Algarve is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe, known for its stunning Blue Flag beaches, spectacular cliffs dotted with caves, islets, coves, lagoons, and nature parks. In the hinterland of the Algarve lies historic cities and medieval towns, and quaint fishing villages that are filled with quality restaurants, cafes, pubs & bars, and nightclubs that draw youths from all over Europe. Algarve receives over 300 days of sunshine and a pleasant climate that makes it a highly popular destination for the residents of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany.
However, beaches are not the only attractions of this region which sees millions of travellers each year. Holidays to Algarve are a dream for foodies. Algarve is known for its great restaurants and chefs which attracts chefs from all around the world to set up establishments and play with different cuisine and fused them with Portuguese cuisine. The Algarve’s food is dominated by seafood barbecues of grilled sardines while enjoying scenic beauty and wonderful sunsets. The region of famous for its wines, desserts, and custard tarts, known as Pastel de nata. The region is also famous for its guided food tour that offers tasting menus and provides amazing insight into Portuguese cuisine.
Dining won’t be an issue for even the fussiest of eaters in the Algarve, there’s plenty to choose from and the region is rich in restaurants. Whether you want to try traditional Portuguese cuisine or enjoy some home comforts, there’s something for everyone! Seafood lovers will be in a haven as they will savour some of the best fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and delicious flavours.
Travelup presents a list of the 10 best restaurants to eat at on Algarve holidays that will allow travellers to savour the very best food on their holidays to Algarve.
10 Best Restaurants to Eat on Algarve Holidays
- Loki Restaurante, Portimao
- Vista, Albufeira
- Vila Joya Sea
- Al Quimia, Albufeira
- Gusto, Almancil
- O Marinheiro, Albufeira
- Restaurante Rei das Praias, Ferragudo
- Tasca do Kiko, Lagos
- Ocean, Porches
- Gigi’s Beach Bar Quinta do Lago, Almancil
1. Loki Restaurante
Loki Restaurante is located next to the Ponte Velha bridge in Portimao. This contemporary Portuguese restaurant serves delicious food with fresh local ingredients. The chef of the restaurant takes pleasure and time to explain the dishes and takes pride in the fresh and locally sourced ingredients and products. This restaurant has a charming and elegant atmosphere. This amazing restaurant is highly celebrated and is heavily booked and visited by both locals and visitors. Getting a place to sit in the restaurant needs prior advance booking.
2. Vista
Located in Bela Vista Hotel & Spa in Praia da Rocha in Albufeira, Vista is a Michelin-starred restaurant. Vista is a delightful restaurant with a rich reputation for serving delectable food along with the ambience, the views of the ocean and high-quality seafood. The restaurant has two sets of menus including a seasonal menu. Opt for the Vista menu that includes a delicate presentation of food, a variety of textures and wonderful flavours.
3. Vila Joya Sea
Vila Joya Sea is a delightful barbecue restaurant that has secured 2 Michelin stars during its 20 years of operation. Located on the hillside at the Praia da Gale in Albufeira, this amazing restaurant has a reputation for serving delectable food that matches the stunning views of the Atlantic. The menu changes daily and is supervised by the head chef. The food reflects the chef’s philosophy of having a balance between ingredients and flavours coupled with a delicate presentation.
4. Al Quimia
Al Quimia is in the Epic Sana Hotel in Albufeira. This classic restaurant takes pride in using and sourcing local, sustainable produce and ingredients to provide a true taste of the Algarve region. Here you can find tasting menus inspired by the landscape prepared with fresh ingredients and very well-balanced. The food is served with an optional serving of locally produced Portuguese wines.
5. Gusto
Gusto is an award-winning gourmet restaurant located in the Conrad Algarve Hotel in Almancil, Algarve. This famous restaurant is run by a reputed 3 Michelin-starred chef, who has designed an extensive tasting menu. The menus comprise 5 to 7 courses, all prepared with the highest standards and professionalism. The interiors are chic and stylish, and the staff maintains the highest standards of professionalism.
6. O Marinheiro
O Marinheiro is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for serving delectable contemporary Portuguese and International dishes. Located in Albufeira, Algarve’s maritime root serves as the prime inspiration for the O Marinheiro and is evident in the interiors and food. The menu of this restaurant includes a wide range of starters and main courses comprising meat and fish dishes. The barbecue dishes are cooked on a grill that uses charcoal to give a smoky flavour.
7. Restaurante Rei das Praias
Restaurante Rei das Praias is a popular seafood restaurant located on Praia dos Caneiros in Ferragudo, Algarve. The restaurant is positioned on the beach which is surrounded by cliffs and offers stunning views of the Atlantic including beautiful sunsets. The menu offered by the restaurant is comprised of fresh seafood, cooked to perfection using local ingredients and packs plenty of flavours.
8. Tasca do Kiko
Tasca do Kiko is located just a short walk south of Marina de Lagos and is a Spanish and Portuguese restaurant. The restaurant serves delicious range of tapas, which is a popular Spanish dish. The tapas dishes are mostly seafood featuring shellfish, octopus, and prawns. The seared tuna is also a great option which is served with a glass of sangria or wine. The restaurant is also frequented by locals and is a great place to enjoy lunch and dinner.
9. Ocean
The Ocean is a part of the 5-star Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa, located in Porches in the Algarve. This elegant restaurant faces Praia dos Tremocos and offers sweeping views of the Atlantic. The restaurant is known for showcasing amazing tasting menus that are seasonal. The staff is also polite and cordial and takes pleasure to explain in detail the ingredients and flavours. The restaurant also offers a great selection of Portuguese wines.
10. Gigi’s Beach Bar
Gigi’s Beach Bar is located in the Quinta do Lago area of Almancil. Placed in a stilted wooden house on the dunes off the beach. The restaurant overlooks the tidal lagoon of Ria Formosa National Park and enjoys the fresh and cool Atlantic Sea breeze. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is known for amazing menus based on seafood barbecue.
