Giardino – La Cucina Italiana (Italian kitchen) is another facet in the delicious jewel that is the Culinary World of Vila Vita Parc. The luxury resort in Porches, in the western Algarve, pays tribute to the cuisine of Italy with authentic antipasti, pizzas, pastas and risottos. Stop in for an evening of “dolce vita,” comprised of fresh produce, classic Italian flavors and delightful Algarve sunsets.
Find Giardino in Vila Vita Parc’s Clubhouse facing the sea. There is an elegant inside dining room as well as a light and airy outside terrace; both with views of the clubhouse pool and the ocean,
Giardino’s menu begins with a tempting selection of antipasti that set the tone for the meal. Traditional Italian favorites such as Vitello Tonnato and Burrata share the spotlight with lighter seasonal creations, including a refreshing citrus salad with roasted fennel, avocado, and mint, and zucchini dressed with olive oil, basil, olives, and aged Parmesan. Guests can also enjoy comforting classics such as Sicilian-style Parmigiana and a rich tomato soup served with focaccia and basil cream.
Homemade pasta remains one of Giardino’s greatest pleasures. House-made tortellini filled with gorgonzola and ricotta, lemon linguine with grilled squid, and paccheri with Algarve shrimp showcase the kitchen’s balance of tradition and creativity. Alongside these are beloved Italian staples such as Rigatoni all’Amatriciana and Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe. Risotto lovers can choose between a saffron-infused Milanese version with seafood or a garden pea risotto accented with sun-dried tomatoes. Meanwhile, Giardino’s wood-fired pizzas range from a truffle-topped Mortadella creation to vegetarian options featuring seasonal vegetables, making them ideal for sharing around the table.
For the main course, Giardino offers a selection of classic Italian secondi that highlight both land and sea. The Veal Milanese is elevated with provolone foam, lemon, and marinated tomatoes, while the sirloin steak is paired with crispy polenta and tomato pesto. Seafood enthusiasts may gravitate toward the swordfish confit served with Livornese sauce and potato gnocchi, while vegetarians will find a satisfying option in the Aubergine alla Milanese, accompanied by caponata, roasted tomatoes, and fresh rocket.
Desserts selections are all quite tempting, but every Giardino server in the room recommended the tiramisu. And, they were spot on!! The tiramisu that arrives in a plastic sheath, is “unveiled” with the creamy top layer oozing down the cake onto the plate. It is divine.
Complement the meal with a tasty Italian wine, prosecco or vermouth.
For more information, visit the Giardino webpage.
Giardino
Vila Vita Parc
Rua Anneliese Pohl
Alporchinos
Porches
Western Algarve
Reservations:
Phone: +351 282 358 177
Email: fb@vilavitaparc.com
Hours: Thursday to Monday – 18:00 to 21:30