The main artists are the ingredients, the crew is backstage, the menu is the show script, and, if you want to make a reservation, head to the box office.
This is the concept created by Marco Almeida and Ana Vinagre for their restaurant in Coimbra: the kitchen as a show. It's called O Palco (the stage) and puts local products and producers under the spotlight.
A great deal of curiosity, a desire to learn and the intention of highlighting seasonal products and local producers are at the heart of this restaurant's creation. Little-known, little-used or less noble products gain strength through art, creativity and innovation.
Proof of this is the reference, on the menu, to the suppliers of the ingredients for each dish and the distance they are located from the restaurant, which is defined as “0 km restaurant” to emphasize this close relationship with the producers.
In addition to on-site service, this restaurant also provides its audience with a show at home through personalized catering.
Chef Marco Almeida describes his work as “simple, flavorful, product-based signature cuisine”, always punctuated by personal and family memories.
O Palco opened in 2022 and, in 2024, became part of the list of restaurants recommended by the Michelin Guide.
The kitchen is open and customers have front row seats.
FN hotelaria was the company responsible for developing the project, supplying and installing the hotel equipment that equips the kitchen (preparation, cooking and pantry), including the cooking block from the Italian brand Baron, as well as equipment for the bar and the storage room.