Great dining experiences in Lagos await you thanks to the town’s thriving food scene that takes full advantage of the Algarve’s natural resources. Often overlooked as a European foodie destination, Lagos treats its visitors to authentic Portuguese cuisine combined with international recipes. The town’s scenic location on the shores of the Atlantic makes it one of Portugal’s top places for succulent seafood. You’ll also find tapas, burgers, fresh salads and more at some of its renowned eateries.

Every restaurant uses their culinary expertise to provide each customer with a unique gastronomic experience while many complement their menus with friendly service, delightful ambience and affordable prices. While there are endless quality choices, we've narrowed down our favorite dining experiences in Lagos.

  • 1

    Take a Lagos food tour

    Join a local food expert and try classic Portuguese dishes

    Take a Lagos food tour
    • Food

    Taking a Lagos food tour is one of the best ways to start your Algarve vacation, especially if you’re a foodie. Team up with a local guide and get the rundown on all the favorite restaurants and taverns in town. Sample upwards of 10 delicious Portuguese dishes and pair each one with refreshing local drinks. Guides will explain all the ingredients and methods used to craft each dish.

    Taste signature dishes like polenta and cod with chickpeas, or delectable petiscos – similar to tapas in Spain. Many food tours showcase the versatility of Portuguese cuisine, and selections include seafood, meat dishes, cheeses, and vegetarian options. Save room for dessert since there will be plenty of traditional Portuguese sweets to try.

  • 2

    Explore Rua da Oliveira

    Lined with eateries serving Portuguese and international cuisine

    Explore Rua da Oliveira
    • Food

    A stroll down Rua da Oliveira will treat you to a superb selection of highly-rated eateries in Lagos. This narrow street takes you to Portugal and beyond with international cuisines from regions all over the globe. Have Mexican food at The Green Room - Burritos & Cocktails or have Belgian beers at la Esterella. Estúdio Vegetariano has excellent vegan choices and offers guests a cozy atmosphere.

    You certainly won’t go wrong sticking with Portuguese cuisine and Rua da Oliveira is one of the best places for Algarve delights. Patrons of Casinha do Petisco rave about the cataplana and Restaurante Bar Inna is a hidden gem where you get top-notch value for your money.

    Location: Rua da Oliveira, 8600-700 Lagos, Portugal

    Map
  • 3

    O Camilo

    Affordable seafood with picturesque views of Praia do Camilo

    O Camilo
    • Food

    O Camilo crafts dishes from fresh fish and produce and treats guests to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Lagos. Built with sleek, modern architectural design, the restaurant overlooks the limestone cliffs and sea pillars of Praia do Camilo. The makeover didn’t change the staff’s commitment to serving traditional Algarve cuisine.

    Seafood lovers are in for a personal treat with the extensive variety of fish caught from local waters. Mackerels, swordfish and sardines are among your choices, but you’ll find more in the daily selection. Fried shrimp, fish stew, gold bream, tiger prawns and oysters are other popular menu items. Book your spot here in advance (by phone) since the restaurant can get extremely busy.

    Location: Estr. da Ponta da Piedade, 8600-544 Lagos, Portugal

    Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 11 am to midnight (closed on Mondays). Closed November 4–27

    Phone: +351 282 763 845

    Map
  • 4

    Casa do Prego

    Delicious tapas and Portuguese-style steaks

    • Food

    Casa do Prego is a family-owned business in Lagos that masterfully blends classic Portuguese cuisine with contemporary flair. The youthful staff are fearless with their creations and quickly gained a following among locals and visitors. Patrons are greeted with exceptional service and wait times become non-existent with a complimentary drink on the rooftop terrace. Though the restaurant doesn’t take bookings, the wait on the terrace is a delightful intro to the cozy atmosphere.

    The tuna steak is a showstopper but there are plenty of vegetarian plates to suit your taste buds. Entrees are seasoned with exquisite flavors and served with a side of crispy chips and salad. A must-try is the green sangria, which serves as a cooling refresher during scorching summer days.

    Location: R. Lançarote de Freitas 18, 8600-605 Lagos, Portugal

    Open: Daily from noon to 10 pm

    Phone: +351 913 505 038

    Map
  • 5

    Restaurante dos Artistas

    For romantic fine dining in Lagos

    • Couples
    • Food
    • Luxury

    Restaurante dos Artistas is situated in the historical center of Lagos and is a popular place to celebrate special occasions. The restaurant is renowned for its 5-star service and elegant décor to set a romantic mood for couples. Chefs utilize international and locally sourced ingredients to craft exceptional meat, seafood and vegetarian plates.

    You can select from the a la carte menu with a single set option during lunch, and larger menus become available at dinner. The largest menus come with 5 courses and can be paired with a variety of white, rosé, red and green wines. It’s one of Lagos’ most exclusive – bookings are completed online, and your reservation is only confirmed when the restaurant contacts you.

    Location: R. Cândido dos Reis 68, 8600-681 Lagos, Portugal

    Open: Monday–Saturday from noon to 2 pm and from 6.30 pm to 10 pm (closed on Sundays)

    Phone: +351 282 760 659

    Map
Daniel Grenier | Contributing Writer