Dawn Berkoski

It was a friend’s special birthday, so we decided to have dinner at Antqvvm, a 2 Michelin star restaurant. A food lover would write poems about the taste, scent, and texture of the dishes at Antiqvvm. I’m not that girl.

Instead, I’ll show you some beautiful dishes. and tell you all about the purple flowers I passed on my scenic walk there. Sweet, with a mix of ocean air, like saltwater taffy on a summer day.

Beneath my feet, a stone pathway that felt like I was ascending somewhere grand. And further below, near the river’s edge, the romantic ruins of the 18th century manor house, Casa Nobre do Cais Novo.

The encroaching nature and signs of age made the building appear even more beautiful and precious. It reminded me of a simple truth: Wealth means nothing in the end, especially in comparison to the company of good friends.

(I would repeat that thought later when I received the bill.)

But at that moment, everything was perfect. We sipped cocktails. My friend teased me about how I had to stop every few minutes to take a photo and then insisted on taking one of me. To our right, the sweeping golden arch of the Ponte da Arrábida reflected the setting sun and welcomed the night.

As if on cue, a chill swept up the Duoro River from the foreign side of the sea, and the temperature dropped as the sun disappeared, so we went inside to eat. I cleaned my plate, not leaving a crumb. It was as delicious as everyone raved.

Later, as we walked towards the exit, flushed from the tasting menu paired with wine, even the dark stairs looked beautiful. I flittered around, forgetting the cold and taking photos. And when I saw the color of the door by the gate, I smiled wide and said: “Look! It’s green! “

My friend laughed, not knowing about the mysterious doors that dodged my steps.

I laughed too, warmed by the serene experience.

Dawn B~