Midori

Midori is the first Japanese restaurant in Portugal to receive a Michelin star, situated within the Penha Longa Resort in Sintra. It offers a modern Japanese dining experience in an intimate setting, with views overlooking the resort gardens and the Sintra hills. The restaurant honors traditional Japanese cuisine while creating a dialogue between Japan and Portugal through its choice of ingredients, techniques, and cultural references. The name Midori, meaning "green" in Japanese, reflects the lush surroundings of the resort and the Serra de Sintra. Established in its current form in 2017, Midori preserves the essence of the original restaurant, which had operated for 25 years, while enhancing its exclusive identity. The space features minimalist decor that directs focus to the cuisine, complemented by a hand-painted mural depicting the arrival of Portuguese sailors in Japan in 1543 and tile panels inspired by the sea. The refined atmosphere is defined by its open kitchen, fostering a close connection between guests and the culinary team. Intercultural design elements subtly link Portuguese and Japanese heritage, creating a sophisticated environment centered on food and service. Midori’s cuisine presents a ritualistic tasting menu that blends traditional Japanese foundations with Portuguese ingredients and sensibility. Chef Pedro Almeida leads this culinary journey, combining rigorous technique, premium ingredients, and a sensory experience that bridges both cultures. His background includes training under sushi master Paulo Morais, leadership roles in Lisbon’s dining scene, and research trips across Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, all informing the distinctive offerings at Midori. The restaurant also features wine pairing menus to complement its Michelin-starred modern Japanese cuisine.