The taste of tradition: In the heart of Lagos lies a culinary gem redefining traditional Portuguese dining
– July 21, 2024 | Text Beatriz Maio | Photos Wiktoria Kotlińska
Nestled in a charming, historic building, this restaurant effortlessly marries the timeless allure of Portuguese gastronomy with innovative twists, creating a dining experience that is both familiar and refreshingly original.
As you step into Buteo Kitchen & Bar, you are immediately enveloped by a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
The warm welcome sets the stage for an experience of exceptional food and cocktails that are second to none.
The challenge begins with the menu: should you indulge in the array of tantalising snacks or opt for more substantial starters and main courses? Fortunately, the friendly and knowledgeable staff are always there to guide your choices, ensuring you make the most of your visit. This sense of camaraderie among the team is one of the restaurant’s defining features, creating an environment where both staff and guests feel at home.
The restaurant is the brainchild of Michael Gosling and Bea Hancock, whose paths converged in Lagos. Michael, born on the island of São Miguel in the Azores, and Bea, a native of Silves, met while working in a restaurant and shared a passion for hospitality and a mutual dream of creating something unique.
Both bring over a decade of experience in the UK hospitality scene – Bea began her journey in the sector at the tender age of 14, while Michael started his culinary career in London in 2007. Using their extensive knowledge, the pair was determined to bring their vision to life: “We really like what we do, and we want to give people a one-of-a-kind experience from the moment they arrive until they leave. We want them to appreciate their time here and have an individual experience, but at the same time a collective one,” explained Bea.
Bea oversees the lounge, kitchen, and bar, supported by her cousin João Amaral, who serves as the front-house manager. Michael, on the other hand, is the creative force in the kitchen.
In fact, the name ‘Buteo Kitchen & Bar’, inspired by the Azorean eagle, reflects his culinary inspirations and his adaptation of regional recipes to create something truly special. Their daily presence at Buteo is evident in the seamless operation and the relaxed yet efficient atmosphere. The team, a vibrant mix of Portuguese, English, Argentinian, Polish, and Indian members, works in harmony, reflecting the owners’ ethos of teamwork. “The service is fast and efficient because there is mutual support. We can rely on our team,” underlined the owners.
When the restaurant opened a year ago, they had the essential help of Michael’s older brother Ricardo, known as Ricky, who also has a vast knowledge and passion for this business.
Buteo owes much of its success to the dedication of Michael, Bea, and their team, as well as the invaluable support from the local community.
Even during the quieter winter months, their commitment to maintaining high standards has kept the restaurant thriving with residents.
The menu, crafted with fresh, local ingredients, offers a comforting array of dishes perfect for sharing. “It’s home cooking; cosy food that you normally eat with friends or family,” the owners agree. Among the standout appetisers are the cod fritters, homemade Algarvian carrot hummus, stir-fried tuna bites, prawns in a special piri-piri sauce, and chèvre cheese served with ‘drunken pears’ soaked in Port wine. “I’m very proud of our menu,” Michael said.
Bea, who designed the restaurant’s logo and menu, drew inspiration from Portuguese traditions and the iconic blue azulejos (tiles) reminiscent of the sea. She emphasises the importance of sharing in their dining concept.
“The menu was created with sharing in mind. Our portions are large even for that purpose,” she notes. The main courses continue to impress, offering a variety of choices that make deciding on just one dish a delightful challenge. The seared tuna with caramelised onions and peppers, served with an Azores-style ‘vilão sauce’ (made with pimenta da terra pepper paste made in the Azores, lost of garlic, onions, vinegar and coriander), is a reflection of the restaurant’s essence.
Meat lovers will find themselves torn between the grilled piri-piri chicken, the steak cooked house-style, and black pork cheeks.
For those seeking vegetarian options, the vegetable garden stew and chickpea salad do not disappoint. To accompany the meal, the extensive drink menu features a carefully curated selection of Portuguese wines from various regions, diverse sangrias, craft beers (including some local brews), and signature cocktails.
As your meal draws to a close, the desserts offer a sweet conclusion to a memorable dining experience. The tangerine sorbet, chocolate and orange mousse, and the dessert of the day, crafted by a talented friend of the owners, provide the perfect ending.
With ample outdoor seating and a capacity for over 100 guests, Buteo Kitchen & Bar is more than just a restaurant; it is a place where the flavours of the Algarve come to life, enriched by the talent and warmth of a multicultural team.
This dynamic and passionate team, united by a common goal, has succeeded in creating a space where the Algarve meets the Azores, and every meal is an experience to be savoured.
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