Vila Joya is a hidden gem in the Algarve, located in Galé. Although it’s on the road, it’s invisible from the street. On the south side, there's a divine terrace with 12 tables, just 100 meters from the ocean. With a small private sandy beach, where Pavilion Vila Joya Sea is located, it feels like paradise. What was once a private villa still retains that same luxury and personal atmosphere. You really feel pampered here, as you will read in this restaurant review.
"Feels like home, tastes like paradise." Vila Joya offers 4 rooms, 9 suites, 2 Michelin stars, and an exceptional team. Chef Dieter Koschina has made Vila Joya one of the most highly regarded and sought-after dining experiences in the Algarve. The combination of beautiful gardens, breathtaking views, and simple yet refined elegance completes the picture. It is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in the Algarve.
At Vila Joya, the menu changes daily under the guidance of Chef Dieter Koschina, who has held two Michelin stars for more than two decades. For €220, you can enjoy a daily menu, while the fixed tasting menu costs €250. A great feature of this restaurant is that the menu can also be vegetarian, dairy-free, or vegan, which is not always the case with traditional Michelin-starred restaurants.
Our Lunch at Vila Joya Restaurant- First Starter: Tomato tartare – Delicious and fresh.- Second Starter: Mushrooms on a bed of green peas.- Main Course: Pearl barley with a delightful tomato sauce.- Dessert Starter: Roasted almond, almond blossom ice cream, almond cream, and orange. A little delight!- Main Dessert: Mango, passion fruit coconut ice cream.- Surprise: Cannelloni biscuit with berry sauce.- Tea with three petit fours: white chocolate, brown chocolate, and profiteroles.
At Vila Joya, they cater to all dietary preferences and allergies, provided these are communicated in advance when booking. This shows that Chef Koschina is not only a master in the kitchen but also flexible and hospitable.
Vila Joya is open for lunch and dinner, allowing you to enjoy their exquisite dishes at any time of the day.
Upon arrival, you are personally welcomed by owner Joy in the hall of the villa where she used to live with her parents. It feels like visiting an old friend. You are greeted with a delicious organic mocktail or cocktail, on the lounge sofa or at the bar, followed by five delightful amuse-bouches.
The team at Vila Joya is a cheerful, creative, and open mix of people. They exude happiness and tranquility, contributing to the relaxed and luxurious atmosphere of the restaurant. They are not like robots, as is sometimes the case in other fine dining restaurants.
Personally visited & reviewed by Peter Cruiming
