PUMPKIN SOUP!
Feitoria is one of the finest gastronomical experiences in Lisbon, in the Altis Belém Hotel & Spa. I definitely recommend degustation lovers not to miss this opportunity, visiting Feitoria.
Executive Chef João Rodrigues mentions that they are inspired by the adventurous spirit of the Portuguese explorers and the routes they discovered. They use the best quality Portuguese products together with the international flavors.
Feitoria was awarded by a Michelin star in 2012. Chef João Rodrigues has been the sous chef of Feitoria, and he has been the Executive Chef since 2009.
Ambiance
The first thing that catches your eye when you enter the restaurant is the huge Namban art mural. Namban art was developed in Japan after the first Portuguese ship arrived in Kyushu in 1543. The painting perfectly overlaps with Feitoria’s notion stated by Chef João Rodrigues; the desire of exploration.
Overall look in the restaurant is very elegant and modern, with mostly white, black and gold colors being used. The lightning is adequately bright. Small pieces of decoration on the tables look very endearing together with the black and glossy water glasses that take your attention straight away.
The only problem was the huge insect I saw at the restroom, which actually bothered me a lot. They need to have a pest control in no time. It was surprising since the restrooms were looking very tidy and clean with high standards.
Taste
Some of the courses, unfortunately, lack the depth of taste. The intelligence shown for the creativity overshadowed the flavor. It would be better if both were well balanced. Especially appetizers were outstanding. Sautéed Algarve scarlet shrimp which comes from the southernmost part of Portugal was delicious. In general, dishes were above average in terms of taste, but I would love to see more shining stars.
Creativity
The experience itself was richer than the degustative aspects. Presentation of the dishes was entertaining. There is definitely a mastermind designing this unique experience.
The last part was extremely funny. There was a thin and crusty ball of sweets. A puff of smoke emerged from the food as you bite and crack open the crust. We took lots of funny videos, it was such a great memory.
Service
Service quality was top notch. The staff makes you feel royal. However, our waiter kept pouring water into our glasses even if we drank just a tiny bit. It was a little disturbing since he was constantly by our side trying to fill every glass. It would be sufficient for him to check out and fill the glass when it was less than half full.
Even though I didn’t inform them regarding my intolerance beforehand, they were very sensitive in adapting the courses for me.
Value
The price of the 6-course degustation menu was EUR 135, which was hundred percent worth every penny. You end up eating more than 6 courses together with the amuse bouches and petit fours. Compared to other European countries, the prices are much lower with very high-quality products and standards.
Sommelier was very good and recommended us some excellent Portuguese wines. By his recommendation, we had a nice Barranco Longo 2014 from Algarve region.
