Experience premier dining inspired by Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese influences, set against the natural beauty and spirit of this coastal town
– December 13, 2024 | Text Beatriz Maio | Photos Giancarlo Fortuna
Nestled in the heart of Sagres, Carme restaurant is an experience that encapsulates the natural beauty and spirit of this coastal town. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a sense of calm and serenity, set against the backdrop of some of the Algarve’s most breathtaking sea views.
Whether you’re stopping by for a leisurely lunch, a refined dinner, or simply a cocktail at sunset, Carme promises an unforgettable visit where food, drink, and atmosphere come together harmoniously.
Carme is the brainchild of Andrea Ferrari. A native of the village of Castel San Giovanni near Piacenza, in northern Italy, he is a chef and entrepreneur whose passion for food runs deep.
After five years studying cookery at the hospitality school in Piacenza (G. Marcora) and working as a bartender and cook in his homeland, Andrea honed his skills at top restaurants in Italy and Spain, including the three-Michelin-starred Martin Berasategui, in Lasarte, Spain.
However, it was the Algarve’s natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle that ultimately captured his heart. “I only planned to stay in Sagres for a few months, but I fell in love with the Algarve and Portugal,” Andrea recalls.
“The proximity to the sea, the unspoiled nature, and the climate… it was impossible to leave.”
He started as a chef in restaurants in Sagres, later working at the Avenida restaurant in Lagos and at the Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel Praia da Luz, before eventually returning to the place that first welcomed him.
Carme opened its doors in March 2023, and since then, it has quickly established itself as one of Sagres’ premier dining destinations. Andrea’s culinary style is inspired by the Mediterranean, blending Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese influences to create dishes that are simple yet sophisticated.
Much of his love for food comes from his grandmother, Carmen, for whom the restaurant is named.
“Every Sunday, the family would get together to eat at my grandmother’s house, and I would help her cook,” he recalls. It’s this familial connection, combined with his professional expertise, that gives Carme its unique charm.
“Cooking is my greatest passion. I enjoy making dishes with simple flavours in an elaborate way, with care, to please the customers,” he stressed.
Although every dish on the menu was created by Andrea, he is not alone in bringing Carme’s vision to life. In the kitchen, chef Samuele Maselli, from Bologna, shares the owner’s dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
“Although we focus on fish and seafood, we want to have options for all tastes, always with quality local products,” Andrea emphasised.
Sagres is known for its rugged coastline and stunning sunsets, and Carme makes the most of its privileged location.
As you settle in for your meal, you’re treated to a panoramic sea view that enhances the entire dining experience.
The restaurant’s décor is rustic yet elegant, with wooden tables, straw accents, and handmade crockery lending a relaxed, coastal charm. The inviting terrace and garden, complete with comfy chairs, create the perfect setting for a laid-back afternoon or a romantic evening.
At Carme, the atmosphere is integral to the overall experience. Indie rock and chillout music play softly in the background, blending seamlessly with the sound of the ocean. The restaurant’s ambience strikes a balance between casual comfort and understated luxury, appealing to both locals and international visitors alike.
Carme’s menu reflects the very best of Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is crafted with care and precision, offering a celebration of flavours that is both refined and approachable. The menu features a range of starters and mains that make it hard to choose – yet no matter what you select, satisfaction is guaranteed.
Among the stand-out starters is the sea salad, a beautifully presented dish featuring mussels, cuttlefish, octopus, and prawns, all dressed with edible flowers. For something a little more robust, the tuna, beef, or beetroot tartare all offer a delightful combination of textures and flavours.
The presentation is a work of art, showcasing Andrea Ferrari’s attention to detail.
Freshness is paramount at Carme, with much of the seafood and produce sourced directly from the Vila do Bispo market. The grilled fish is a must-try, perfectly cooked and bursting with natural flavour.
For those seeking a lighter option, the tuna tataki with carrot and ginger cream and teriyaki sauce is a revelation – a vibrant dish that delights the palate without overwhelming it.
Vegetarians are also well catered for, with inventive dishes like the cauliflower curry, served with aubergine purée and fried tomato pesto, or the classic niçoise salad, both dishes prepared with the same dedication to quality and taste.
To finish with a sweet treat, let yourself be surprised by the homemade tartlet with custard or the almond and hazelnut semifreddo.
Drinks at Carme are an experience in their own right. For cocktail lovers, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of both classic and signature creations. The imperial sangria, a house speciality made with prosecco, vodka, Saint Germain, soda, and red fruits, is a must-try. Alcohol-free options are just as enticing, providing something for everyone to enjoy. Meanwhile, Carme’s wine list is a journey through Portugal, with a handpicked selection of 30 wines representing all the major regions.n
Despite his busy schedule, Andrea remains deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the restaurant. From visiting the market each morning to overseeing the lounge and bar, his hands-on approach ensures that every guest enjoys the highest standard of food and service. As a result of the team’s attentiveness, Carme’s appeal is as diverse as its clientele. The restaurant attracts visitors from around the world from Americans and Canadians to French, Italians, Spaniards, Germans, and of course, the Portuguese. Its pet-friendly policy adds to the relaxed, welcoming vibe, making it the perfect spot for a family meal or a quiet solo retreat.
By day, Carme functions as an elegant beach bar, with snacks to go and a lively happy hour. By night, it transforms into a refined dining space, where guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine and fine wines, perfect for summer or winter.
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