Tribulum Restaurant, Central Algarve

Tribulum is that spot in the central Algarve that steadfastly offers a great meal at moderate prices, interesting selection of international wines, an open and airy ambiance, and a fun and friendly attitude, spearheaded by amiable Irish chef Jonnie Pratt. Stop by for a morning coffee and pastry, come in for a delightful lunch, meet your friends at the outdoor lounge and dine with friends for dinner. Tribulum is a welcoming spot, that hits the spot, all day.

If you’ve spent any length of time in the central Algarve, you may have heard of or crossed paths with Chef Jonnie. His biggest fans remember his innovative cuisine served at his Bistro des Z’Artes in Almancil in 2008-2010-ish. At the time, he was celebrated in the press on radio and in the heart of local foodies. Jonnie stepped away from the Algarve to work at restaurants in New York City, Dublin and Switzerland before returning to the Portugal in 2017 to become executive chef at Parrilla Group. Ultimately, his desire to have his own creative space to cook and entertain led him to the opportunity to create Tribulum.

Named after a rustic piece of wheat threshing equipment, Tribulum wears its back-to-the-land philosophy proudly. Jonnie is committed to local ingredients and sustainability, including growing much of his produce in a garden onsite.

Take the bread, for example. In addition to the Irish soda bread, which we’re told is meant to be enjoyed with an equal ratio of bread to freshly whipped butter, there’s sourdough and white bread made with grain from the Alentejo. The in-house massa mãe (mother yeast) is carefully nurtured to ensure freshly-baked loaves for years to come. (Even better: they’re served with house-made pumpkin pesto, Algarvian carrot spread, and beetroot butter above.)

That said, Tribulum sets out to be a high-quality watering hole for the Golden Triangle’s smart set, without the pretension of other area restaurants. The airy, sunny dining room sits atop a hill and offers beautiful views across the Algarve. Large wood tables, set an appropriate distance apart, are not covered by white tablecloths (a conscious decision to keep the restaurant from becoming fussy). There are, however, fine linen napkins at every place.

The dinner menu is innovative, with dishes like an oxtail ravioli, confit garlic & gremolata and chicken lollipops with homemade sweet chili sauce and red cabbage slaw to start. Monkfish fillet, confit garlic, roast cherry tomato & prawn bisque, rosemary & treacle lamb loin, glazed carrots & sweet potato wedges, and fillet steak, sautéed onions, green beans & shallot jus are highlights for mains. Vegetarians will be content too with options like the beetroot carpaccio, orange & goats cheese and roast mushroom & leek lasagne.

Lunches are great at Tribulum. For €10, your meal includes your choice of starter, main course, dessert and coffee. The menu offers a selection of soups, salads, pastas, risottos, burger and more.

Tribulum’s outdoor Green Zebra bar offers al fresco cocktails, wine, beer and bubbles throughout the day and evening. It’s become a fun meeting point for locals and tourists alike. For digital nomads and/or friendly get-togethers, the Tribulum lounge (with free wifi) opens at 10:00am for coffee, tea and pastries.