WhereInRio & Beyond
Where to Eat in the Algarve in 2025: The Best Local Restaurants
The Algarve isn’t just beaches and sunsets — it’s grilled fish still sizzling from the fire, octopus stews passed down for generations, and seafood cataplana that tastes like the ocean in a pot.
Stretching from east to west, this sun-soaked region of Portugal blends traditional flavours with a growing wave of creative chefs. From no-frills local tascas to elegant dining rooms with Atlantic views, the Algarve delivers big on flavour — and charm.
Here’s a curated guide to 10 of the best restaurants across the Algarve where you can eat like a local (and leave very happy).
1. A Forja (Lagos)
No reservations, no fuss — just fresh fish grilled to perfection. A Forja is a Lagos institution where locals come for simple, honest seafood at unbeatable prices.
Address: R. dos Ferreiros 17, 8600-330 Lagos, Portugal
Average price: 15–25€
Tip: Go early or be ready to wait — it’s always full, and for good reason.
2. Marisqueira Rui (Silves)
If you’re craving fresh seafood, this is the place. Marisqueira Rui serves heaping trays of prawns, crab, clams, and lobster in a relaxed, no-frills setting. Messy, delicious, and unforgettable.
Address: R. Comendador Vilarinho 27, 8300-148 Silves, Portugal
Average price: 30–40€
Tip: The garlic prawns and seafood rice are must-orders.
3. O Camilo (Lagos)
Perched above the beach, O Camilo spot offers the full Algarve package: grilled fish, ocean views, and breezy vibes. Try the dourada or the fish soup with a squeeze of lemon.
Address: Estr. da Ponta da Piedade, 8600-544 Lagos, Portugal
Average price: 25–35€
Tip: Reserve ahead — the view alone books out fast.
4. Tasca do João (Faro)
Tasca do João is located in Faro and dishes out comfort food from the sea. Think stewed octopus, razor clams, or fried cuttlefish served with fries and zero pretense.
Address: Lgo do Pé da Cruz 27, 8100-154 Faro, Portugal
Average price: 20–25€
Tip: Go for lunch and pair it with a glass of vinho verde.
5. A Venda (Faro)
A nostalgic eatery that feels like your grandmother’s living room. A Venda serves up small plates with big personality — from pork cheeks to marinated carrots and local cheese boards.
Address: R. do Compromisso 60, 8000-078 Faro, Portugal
Average price: 20–25€
Tip: Sit outside on the quiet square and soak up the old-town charm.
6. Vila com Tradição (Vilamoura)
Vila com Tradição is a no-frills seaside spot that’s all about the grill. Sardines, sea bass, mackerel — whatever’s fresh — gets fire-kissed and served with boiled potatoes and salad. Pure summer on a plate.
Address: 57, R. da Alemanha 3 5.4, Vilamoura, 8125-443 Quarteira, Portugal
Average price: 15–25€
Tip: Sardines are best from June to August.
7. Casa do Campo (Almancil)
In a countryside setting surrounded by orange trees, Casa do Campo mixes old-school service with beautifully plated dishes. Expect refined takes on traditional fare in a romantic setting.
Address: R. do Comércio, 8135-608 Almancil, Portugal
Average price: 40–60€
Tip: Ideal for date night or a celebratory dinner.
8. Rei das Praias (Ferragudo)
A beachfront restaurant that does seafood with flair. Tucked into a cove near Praia dos Caneiros, Rei das Praias serves fish stews, grilled tiger prawns, and a legendary cataplana.
Address: Praia dos Caneiros, 8400-272 Ferragudo, Portugal
Average price: 40–50€
Tip: Book a table outside at sunset. You won’t regret it.
9. Restaurante Noélia (Cabanas de Tavira)
Beloved by chefs and locals alike, Noélia is known for her elegant seafood and bold flavours. Her rice dishes — especially with clams or cuttlefish ink — are the stuff of Algarve legend.
Address: Av. Ria Formosa 2, 8800-591 Cabanas, Portugal
Average price: 30–40€
Tip: Call to book. It fills up weeks in advance.
10. Restaurante Casa do Prego (Lagos)
Restaurante Casa do Prego is a lively rooftop spot in the heart of Lagos, known for its modern petiscos, juicy steaks, and vibrant cocktails. The vibe is young, the staff friendly, and the sunset views unforgettable.
Address: R. Lançarote de Freitas 18 1º Andar, 8600-605 Lagos, Portugal
Average price: 15–25€
Tip: Ask the owner for pairing tips — the wine game is strong.
Discover the Best of the Algarve with WhereInRio & Beyond
Whether you're tucking into grilled sardines in a coastal shack or sharing petiscos under the orange trees, the Algarve delivers unforgettable meals full of soul and sunshine.
And if you want to experience this region like a local, explore our handpicked collection of villas and holiday homes across the Algarve — from countryside escapes to beachfront properties. Your perfect getaway starts with the perfect base.
FAQ
1. What are the best local restaurants in Algarve for traditional Portuguese food?
For authentic flavours and no-fuss dishes, head to A Forja in Lagos, Tasca do João in Olhão, or Casa do Campo in Almancil. These spots serve traditional Algarve fare with heart — grilled meats, stews, and comfort food done right.
2. What are the most traditional dishes to try in the Algarve?
Start with cataplana de marisco (a seafood stew cooked in a copper pot), grilled sardines, arroz de polvo (octopus rice), and doce de dom rodrigo for dessert. Local flavours are fresh, simple, and often come straight from the sea.
3. Where can I eat the best fresh seafood in Algarve?
Try Marisqueira Rui in Silves for shellfish feasts, O Camilo in Lagos for cliffside grilled fish, or Rei das Praias for cataplana with a view. You’ll find top-quality seafood along the coast — often in the least flashy places.
4. Are there good restaurants in the Algarve that aren’t tourist traps?
Yes — and they’re usually packed with locals. Tasca do João, A Venda, and Taberna da Maré are great examples. Look for chalkboard menus, paper tablecloths, and zero social media presence. That’s when you know it’s the real deal.
5. Do I need to book restaurants in advance in the Algarve?
For popular spots like Noélia e Jerónimo or beachfront restaurants in summer, absolutely — some book out weeks ahead. Tascas and simpler eateries may not take reservations, so arriving early (or being patient) is key.