Fine dining at Tivoli Carvoeiro
With one foot firmly set in Portugal, The One Gourmet Restaurant of the Tivoli Carvoeiro Hotel & Resort enjoys a spectacular view out over the glistening Atlantic. Here, the chef and his team celebrate the abundantly available fruits of the nearby sea and countryside to the north.
Dining at The One is a journey through Portugal, with recipes full of considerable ethnic influences. Executive chef Bruno Augusto has an impressive pedigree, with experience both internationally and locally with Vila Vita, in Porches, The Ritz, Cascais Miragem, near Lisbon, and, more recently, Vale d’Oliveiras, right here in Carvoeiro. Now in place at the pass of Tivoli Carvoeiro, the young chef is full of enthusiasm and creativity.
Applying French technique and Asian minimalism, The One has a sophisticated style and presentation. The restaurant itself isn’t all about the view — but what a view it is. The décor has tonnes of natural fabrics in the wall coverings, and a central, curved green velvet bench takes centre stage, offering a variety of comfortable seating options. There is also a sprinkling of individual tables towards the terrace area leading onto the minimalistic dressed setting that soaks up the endless sea view in front of it. The ambience is perfect for sitting back and enjoying the dining experience ahead.
The team are knowledgeable, and a wine pairing dinner is a fabulous option for guests who are happy to leave their fate in the capable hands of sommelier Francisco Meira, who takes great pleasure in delivering a bespoke pairing to suit the guests’ taste. Franciso is keen to showcase the best offerings from local winemakers and has a fabulous wine cellar at his disposal, taking the dining experience to another level.
The menu is varied with fish, meat and vegetarian options. It also has a good range of balance with a vegetarian tasting menu, which is fairly unusual in the Algarve. The produce that chef Augusto is using is top class, with deep flavours of wild fish, organic vegetables and local meats featuring throughout the menus. Guests can enjoy an à la carte experience at The One, should they prefer something a little lighter with individual dishes or sharing options giving great flexibility. Diners will find the service to be attentive yet relaxed, which fits in well with the general vibe of the resort.
The One is located next to the Azur Bar, where both resort guests and non-residents are welcome to enjoy a drink and lounge whilst enjoying piped music and a warm sea breeze. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the Vale Covo cliffside, Tivoli Carvoeiro is a fully refurbished five-star hotel and resort, ensuring spectacular experiences in luxury surroundings. There are 248 suites and rooms with different capacities, including family suites and luxurious rooms with Jacuzzi tubs on the terrace. The gym is available for non-residents too, under a membership scheme, and has a sauna and steam room on the side of it, making it a perfect hang out for the winter months. An indoor pool and Jacuzzi can be found on a lower floor as can the large outdoor pool.
The spa is also open to everyone. Once inside, guests are transported to a haven of tranquillity where the beauticians work their magic. Ceramics made especially for Tivoli by local icon Porches Pottery are dotted around, highlighting the company’s ethos of sustainability and involving the community. The décor is a fresh blend of Asian and Portuguese and creates an elegant and calming environment.
