From handmade sourdough pizzas to sunset cocktails, it blends heartfelt hospitality, fresh flavours, and local charm
– May 7, 2025 | Text Beatriz Maio | Photos Phaze Photography
Tucked away in Praia da Luz, Zest Bistro has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Whether sipping a cocktail as the sun sets or settling in for a nice dinner after a long day in Praia da Luz, the bistro offers a warm, welcoming space where good food and good times go hand in hand.
Since opening its doors in September 2023, this family-run restaurant has carved out a reputation for its elegant yet relaxed ambience, with an inviting energy that keeps guests coming back. “As we make people feel at home, we get many returning customers, even if they are on holiday and won’t be back for months or even a year,” says owner James Wright.
This sense of familiarity and connection is part of what makes Zest a popular meeting place for the local community.
During the winter months, live music sessions add to the restaurant’s appeal, creating a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere. Whilst the musical styles vary, the focus remains on delivering a charming, easy-going ambience that enhances the dining experience.
“It’s a lovely space to be in the village, and I’m very happy that I’ve managed to successfully build something like this,” James reflects.
Originally conceived as a pizzeria, Zest has since expanded into a fully-fledged dining destination, offering a diverse menu that caters to a range of tastes. From handmade sourdough pizzas with slow-fermentation bases to expertly crafted cocktails, the restaurant focuses on thoughtful, high-quality dishes.
To start, diners can choose from homemade pork or veggie dumplings, black tiger prawns, and a classic burrata served with cherry tomatoes, rocket and bread.
The arancini balls are also a firm favourite. For those in search of something heartier, the menu boasts an array of standout dishes, including Prime Black Angus Sirloin, slow-cooked ribs made using James’ mother’s own recipe, carefully prepared lamb loin, and homemade burgers.
Seafood lovers are equally well-catered for, with fresh local fish taking centre stage. The tuna and seabass fillet – served with caper butter, lemon and herb fried rice, and seasoned vegetables – are among the highlights.
For those with a taste for Italian classics, the porcini mushroom risotto and traditional carbonara – made with guanciale, egg yolk, fresh Parmesan, and Grana Padano aged for a minimum of 18 months – deliver an authentic taste of Italy.
Vegans and vegetarians are equally well-catered for, with options like the Buddha Bowl, which combines falafel, lemon herb rice, mixed greens, guacamole, hummus, and mixed seeds, as well as a variety of fresh salads.
“I work out the menus, and then I pass them on to my kitchen staff. We work together as a great team, improvising and refining dishes to suit everyone’s tastes,” James explains, adding that the menu changes with the seasons.
“We care about our customers, and everything is made fresh. I like to use local produce and keep it as local as possible because that helps small businesses,” James notes.
Beyond its enticing menu, Zest’s friendly and attentive team ensures that each visit is a memorable experience. The bar and lounge add to the dynamic atmosphere, where expertly mixed cocktails complement the food offering. Signature cocktails such as the Paloma – a Mexican classic crafted with premium tequila – and the Alma Colins, featuring locally produced Alma gin and homemade lemonade, are among James’ recommendations.
Other highlights include the Lemon Tree, a tropical blend of Bacardi and passion fruit, and the Dejavu, infused with raspberry and rhubarb Fever-Tree tonic. For beer lovers, local craft selections such as Mania and Man of War IPA sit alongside Portuguese staples like Sagres. Classic choices such as Aperol Spritz, Espresso Martini, and refreshing sangrias ensure there’s something to suit every occasion. Younger guests can also enjoy a selection of mocktails, as well as refreshing homemade lemonade made from locally sourced lemons.
The restaurant’s distinctive décor adds another layer of charm to the experience. At the centre of the space stands an eye-catching tree, designed by James and his wife Gabriela, who has a background in floristry and design.
Together, the couple has crafted a setting that seamlessly blends natural elements with artistic flourishes. Even the outdoor mural, hand-painted by artist Wispaworks, a friend of the couple, reflects their creative vision. The vibrant blue hues evoke the nearby ocean and sandy beaches, whilst the greens bring a touch of nature into the space.
James, who was born in Britain but raised in Portugal, built his business from the ground up, drawing on his family’s deep-rooted experience in the Algarve’s hospitality scene. His parents, who have lived in the region for over 40 years, opened several restaurants in Praia da Luz, making Zest a continuation of a long-standing family tradition.
With the help of his father in construction, his mother’s culinary influence, along with his wife’s artistic input, Zest Bistro has become a true labour of love.
Looking ahead, James remains committed to fostering a space that welcomes both tourists and locals, offering exceptional food, a lively atmosphere, and a genuine sense of community.
Zest is open Wednesday to Tuesday.
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