Authentic, one of the Algarve‘s “most exclusive and elegant” restaurants, is inviting fine dining connoisseurs to enjoy a “unique sensorial experience” this festive season.
The restaurant, located in Almancil near the Quinta do Lago golf resort, will be serving special Christmas and New Year menus crafted by chef Ricardo Luz which promise to “blend the sophistication of contemporary cuisine with Portuguese traditions” to create something completely different.
For Christmas Day and Boxing Day (December 25-26), Authentic presents a refined interpretation of classic seasonal flavours. The experience begins with the restaurant’s signature Pastel de Bacalhau (traditional Portuguese cod fritter), followed by a menu that moves from rich lobster ravioli in creamy bisque to tender cod loin served with chickpea purée and Portuguese cabbage. Roast turkey takes centre stage for the main festive dish, accompanied by truffled purée, nut rice and roasted vegetables. Dessert is a full indulgent spread of traditional sweets, Guests will find Bolo Rei and Bolo Rainha, the traditional fruit- and nut-filled festive cakes enjoyed throughout December, as well as Tronco de Natal, a chocolate “yule log.” There are also Sonhos and Filhoses, light fried pastries typically served warm with sugar or cinnamon; Fatias Douradas, Portugal’s take on French toast; Pudim Abade, a rich caramel dessert from the north; Azevias de Batata-Doce, sweet potato pastries common in the Algarve; and a take on classic Christmas pudding, as well as a selection of fresh fruit. The menu is priced at €220 per person.
New Year’s Eve promises even more glamour, with a gala dinner designed for guests who want to welcome 2026 in style. The evening opens with Oscietra caviar served with blinis, crème fraîche, chopped egg and shallot. The main courses highlight fresh lobster paired with cauliflower purée, bisque and citrus notes, followed by delicate turbot finished with champagne sauce, celery root purée, Madagascan vanilla and baby vegetables. Beef loin completes the savoury experience, served with parsnip purée, wild mushrooms, truffle and a rich Mourillos jus. Dessert brings the “Golden Moment,” a layered creation of almond, chocolate and coffee accompanied by pistachio and chocolate ice cream. At midnight, each pair receives a bottle of champagne, and the late-evening supper of prego no bolo-do-caco, a traditional Madeira sandwich made with tender beef; pão com chouriço, bread baked with slices of smoky Portuguese sausage; as well as cheese and charcuterie boards and fruit skewers. The New Year’s Eve menu is available for €290 per person.
For more information or reservations, email reservations@authentic-restaurant.pt, or call +351 289 005 782 / 924 194 746.
