Guest User
June 4, 2025
I was truly looking forward to this visit, especially knowing the restaurant is part of a beautifully restored monastery turned 5-star hotel. The setting is remarkable, full of history and grandeur—but sadly, the dining experience was the exact opposite. The decor feels oddly out of place: dark tables, red chairs, no tablecloths, no elegance—more IKEA than heritage. It completely lacks charm or atmosphere, a missed opportunity to match the soul of the building. The menu left me baffled. Ceviche and carpaccio in the heart of rural Portugal, in a place known for its rich, traditional cuisine? It felt tone-deaf. The food itself was far from memorable. My Bife de Alvarenga was based on good-quality meat, but ruined by a pre-made, tasteless sauce that overwhelmed everything. Service was poor, though I understand the restaurant have just opened. Still, that doesn't excuse the overall lack of hospitality or training we experienced. It’s a heartbreaking contrast—such a majestic setting with so little care or passion in the food and service. I hope they find their footing soon, because right now, it’s just a sad echo of what it could be.