A rather average experience but with super friendly service: Restaurant Alambique (5. January 2023)
The Alambique is listed in the Guide Michelin app, but without a star, so I had high hopes for it. And let me put it that way, they were not entirely disappointed, but neither were they fulfilled. Once you’re sated, you’re attended by one of many waiters. I think for each course, I had a different waiter. In any case, you get “bread, butter, olives and oil” without being asked, and they charge you EUR 4.00 for that (cover charge). Frankly, just not a fan of that concept.
Then you’re served an amuse bouche which is some kind of “fried fish and liver” which was not explained. Just placed in front of you, and that’s it. I mean, sure, it was good, frankly, it was actually quite to my liking, but I do wonder why no one would explain what was put on the table.
As a starter I went for the “sea bass ceviche” (EUR 22.00), which seemed more like a sea bass soup to me since there was a lot of leche de tigre in which the fish was bathing. However, in combination with the mango, the dish was actually very enjoyable. So, somehow, I was looking forward to the main dish.
As a main, I decided to go for the “monkfish curry with coriander rice” (EUR 35.00). Firstly, the curry was actually quite tasty. Secondly, the presentation is really more like you know from these simple in the middle of nowhere kind of Swiss restaurant. So, Alambique can definitely work on presentation.
The “garlic spinach” (EUR 9.50) was good as well (and very garlic-y, but you get what you ask for) but a bit expensive in my book.
Frankly, despite the fact that for each course there was another waiter or waitress, they did a marvellous job since they were very friendly and made sure you have everything you need at all times.
On top of that, the place looks super appealing from the outside …
… and also quite okay from the inside, but it isn’t as appealing, of course. In any case, the Alambique is a decent place to enjoy a dinner – don’t expect miracles, but something solid and enjoyable.
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Contact Details:
Restaurant Alambique
Estrada de Quinta do Lago
8135-160 Almancil (PT)
Tel.: +351 289 394 579
E-Mail: restaurantealambique@sapo.pt
Homepage: http://www.alambique.net
About the Author: Sven
I started the blog in October 2009, while living in Milan which I definitely consider to be one of the food capitals of the world. I was in touch with food since my early childhood (as my father is a former chef). Whenever I can, I travel the world to discover new places, to meet people but mostly to try local dishes and to find hidden gems! If you know a place worth going, please drop a line to: info@thediningexperience.org.
Currently, I am a member of the following food-related associations: Chevalier @Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Zurich-Ville; Membre Gourmet Dégustateur @Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs [OMGD]; Gesellschafter @Goldener Fisch and Member @Slowfood Convivium Zurich City. 
