A new concept in eating out
It is about five years ago when Sascha and Oliver started to make their dream come true. They bought an old country house in need of renovation here in the Algarve, including a large plot of land.
They started to renovate the house little by little, employing local craftsmen and businesses and paying attention to the use of sustainable materials, first of all wood. And they attached importance to a self-sufficient construction method.
Their vision was a small but fine restaurant. Because both men are passionate cooks and have a collection of recipes from all over the world.
They took their time to select the interiors and regularly visited the charity shops and local markets. They purchased handmade unique pieces and well-preserved, sometimes as good as new items at fair prices. In this way they created an individual ambience and at the same time supported local trade. Word of their project spread around and neighbours came by, bringing the odd souvenir as a gift, in appreciation of the good idea.
Sascha and Oliver decided to start their dream not as a public restaurant, but on a private basis, as a club. To gain first experiences. On Sundays the invitations are sent to friends and neighbours with the menu of the week. Maximum 18 people. Upon consultation, the guests bring wine, spirits and beverages.
Other special features: there is no Wifi, no smartphones, no TV. Entertainment is provided by relaxed lounge instrumentals or music on demand. The individual tables are generously spaced apart. High green plants and wooden screens underline the relaxed arrangement. Everyone can talk privately, out of hearing distance of the table neighbour. In summer, al fresco dining is served, in case of bad weather guests are enjoying the spacious winter garden.
Their current concept would even partially comply with the strict Corona regulations that the government is imposing on the local restaurants for a reopening at the beginning of May.
The big difference is between private and public. In the private sphere, as an association or club, there is much more flexible scope for designing the details and setting your own rules. One remains small, but more independent.
The two friends repeatedly receive requests to take over the catering for larger or smaller celebrations. But they do not want to expand. They have teamed up with local winegrowers, olive oil producers and local farmers to work out joint marketing ideas. The concept of "stay regional" is finding more and more supporters, especially in context with the experience made during the current crisis.
A large number of people is realizing that global supply chains from abroad are no longer appropriate. The future will go local.
© Solandra (April 26th, 2020)
Translated with the help of DeepL
Proofread by the author