Algarve: Where to Eat
Your Ultimate Foodie Guide.
If you’re planning a trip to the Algarve, get excited about the incredible food scene. This sunny southern region of Portugal isn’t just famous for its stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes; it’s also a paradise for food lovers. There’s so many beachside restaurants serving up classic seafood, as well as some new spots combining rich Portuguese ingredients with a modern, share plate concept for something a little different. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to eat, guaranteed to make your taste buds dance with joy.
1. Vila Joya Sea
For an unforgettable dining experience, Vila Joya Sea is the place to be. It’s my favourite restaurant in the Algarve that I’ll try to book a table at each summer. This Michelin-starred restaurant is quality, while also having a laid back feel. You can perch on the bench out front and enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail as the sun goes down, before your table is ready, which may be my favourite part of visiting. If you have the time, do not miss this recco!
2. Austa
In the heart of the Algarve, new restaurant Austa brings a modern twist to traditional Portuguese cuisine. With its classy, natural-lit interior and innovative menu, this restaurant is perfect for those looking to try something new.
3. Rei Das Praias
For the ultimate beachside dining experience, Rei Das Praias is a must-visit. Located right on the sand, this restaurant serves up fresh seafood with a view to match. Try their grilled fish or seafood platter, and pair it with a Portuguese vinho verde for the perfect meal. It’s a great stop off if you’re visiting Benagil caves early, head to Praia Dos Caneiros (the beach it’s located on) after your morning paddle board for a nap before lunch at the restaurant. Request your table to be on the top terrace!
4. Cafezique - Loulé
Cafezique is a favourite for an occasion, I love the rooftop here and you’re never going to be disappointed with the creativity behind the food menu. It’s in the old town of Loulé right next to the castle, so make sure you have some time before your dinner to wander around and maybe grab a wine at a local café and soak up the vibe of Loulé.
5. Alameda – Faro Town
In Faro, Alameda is a gem offering contemporary Portuguese cuisine in a cozy setting. The menu is seasonal, ensuring that every dish is made with the freshest local ingredients. It’s a tasting-menu style concept, so be prepared for lots of small plates.
6. Marufos: Quarteira
Known locally as “Chicken Shack,” Marufos is iconic for its piri-piri chicken. This no-frills spot is all about the food – delicious, spicy, and perfectly grilled chicken served with fries, tomato and onion salad, and an icy cold caneca/imperial (pint/half pint of Super Bock). Don’t forget a plate of prawns and a plate of clams to start! It’s simple, but oh-so-satisfying.
7. Lodo – Faro Town
Lodo is located in the beautiful Old Town of Faro, serving up fresh seafood, punchy flavours and usually a creative set of specials. The ambiance is relaxed yet refined, making it a great spot for dinner. Their lamb shank is to die for!
8. Casa do Campo - Almancil
For a taste of traditional Algarve cuisine, head to Casa do Campo. This rustic restaurant offers hearty dishes like cataplana (a delicious seafood stew). The charming courtyard setting adds to the cozy, authentic atmosphere. There is a huge ancient fig tree in the middle of the courtyard, so if dining in summer, you may be lucky enough to have a couple of juicy figs drop onto the table, all part of the experience!
9. Monky – Faro
Monky in Faro is a trendy spot with a diverse menu that ranges from sushi to gourmet burgers. It’s perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with friends. Their cocktails are creative and delicious, making it a great place to start your evening.
10. Casavostra - Almancil
Casavostra is the go-to place for Italian cuisine in the Algarve. Located in Almancil, this stylish restaurant serves up delicious pizzas, pastas, and salads. The garden seating area is lovely, especially in the evening. The best bit is, this restaurant is SO reasonably priced, so perfect for a group or family meal out.
11. Butchers - Almancil
Craving a steak that’ll make your mouth water? Butchers in Almancil is where you need to be. This place is famous for serving some of the best steaks in the Algarve. It’s reasonably priced for the area, and the quality of the meat is top-notch. Pair your steak with a glass of Portuguese red wine and you’re in for a dining experience you won’t forget.
12. Dos Passos - Praia da Ançao
Set on a cliff overlooking the ocean, Dos Passos offers amazing views and delicious food. Their menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients with an emphasis on seafood. It’s fairly expensive, so don’t expect traditional prices, but it’s worth it for an occasion.
13. Figueiral - Almancil
Figueiral in Almancil is renowned for its warm hospitality and excellent meat dishes. Make sure to order the picanha - a Portuguese / Brazilian traditional dish where they bring round different steaks on a skewer and slice it fresh in front of you. Make sure to go hungry, it’s a big eat!
14. The Shack – Vale do Lobo
This beach bar is the perfect place to relax with a cocktail in hand, soaking up the sun and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. The food is delicious, the vibe is chill, and the sunsets are unbeatable. They also have live music on specific nights, so check what time these are on if you want to go along / or if you want to avoid the crowds.
15. Brava - Almancil
This tucked away restaurant serves delicious tapas style food, every time I’ve been, I’ve been impressed with not only the quality of the food but also the relaxed atmosphere they have created.
16. A Quinta - Almancil
A Quinta in Almancil is a charming restaurant set in a beautiful garden. My family have been coming here for years, it’s always a classic for us!
Quick Recap:
Vila Joya Sea: Michelin-starred, ocean views, exquisite dining.
Austa: Modern Portuguese cuisine, seafood risotto.
Rei Das Praias: Beachside, fresh seafood.
Alameda: Seasonal menu, octopus salad, and pork.
Marufos: Piri-piri chicken, casual dining.
Lodo: Mediterranean-Portuguese fusion, lamb shank.
Casa do Campo: Traditional Algarve dishes, cozy courtyard.
Monky: Diverse menu, trendy spot.
Casavostra: Italian cuisine, lovely garden seating.
Butchers: Top-notch steaks, Portuguese wine.
Dos Passos: Ocean views, seafood focus.
Figueiral: Excellent meat dishes, cozy atmosphere.
The Shack: Beach bar, cocktails, and seafood.
Brava: Excellent tapas.
A Quinta: Portuguese and international dishes, charming garden.
So there you have it! Your ultimate guide to eating your way through the Algarve. From luxurious dinners to laid-back beach bars, there’s something here for every taste and budget. Enjoy!
