© Robin Barbosa/DOP
The island of Madeira hosted the country’s largest gastronomic event: the Michelin Gala. This year, 11 new distinctions were announced, bringing the total number of restaurants with MICHELIN Stars in Portugal to 53.
According to the MICHELIN Guide, “the result is unequivocal: the Portuguese culinary scene is experiencing a rapid evolution towards the highest level of excellence.” The guide also emphasizes that “this progress is sustained by local products that stand out as a true emblem, worked with rigor and respect for seasonality; by an increasingly defined identity at the table; and by chefs who demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation, without losing sight of traditional Portuguese flavors.”
Two MICHELIN Stars
The Two MICHELIN Stars, awarded to establishments with exceptional cuisine, represent the second-highest distinction of the guide.
Joining the existing group: Belcanto in Lisbon; Vila Joya in Albufeira; Antiqvvm in Porto; Il Gallo d’Oro in Funchal; Casa de Chá da Boa Nova in Leça da Palmeira; Henrique Sá Pessoa in Lisbon; Ocean in Porches; and The Yeatman Gastronomic Restaurant in Vila Nova de Gaia, is now the prestigious restaurant Fifty Seconds in Lisbon.
Located 120 meters above ground, Fifty Seconds offers a stunning view over the Tagus River in an elegant and contemporary setting. The gastronomic journey is led by chef Rui Silvestre and his team.
One MICHELIN Star
All those distinguished deserve congratulations, but the North of the country received special recognition in this edition, winning six new MICHELIN Stars. Porto saw the highest concentration of new distinctions. Among the awarded restaurants are DOP, led by chef Rui Paula; Éon, by chef Tiago Bonito; Gastro by Elemento, by chef Ricardo Dias Ferreira; and In Diferente, by chef Angélica Salvador.
However, outstanding gastronomic experiences are not found only in major cities. There are also projects that have transformed their isolation into identity, integrating the territory, landscape, and local producers into the experience.
This is the case of A Cozinha do Paço in Évora and MAPA in Montemor-o-Novo, both surrounded by the vineyards of Alentejo, as well as Schistó in Peso da Régua, by the river in the heart of the Douro Valley.
Also worthy of mention are Largo do Paço in Amarante, Kappo in Cascais, and Alameda in Faro.
Costa Verde congratulates all the award winners!