reprinted from DOWNTOWN’s Fall 2024 issue Photography by Philippe Reynaud
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Algarve, Portugal, traditional Portuguese restaurant Casa do Campo stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of epicurean excellence and familial tradition. For more than three decades, Jacqueline Pierce, the visionary owner, has steered this gastronomic haven with unwavering dedication and a passion for perfection. Pierse’s journey to Portugal began in 1986, as a young university student embarking on an internship at the Four Seasons Country Club in Quinto do Lago. Little did she know, this temporary stint would blossom into a lifelong love affair with the country and its rich culinary heritage.
Casa do Campo’s proprietor, Jacqueline Pierse.
Hailing from a lineage of culinary enthusiasts, Pierse’s roots trace back to her grandmother’s legendary Red House Inn in Kildare, Ireland. It was here, amidst the hustle and bustle of the kitchen, that Pierse’s odyssey took flight. Inspired by her grandmother’s culinary prowess, she imbibed the values of hard work, innovation, and a deep reverence for quality ingredients.
Upon her return to Portugal in 1988, armed with a degree in Communications from Dublin City University, Pierse’s trajectory took an unexpected turn. A chance encounter led her to the helm of Casa do Campo, a rustic gem waiting to be polished. With boundless enthusiasm and a touch of youthful exuberance, she and her husband embarked on a transformative journey.
The early days were filled with challenges, from bare earth floors to the absence of glass windows. Yet, fueled by a shared vision and an indomitable spirit, the pair breathed new life into Casa do Campo. In May 1991, amidst humble beginnings, Casa do Campo opened its doors to a world hungry for gastronomic innovation.
Eschewing the conventional, Pierse sought to elevate Portuguese cuisine to new heights. Fresh produce sourced from their own land became the cornerstone of Casa do Campo’s ethos. What began as a modest endeavor blossomed into a sprawling 12-acre farm, teeming with organic fruits, vegetables, and fragrant herbs.
Central to Casa do Campo’s success is its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. With Chef Fernando at the helm for the past 24 years, Casa do Campo has become synonymous with excellence. Chef Fernando’s mastery of local ingredients and his deep connection to the land infuses each dish with an unmistakable sense of place. Casa do Campo exudes warmth and hospitality, a credit to Pierse’s unwavering dedication to her staff and patrons. With a team of loyal employees, some serving for over three decades, Casa do Campo is more than a restaurant—it’s a family.
As the Algarve continues to evolve, Casa do Campo remains a beacon of authenticity amidst a sea of trends. Pierse’s advice to newcomers echoes her own journey—venture beyond the familiar, embrace the unexpected, and savor the richness of Portugal’s culinary tapestry. As the sun sets over the Algarve, Casa do Campo symbolizes the importance of good food, good company, and the enduring legacy of one woman’s culinary journey. casadocampoalgarve.com