The Best Restaurants in the Algarve: Albufeira & Lagos
The Algarve isn't just about golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sunny skies—it's also one of Portugal's most exciting culinary regions. From fresh seafood straight off the boat to modern twists on traditional Portuguese fare, the Algarve is a food lover's paradise. Two standout dining destinations are Albufeira and Lagos, each offering its own distinct charm and mouthwatering options.
Whether you're after a romantic waterfront dinner, a laid-back beachside lunch, or an authentic local tavern, here's where to eat in Albufeira and Lagos.
Top Restaurants in Albufeira
O Marinheiro
Address: Caminho Praia da Coelha - Sesmarias 350H
Website: https://omarinheiro.com/
Tucked away in the quiet Sesmarias neighborhood, O Marinheiro offers a cozy, elegant atmosphere perfect for a relaxed dinner. The menu blends Mediterranean and Portuguese flavors, with highlights like grilled octopus, lamb chops, and sea bass fillet. Pair your meal with a local wine from the Algarve or Douro Valley.
Why go: Romantic ambiance, excellent service, and consistently fresh seafood.
A Ruína
Address: Herculaneum Pier, 8200-061 Albufeira
Website: https://www.restaurante-ruina.com/
Set in the old town above Albufeira's main beach, this iconic spot offers stunning sea views from its terrace and traditional Algarvian cuisine. The catch of the day is grilled to perfection and served simply with olive oil, lemon, and local vegetables.
Must-try: Grilled sardines or the "Cataplana de Marisco" (seafood stew cooked in a copper pot).
Veneza
Address: Estr. de Paderne, 8200-488 Albufeira
Website: https://www.restauranteveneza.com/
Located just outside the city center in Paderne, Veneza is a hidden gem with a vast wine cellar and authentic regional dishes. Locals love dishes like pork with clams (Carne de Porco à Alentejana) and wild boar stew.
Insider tip: Ask your server to recommend a wine pairing—they have one of the best wine selections in the Algarve.
Os Arcos Restaurante
Address: Alves Correia Street 25 8200-090 Albufeira
Website: https://osarcos-oldtown.pt/
Os Arcos is a small and welcoming restaurant in the heart of Albufeira's old town. Expect generous portions, friendly service, and standout dishes like garlic prawns, grilled seabream, and steak on the stone.
Why go: Casual but top-quality dining at a reasonable price.
Top Restaurants in Lagos
Casinha do Petisco
Address: Rua da Oliveira 51 Lagos
Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057196100377
This family-run restaurant is famous for its massive portions and home-cooked flavors. It's a must-visit for those looking for hearty Portuguese cuisine. Their signature dish? Cataplana de Marisco—a seafood lover's dream.
Tip: It's extremely popular, so get there early or expect a wait!
Restaurante dos Artistas
Address: Rua Cândido dos Reis 68, 8600-681 Lagos
Website: https://www.artistasrestaurant.com/
Located in a charming 17th-century building in Lagos' historic center, this fine-dining spot fuses Portuguese ingredients with international gourmet flair. Dishes are artfully plated and often change with the seasons.
Highlights: Foie gras, rack of lamb, and creative desserts. Vegetarian options are available.
A Forja
Address: Rua do Ferreiros 17, 8600-330 Lagos
Website: N/A (but widely reviewed on Google and TripAdvisor)
A true local favorite, A Forja is known for its fresh, no-frills seafood and unbeatable value. The daily catch is grilled to perfection, and dishes like sardines, dourada, and swordfish come generously portioned.
Don’t Miss: The grilled octopus and the mixed seafood platter.
Tip: It’s cash-only and doesn’t take reservations, so arrive early to avoid a wait.
The Garden
Address: Rua Lançarote de Freitas 27, 8600-605 Lagos
Website: https://www.facebook.com/thegardenlagos/
Perfect for a sunny lunch or relaxed dinner, The Garden offers a lush outdoor courtyard and a menu full of fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The grilled meats and seafood platters are popular, and there's a good cocktail menu, too.
Why go: Chill vibes and excellent service are ideal for groups or families.
A Taste of the Algarve
Dining in the Algarve isn't just about eating—it's about savoring the moment. Whether you're looking out over the Atlantic with a glass of vinho verde in hand or nestled in a rustic tavern with locals, the region's culinary scene is diverse, fresh, and full of heart.
Pro Tips for Dining Out in Albufeira & Lagos:
- Restaurant hours can change seasonally, so call or check the website to confirm the most up-to-date information.
- Reservations are recommended in high season (June–September)
- Most restaurants serve fresh daily catches, so always ask about the specials
- Don't skip dessert—fig, almond, and carob-based sweets are local specialties
- Try a glass of Medronho, a traditional fruit brandy from the Algarve, to finish your meal
Hungry yet? Albufeira and Lagos are calling with unforgettable flavors and warm Portuguese hospitality. Whether you're in the mood for upscale dining or a cozy local favorite, you'll find something to love at every table in the Algarve. Discover the flavors of the Algarve for yourself on a customer Quest Travel Adventures itinerary. Our most popular trips include Algarve Sun Seeker, Azores and the Algarve Summer Discovery, Alentejo Wine Region and Algarve Self-Drive Exploration and Porto, the Algarve, and Lisbon.
