O Lavrador: A Charming Portuguese Taberna with English Owners in the Enchanting Hills of Boliquime

If you're seeking an award-winning restaurant tucked away in the picturesque Algarve region, look no further than O Lavrador. This lovely village taberna, located near Boliquime, is a hidden gem run by a wonderful family duo, Samantha and Nick Jewitt, hailing from the UK. Their passion for culinary delights and the dreamy Portuguese countryside led them to O Lavrador, where they have created a perfect blend of Mediterranean and English cuisine.

Nestled in the hills at 260 meters above sea level, the restaurant boasts a charming small terrace that beckons diners to bask in the tranquility of the surroundings. What's even more surprising is the cozy indoor restaurant adorned with a magnificent fireplace, perfect for those chilly winter evenings.

The moment you step foot inside, you are greeted with warmth and hospitality, indicative of a true family business. Despite its somewhat remote location above Boliquime, Olhos de Água, and Vilamoura, the terrace is always brimming with patrons, a testament to the exceptional food and service offered.

O Lavrador has received well-deserved recognition, including the prestigious Luxury Travel Guide award for the best new Mediterranean restaurant. Moreover, the couple was featured in the UK television program "A New Life in the Sun," which chronicles the adventures of British entrepreneurs setting up businesses abroad.

Chef Nick is a master of warm dishes, while Chef Samantha dazzles with her delectable desserts and attentive service. They are ably assisted by the charming Sally and Paulo, who add to the restaurant's warm and welcoming ambiance.

The menu is an enticing fusion of English favorites like fish and chips, grilled beef, chicken, and fish of the day, alongside two original vegan dishes. Chef Nick takes pride in crafting delightful vegan options using fresh ingredients, ensuring that even non-vegans relish the experience.

Speaking of the food, it's nothing short of fantastic! Start your culinary journey with the mouthwatering mushroom soup drizzled with truffle oil—an exquisite delight for just 4 euros. The risotto with cauliflower, hazelnuts, and grapes (14 euros) stands out as one of the best vegan risottos ever tasted. Chef Nick's mastery in making it creamier than the traditional version with cauliflower and soy cream is simply divine.

Don't miss out on the savory lentil pastry (15 euros) filled with mushrooms, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and a delectable Madeira jus—it's an absolute treat!

As a delightful conclusion to the feast, indulge in a refreshing lemon sorbet served with red fruits.

O Lavrador is more than just a restaurant; it's a place where you feel at home from the moment you arrive. The welcoming staff, delectable food, and pleasant guests create an atmosphere akin to a cozy inn. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, O Lavrador will make you want to return time and again. A special place indeed, and one can't help but dream of working here—a true paradise in the heart of Boliquime's enchanting hills.

PS their Sunday Brunch is very popular!

UPDATE:

Our second vistit was during the evening. We had an amazing dinner, it was even better than the lunch! This are the dishes we had, and they were all great!!

STARTERS

Roast Butternut Squash Soup with Coconut, Lime Leaf and Chilli (vg/gf)4.5

Charred Baby Gem Lettuce with Vegan Feta Cheese and Tomato Gazpacho (vg/gf)9

Algarvian Yellow Avocado, Beetroot and Walnut Salad (vg/gf)8

Creamy Garlic Mussels on Toast with Prosecco, Leeks and Dill 10

Bruleed Goats Cheese, Roast Beetroot and Candied Honey Walnuts 9

King Prawn and Smoked Salmon Cocktail with Ouzo pickled Cucumber, Grapes and Almond, ‘Taramasalata’ Marie Rose 10

Twice Baked Souffle of Homegrown Peppers and ‘Queijo Ilha’, Chilli Jam 9.5

MAINS

Sauteed Wild Mushrooms with Potato Gnocchi and Vegan Feta Cheese, Rocket Salad (vg/gf)14

Sweet Potato and Beluga Lentil Pithivier, Sprouting Broccoli, Mushroom and Madeira Sauce (vg)15

Caramelised Cauliflower Risotto with Hazelnut, Pickled Grapes and Nutritional Yeast (vg/gf) 14

Braised Beef, Horseradish Creamed Potatoes, Carrots cooked in Tarragon Butter, Red Wine Liquor 19

Cajun Spiced Chicken Salad with Granny Smith Apple, Mango and Cashew Nuts, Sweet Potato Fries 17