South American soul food followed by swank soulful chill out.jpg

South American soul food followed by swank soulful chill out

Olá Amigos! Summer may be over and the Algarve may seem quieter, but there are still some cool new spots to discover.

OK. So, you’ve always wanted to try Gourmet Natural at the Ermitage. You hear the Uruguayan steaks are the best and the al fresco dining is heavenly. But, when you call to make reservations, you are told the restaurant is booked solid.  Ugh.

Have no fear! The gaucho gods of the South American pampas have heard your cry.  

Parrilla Natural, a new restaurant by the team behind Gourmet Natural, has opened in the central Algarve, on the road leading from Almancil to Vale do Lobo.

A considerable effort has been made in transforming a former traditional villa into a modern dining masterpiece. Inside are numerous dining and lounge spaces. Each is in full view of the open kitchen and parrilla (South American grill).  

But, it is the retracting floor-to-ceiling glass walls at the rear of the building that reveal the restaurant’s greatest feature:  a lushly-landscaped, multi-level terrace for dining under the stars.  

Sitting in this beautiful garden is a treat itself. Attention to detail is evident in the terrace design, the ambient lighting, the layout of stonework on the floor, and the richness of the foliage. It’s truly a relaxing and satisfying atmosphere, unique to the dining scene in the Algarve.  

The trendy Stereohotel in Albufeira.
The trendy Stereohotel in Albufeira.

Of course, the focus of Parrilla Natural is its natural steaks. Uruguayan beef is well-known for its high quality and delicious taste. So, have your choice of tasty filet, picanha, rib eye or sirloin. If you’re not into red meat, they also have grilled chicken breast, fresh fish and prawns.  

With its central location, gorgeous terraces and amazing cuisine, look for Parrilla Natural to become an Algarvian foodie favourite. Reservations: +351 289 355 271

After dinner, scoot on over to StereoHotel. This new lounge, adjacent to the Albufeira marina, is the quintessential chill out spot. With an idyllic hilltop location and large open terraces, this lounge is the perfect place for moonlight mingling.  

Unlike many booming clubs around the Algarve, StereoHotel has that positive-energy, low-key vibe found in trendy international lounges. Inside, the décor is hip and swank, with low-slung comfy furniture. Outside, the terrace has bed-like loungers and cushions, for enjoying cocktails and romantic views with a special someone.  

House and guest DJs play electronic and soulful house tracks to keep the heart of StereoHotel pumping. Theme events are planned for most weekends.

StereoHotel is on Rua da Orada in Albufeira.

For more information on these and other cool places in the Algarve, visit www.portugalconfidential.com.
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