Second Michelin Star for Vila Vita
- Written by Sue Englefield
Ocean, the gourmet restaurant at the luxury Vila Vita Parc resort in the Algarve, has been awarded its second Michelin star, just two years after gaining its first star in the world-renowned restaurant guide.
The award makes Ocean one of only two restaurants in Portugal to have two Michelin stars – an achievement that neither of the country’s largest cities, Lisbon and Porto, can match.
It is a major honour for talented Austrian chef Hans Neuner and his team, and puts Hans – still only in his mid-thirties – in the same illustrious company as other international Michelin star chefs. Whilst Hans’ mantra of ‘keep it simple’ might initially seem at odds with the normal Michelin philosophy, his seasonally changing menu is technically perfect and exacting, and showcases a remarkable and incredibly distinctive light touch.
Ocean prides itself on modern, fresh and individual food with a Portuguese signature. A strong focus is placed on using the best local products, including fish and seafood from the Atlantic, fruit and vegetables from the farms of the Algarve, and meat and game from the Monchique mountains and the Alentejo, including Herdade dos Grous, Vila Vita Parc’s country estate.
Award-winning varieties from Herdade dos Grous also feature extensively on Ocean’s wine list. Around 60 per cent of the 1200 wines on offer come from Portugal, along with wines from France, Spain, Austria, Germany and the New World, and the extensive cellar houses approximately 40,000 bottles.
As its name suggests, Ocean offers spectacular Atlantic views from its terrace. Seating 30, it is open for dinner from 7.30-10pm from Wednesday to Sunday. Reservations are essential.
Dress code: Elegant eveningwear
Children: 12 years and older
Telephone: + 351 282 310 100
Website: www.vilavitaparc.com
