Palácio Belmonte has opened Grenache, a 41-seat restaurant that creates a "new exquisite" of high-end French gastronomy and is helmed by talented young chef Philippe Gelfi, formerly of the Michelin-starred La Reserve and Bistro Volney.
Grenache represents the reunion of two good friends: Chef Gelfi and Sommelier Quentin Vedovati, both from Provence, and both lovers of good wines and quality foods. Their first meeting was at Restaurant Christian Etienne, located in Avignon; they later crossed paths again in Paris at Pierre Sang. They then followed separate culinary growth paths -- Gelfi at La Reserve and Bistro Volney, and Vedovati at Botanique and Grand Coeur - that ultimately led them back together in Lisbon to launch a new concept based on their extensive experience with high-end French fare.
At Grenache, guests are treated to aspirational French cuisine using local Portuguese produce and staple ingredients, with the overall mission to offer guests a simple, authentic cuisine respectful of each season. The summer menu features appetizers such as Mackerel marinated in vinegar, texture of beetroots, wild berries, and Octopus, avocado, condiment of black garlic and lemon, crispy quinoa, that showcase local ingredients using French culinary methods, textures, and plating.
For main courses, guests can expect innovative culinary surprises, from Prawns and Ricotta ravioli, fennel carpaccio, capers, bisque to Beef tataki, eggplant, daikon, soy sauce and miso. Guests can order a la carte, or opt for the 6-course or 8-course tasting menu that features the best of Chef Gelfi's imaginative cuisine.An expansive wine selection of vintage Portuguese, French, Italian, Greek, and Spanish labels is curated and poured by Vedovati, and is also available as a pairing menu.
For dessert, summery dishes such as Portuguese cheese, fresh figs, figs sorbet, red fruit sangria jelly, thyme brioche or Fresh apricot, hazelnut financier, verbena and white chocolate emulsion are the perfect ending to a vibrant seasonal meal.
"Patrons of Grenache will find themselves immersed in a sensorial experience far beyond what is expected," said Frederic Coustols, owner of Palacio Belmonte. "We are elated to usher in a revolution of magnificent French cuisine that will exist as a perfect addition to the fine dining landscape of Lisbon."
An epic wine selection of vintage Portuguese, French, Italian, Greek and Spanish labels is curated and poured by Sommelier Quentin Vedovati,, and available as a pairing menu or a la carte. For dessert, summery dishes such as Portuguese cheese, fresh figs, figs sorbet, red fruit sangria jelly, thyme brioche; Fresh apricot, hazelnut financier, verbena and white chocolate emulsion or Chocolate and lime curd, pop corn/pimento ice cream, crispy cacao leaves culminate a perfectly balanced gastronomical experience.
"Patrons of Grenache will find themselves immersed in a sensorial experience far beyond what is expected," said Frederic Coustols, Owner of Palacio Belmonte. "We are elated to usher in a revolution of magnificent French cuisine that will exist as a perfect addition to the fine dining landscape of Lisbon."
Beyond cuisine, Grenache also serves as a gallery showcasing art exhibitions to enhance the ambience of the restaurant, including the current presentation of metallic sculptures by French artist Philippe Mougin.
At Grenache, guests can have the restaurant to themselves for a private celebration or gathering, or book a large table or private room, based on their specific needs. Al fresco dining in front of Palácio Belmonte within the quaint and charming Páteo Dom Fradique is also available.
Grenache is located at: Páteo Dom Fradique, 12 1100-624 Lisboa, Portugal
For reservations, contact +351 218 871 616 / reservations@grenache.pt. For more information about Grenache, visit https://grenache.pt. For more details about Palácio Belmonte, visit www.palaciobelmonte.com.
