depth to the overall flavour profile.

The presentation of every dish was also impeccable, with vibrant colours and a beautiful plating that highlighted the chef's attention to detail. The combination of flavours and textures make it a must-try for anyone dining at the Authentic Restaurant.

Superb entertainment

As if this were not enough, guests were further treated to a night of superb entertainment by Michael Ball, the famous English singer, actor and presenter who entertained us with songs such as “Love Changes Everything”, from the musical Aspects of Love and “One Step Out of Time” where he represented the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest finishing in second place. And to end, we were greeted by an array of fireworks lighting up the night sky in a dazzling display of colours and shapes to celebrate a successful evening and a grand opening where the ordinary was transformed into the extraordinary.

Overall, Authentic Restaurant in Quinta do Lago, Algarve is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Portuguese cuisine with an international and elegant twist, in a welcoming and glamourous atmosphere. Dining at Authentic is not just about eating delicious food, but about experiencing the artistry and creativity of a talented chef in a stylish and inviting setting.

Born in South Africa, moved to Portugal in 2019. Wife and mother of two boys.  Focused and involved in the community. Entrepreneurial and problem-solving mindset and committed to approaching each venture with professionalism and dedication.

Lucy Musk