Alma

My top choice of restaurants in Lisbon was Alma, a now 2* Michelin restaurant in the central neighborhood of Chiado. Although there are several menus to choose from, as well as the option of à la carte dining, I chose the Costa a Costa, an exploration of the sea and its offerings around Portugal, including several interpretations of classic Portuguese dishes. This country is truly blessed by its coastline and the quality and variety of seafood it provides. It is a privilege to be able to experience its bounty, and this meal was an excellent representative, guiding you through its breadth, its vibrance, and its significance to the Portuguese people. Obrigada.

Cockles in Brine with Sea Lettuce
Seaweed(?), Tapioca Crisp with Oyster Mayonaise

Salted Codfish Tongue with Fava Bean(?) Purée

Black Tapioca with Vinegar Jelly and Red Pepper Purée

Sardine, Eggplant Purée, Tomato Vinegar, Harissa Mayonaise

Octopus with Romanesco

Tomato Sorbet, Gazpacho, Penny Royal

Bread with Olive Oil and Butter

Seafood, Fish, and Seaweed Soup

Sole, Green Peas, Pea Purée, Noisette Hollandaise

John Dory, Squid, Squid Ink, Pennel Purée

Prawn Rice, Prawn, Jus de Red Prawn

Passion Fruit, Yogurt, Meringue

Yuzu, Seaweed, Lime, Squid Ink

When they began describing this dish, I couldn’t even begin to imagine how it would work, but it was insanely delicious. One of my favorite desserts of the year.

Espresso

Pastel de Nata, Chocolate and Harrisa, Raspberry Sponge

Date: September 2018