The Algarve Food and Drink Scene

Along with more than 200km of beautiful coastline, spiralling cliffs, sandy beaches and quaint colourful islands, the Algarve food and drink scene is something else! It comes as no shock to find that fish and seafood are a principal part of the diet for the locals. Daily, the fishermen convey large amounts of super fresh fish such as; tuna, cod, bream and monkfish. There is always an abundance of oysters, clams, prawns, squid, sardines and even octopus!

The Algarve Food and Drink Scene

Traditionally, the local restaurants have a really good array of fish dishes, served with rice, potatoes or a mixed salad. Meat dishes, such as pork fillets with a creamed mushroom sauce and chicken Piri-Piri are very popular and served at realistic prices.

As well as traditional local cuisine, the Algarve of course, offers various food from all over the world. Chinese, Cantonese, Indian, Italian and English are the most popular selections. You will also see Mixed tapas, Mexican, Thai and Vegetarian dishes. The restaurants have much improved and now offer a good selection of vegetarian meals. In the main touristy areas, you will see plenty of Mediterranean restaurant choices. However, the more old-style towns and villages will favour the local Portuguese dishes.

If you are watching the pennies - the food is pretty dam good and the portions are very substantial. House wine (the local Portuguese wine) is also extremely well priced and very drinkable! Basically, a standard two-course meal for two people including a decent bottle of house wine, will set you back less than €25! Understandably the prices will vary extremely depending on what town or village you are visiting.

If you are staying in or around the coastal city of Albufeira and fancy venturing up to the hills above? Then, visit the small town of Guia, you will find rows of stunning green climbing vines belonging to the local vineyards and wineries. The area boasts stunning views of the adjoining countryside and coastline. Ensure you book a private guided tour of the vines and large cellars, and do not forget to purchase one or two bottles of the locally renowned Vida Nova wine.
If you are visiting the area of Lagos – have a good wander around the quaint twisting streets, rest your weary feet and enjoy the traditional - Petiscos de Taberna. The dishes are rather like the Spanish tapas, and are so enjoyable served with a cold pint of the locally brew.

Drinks in the Algarve

The prices of drinks in all the bars and restaurants can be ridiculously cheap, with a glass of wine costing only €2. Spirits (large measures) are approximately €3, with small draft beers around €1.50. If you are an avid beer drinker - the three general brands are Sagres, Super Bock and Cristal.

After enjoying a delicious evening meal, you just might like to try a glass of port, which is of course, Portugal’s most prominent drink. It is produced from a range of wines, and can be purchased as a Ruby - a full-bodied sweet port, Tawny - a distinctive light port (served very chilled) or White - served with ice.

Find your perfect restaurant on The Algarve with tabl.com. Soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy a wonderful meal and drinks, all the better ‘al fresco’. We outline an unbelievable selection of amazing restaurants!