eat out in algarve

Are you planning a vacation or maybe moving to the Algarve? The Algarve is one of those places that everyone should visit at least once. The area has a spiritual yet charming beauty. In addition, it's blessed with splendid geographical features. And if you are considering relocating to Portugal, the Algarve is unquestionably the best option.

 

You won't just be able to enjoy some stunning housing with friends and family – the Algarve is brimming with delicious foods, marvellous fine dining, and experiences that will have any serious foodie drooling for more. 

 

Restaurant prices will vary greatly depending on where you want to eat. If you choose an up-market restaurant, expect to pay international prices. On the other hand, if you look for local, family-run restaurants, you can eat for very little money while enjoying a delicious meal. Many cheaper restaurants will serve you the main course, coffee, and dessert for around €9, often including a main course, dessert, and coffee.

 

A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost you about €20 per person, which includes a drink and dessert. However, expect to pay upwards of €35 at a more upscale restaurant.

 

Keep reading to discover some of the best foodie experiences and restaurants in the Algarve! Unfortunately, we cannot review all of them as there are too many!

 

Although not a restaurant per se, a visit is worthwhile. Take the opportunity to be swept up by this noble building that is part of the city's history. Situated in the heart of Faro opposite the Faro Marina.

 

The "Columbus" has won honours for Best Bar and Cocktail Menu. The Columbus (Cocktail & Wine Bar) offers a perfect synthesis between the past and today, where the history of the building melts into a sophisticated, detailed décor seasoned with style and comfort. 

 

Each drink is mixed with attentive and careful attention. They make you feel special and unique. Service is passionate, and they use the best local ingredients. Columbus Bar's outstanding service has made it an icon for over 18 years. So relax, sip your favourite drink with the greatest company. The food menu, although simple, offers gourmet toasted sandwiches and tapas-style cuisine.

 

Whether you're searching for a romantic setting or a special occasion celebration, "O Marisco" is one of the best Vilamoura marina restaurants. It’s a stunning Portuguese restaurant with a view of the marina. "O Marisco", which is well-known for its fish specialities, also offers a fantastic selection of daily specials and an à la carte menu. 

 

For those who do not enjoy seafood, there is always the ever-popular and delicious grilled rib-eye steak on the menu to satisfy their cravings. If you want to have a gratifying dining experience in Vilamoura, this is the place to go.

 

For Michelin star restaurants in the Algarve, you cannot beat Vila Joya Restaurant! It is nestled within the Atlantic Ocean's protected natural coastline. Vila Joya was the first Portuguese restaurant to receive two Michelin stars, thanks to Chef Dieter Koschina. 

 

The menu changes daily and is lovingly prepared by Chef Dieter Koschina. You will be pampered on one of the Algarve's most stunning terraces, with the spectacular backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, beneath an arched arcade, and over a gorgeous garden. Not to be missed, and you will have to make a reservation. 

 

Enjoy seafood specialities from the area whilst enjoying a magnificent lakeside view! Eating at "Casa do Lago" is a pleasurable experience. The menu includes fresh fish and seafood cooked with seasonal ingredients to create delectable, tasty dishes. However, when you take your gaze away from the plate, you'll be captivated by the scenic beauty that awaits you outside. The stunning blue water is brimming with local seabirds and pedalo riders. The Ria Formosa and the Atlantic Ocean softly caress the coast just beyond.

 

The dining room has a nautical theme. "Casa do Lago" is a coastal restaurant that invites you to sit back, relax, and take in the view while sipping a cocktail by the lake and savouring the freshest flavours on your plate.

 

Located in the Algarve's Golden Triangle, Izzy's Beach Restaurant overlooks the Vale do Garrão beach. This is what an Algarve beach restaurant experience should be like, complete with sun, sand, and a relaxed back vibe.

 

You can dine inside or out on the patio for lunch and supper or just enjoy a cocktail, particularly at sundown. Izzy’s is one of the best places to see the sunset.

 

Fresh fish and shellfish are the mainstays of Izzy's menu, which changes daily. Portuguese, international, and a children's menu are just a few options available to diners. The tomato rice and African rice are among Izzy's regulars' favourites.

 

For an adult dining experience, this restaurant in Albufeira is a must! The dining room is on the upper floor of a restored historic windmill built in 1938. It provides an intimate atmosphere and only has 12 tables, so bookings are essential! When visiting this restaurant, you can feel the history within its thick walls. The East window provides a beautiful view of the sea and Albufeira. 

 

The Windmill offers a simple, seasonal menu that is updated regularly. Portuguese-grown ingredients are featured prominently in their Mediterranean-inspired menu.

 

The setting alone is worth it! It is sea-facing and has been operating for about 50 years, one of the most established restaurants in the area. You will find the best-grilled seafood that the Algarve can offer!

 

This restaurant offers Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine, with a great choice of attractive and delicious dishes at affordable prices. In addition, it provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel relaxed and enjoy yourself. To finish off your meal, accompany it with a good selection of wine.

 

This classy restaurant, which is perched above the picturesque "Camilo" beach, is well-known for its high-quality seafood specialities. But, don’t worry for those of you who are not partial to fish, the menu offers delectable meat dishes!

 

The dining room, which seats 40 people, is open, bright, and spacious, and the large patio, which seats 28 people, overlooks the ocean. So you can enjoy the vast and beautiful sea views no matter where you sit!

 

Reservations are an excellent idea at any time of year but are especially important during peak season.

 

The Algarve has no shortage of food choices, that is for sure! However, we have but touched the tip of the iceberg with the above choices in ‘must-visit’ restaurants. There are far too many to mention!

 

The Algarve's food culture rivals that of other cities and should not be underestimated when travelling through or settling in Portugal. 

 

Whether you're looking for the best Michelin-starred dining experience or prefer to eat in more simple or traditional settings, the Algarve has it all. Bom Apetite!