Don Alfonso 1890 – Italian Sophistication

Ristorante Don Alfonso 1890 is located at the Legacy Hotel Cascais – Curio Collection by Hilton and is an ode to traditional Italian cuisine with a contemporary approach. The original concept was born on the Sorrento Peninsula – Amalfi Coast – in the Italian restaurant of the same name, and now arrives in Cascais with an innovative philosophy.

When we arrive in the late afternoon, for a more intimate dinner, the first impact is dramatic, with an exuberant decor that oozes elegance in the choice of premium materials and also a touch of eccentricity that captures our attention. I like spaces where the small details surprise us, such as the textured and hand-painted wallpaper, the large armchairs that accompany each table or the Vista Alegre crockery. But all of this wouldn’t make much sense if the cuisine didn’t accompany the welcoming atmosphere. Italian chef Nicola Restaino knew how to maintain the identity and history of traditional flavors and masterfully prepare sophisticated dishes.

Highlights include the ‘Smoked Amberjack’ with creamy fava bean puree, citrus and garlic mayonnaise, yogurt sauce with chives or two Italian classics, absolutely unmissable: the famous ‘Spaghetto’, which is Don Alfonso spaghetti, paired with a coulis with tomato and basil, Parmesan cheese and a touch of lemon zest and the ‘Risotto’ with Carnaroli rice with cuttlefish, sea urchin, clams and mussel powder. In the fish dish, ‘Dentice’, red snapper in bread crust, saffron sauce and different textures of yam. On the meat dish, the ‘Filetto’, with Black Angus loin, accompanied by a delicious potato millefeuille and garnished with rooks. We finish sublimely with an ‘Omaggio Alla Gianduia’, a dessert that pays homage to the richness of the dark gianduja, complemented by a cocoa crunch and a touch of gore with Java.

These are some of the options but the menu includes other Italian specialties, including a range of pizzas that are a real temptation (only available at lunchtime and made with the mastery of chef Maurizio Ferrini). We can accompany the meal with offers from the Wine or Bar List, where signature cocktails shine and some classic suggestions that suit all tastes. We also took the opportunity to try the Beetroot Lemonade, our own creation with a surprising and very refreshing flavor for summer.

In the indoor room or on the terrace, the gastronomic experience at Don Alfonso 1890 is a rich sensorial journey that goes beyond simple tasting. It is a dive into Italian culture, where tradition and passion are reflected in every dish, environment and service. Directly from Naples, the origins of the award-winning restaurant Don Alfonso 1890 date back to the 19th century and now arrive in Cascais with a legacy that prevails. Being innovative is essential but not everyone can maintain a link with the production of the purest ingredients. True moments at the table, where we are together and in a convivial atmosphere, in a celebration of the senses. This is how Italian haute cuisine is celebrated, which comes to life here with an experience that we will want to repeat.

By Carla Branco

INFO: www.hilton.com/pt/hotels/lctlhqq-legacy-hotel-cascais

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