Gusto

Having dined at Gusto at the Conrad Algarve at least five times over the years, it has long been a reliable fixture for fine dining, a kitchen where precision, panache, and inventive Italian-inspired execution were virtually guaranteed. Unfortunately, our latest visit proved that past laurels are no protection against a sharp decline in ambition and basic hospitality standards. Our disappointment began the moment we were seated. We were handed only a restricted fixed menu, presented in a way that left us believing it was the sole dining option available. Only upon inquiring after dinner did the staff apologize, explaining that the full à la carte menu had been withheld "by omission." Intentional or not, the message conveyed to the table was uncomfortably clear: eat what you're given, and don't bother us with off-script wishes. Beyond the initial misstep, the meal itself failed to turn the evening around. Course after course lacked its usual spark, coasting on technical routine rather than culinary imagination. The lone, stalwart exception was the signature Fagottelli Carbonara. As delicate, explosive, and perfectly executed as ever, it remains a triumph. However, a single masterstroke cannot carry an entire tasting menu on its shoulders. The wine pairing was an even sharper disappointment. There is a thin line between authentic sommelier discovery and cost-cutting pretension: Presenting dull, uninspired wines under the romantic guise of "boutique, small-scale producers" is fine in theory, but in practice, it delivered average quality at wildly inflated prices. The interaction was stiff and out of step with what one expects at this level. To compound the evening’s missteps, even the post-dinner espresso failed to deliver a proper crema. For an Italian anchored, Michelin starred establishment, missing the mark on a basic espresso is an unpardonable oversight. While general service was pleasant enough to offer a belated apology, nice service cannot compensate for uninspired cooking and a rigid, off-putting guest experience. The overall trajectory is clear: prices have gone up, while culinary invention has gone down. A thoroughly forgettable evening from a restaurant that used to set the standard. We walked out with 600+ € check for 2 ( while only I drank wine) and sour palate.

Optimum

Went to the restaurant with high expectations and we were not disappointed. From the second we walked in we were welcomed and seated at our table immediately. Every member of staff we passed wished us good evening. We chose the 9 course tasting menu which came with canapés before and petit four after. The service was impeccable our sommelier was incredibly knowledgeable and gave us a wonderful insight of the wines we were about to enjoy. The pairings were absolutely spot on for the food which was stunningly presented and tasted amazing especially the signature dish which we were told won the owner his third Michelin star. To top the evening my partner was presented with a small chocolate and raspberry cake with happy birthday written in chocolate on the plate. A truly awesome evening at a truly awesome place. We have been to a 3 start restaurant in the north of England and this place is every bit as good. A fact we shared with the chef when he came over to introduce himself to us. Would recommend to everyone and we will be going back in a heartbeat. 10 out of 5 stars Gusto!!!