A guide to the best restaurants in Albufeira

It’s hard to imagine that, not so long ago, Albufeira was a Portuguese fishing village like so many others. Today, the rise in cheap holidays to Albufeira make it one of the most active tourist destinations in the Algarve, and one element of its charm that really shines is its cuisine. Restaurants of all shapes and sizes line Albufeira’s sunny streets, so you can expect everything from beachfront diners to plush restaurants. If you’re spoilt for choice, take a look at some of our top picks for a few ideas to get you started.

Tackle a five course feast at Dom Carlos Restaurante

Tucked away in Albufeira’s old town, the unmistakable Mediterranean look of this plush place on a hilltop corner is as charming as it is inviting. A lot of admiration has been given to the restaurant’s value, where a five course dinner can be yours for 45 euros.

Celebrate vegetarian dining at Eurasia

Those of us who shy away from eating meat often have a hard time finding somewhere pleasing to our palates, but not at Eurasia. It takes its cues from Europe and Asia in providing a buffet menu packed with, mainly vegetarian, enticing fusion food. They also serve one meat and one fish dish daily if you’re bringing a non-veggie with you.

Eat hearty home-cooked classics at Restaurante Tres Palmeiras

Grilled meats, sumptuous stews and classic Iberian rice dishes all form part of the menu at this family-run establishment. There’s a children’s menu to keep the little ones satisfied, along with vegan and vegetarian options, warm surroundings and inviting hospitality.

Enjoy true exclusivity at Vila Joya

You might be surprised to learn that a holiday to Albufeira can get you to one of the world’s most renowned restaurants. Vila Joya is an upmarket venue that frequently features the culinary talents of some of Europe’s most talented chefs. That means booking ahead for a table here is going to guarantee you a restaurant experience you simply don’t get every day.

Savour the skyline at Castelo do Mar

High on the hill above Albufeira is Castelo do Mar, which in and of itself is a masterpiece of old world architectural design. Fresh food, diligently prepared to Portuguese traditional standards, makes mealtimes here a treat to truly treasure.

Experience the legendary wine cellar of Restaurante Veneza

Deep below this stunning venue is a wine cellar that is said to hold over a thousand different bottles of vintage tipples, together with some truly exquisite champagnes and spirits. Meals here are also truly sublime, boasting the best in south Portuguese flavours and hospitality.

Dine on the terrace at O Marinheiro

Sleek and modern, but still packed with personality, O Marinheiro mixes vegetarian delights with tasty chicken, beef and fish dishes, all to excellent effect. It’s a venue that welcomes plenty of families every day, especially thanks to the children’s playground just outside the venue.

Favour the foie gras at Alquimia

High class dining that’s accessible to all is very much the order of the day here, so if the locally-famous lobster and foie gras are a little more la-di-da than you’d like, satisfy yourself with grilled fish, smoked steak and succulent poultry.

Savour steak at Restaurante Palacete

Warm decor and broad smiles welcome you to your table here, where you can enjoy some of the best steaks in town, together with plenty in the way of seafood and salads for those in the mood. With snappy service and smart presentation throughout, Restaurante Palacete reinforces its solid reputation night after night.

Find your new home from home at O Lusitano

Eating on a budget doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the good stuff, and O Lusitano is proof. It’s a little way out of the centre of Albufeira, lending it a secluded feel that few other restaurants in town can match, while its menu and service are both regarded as among the best in town.