The Best Restaurants in Albufeira, Portugal

Push the sails out with a dinner outing at this one-of-a-kind restaurant, housed within a traditional windmill that dates from 1938. The eatery only has 12 tables so make a reservation beforehand – try to nab a window table if you can, as the views are worth a photo or two. In terms of food, there is a well-curated, three-course set menu that showcases seasonal ingredients.

Hidden away on a quiet street in the Old Town, this restaurant is a little gem worth investigating. A slick, minimalist aesthetic runs throughout, giving it an art gallery-like feel with the well-presented dishes serving as the masterpieces. The juicy steaks get top marks, along with the perfectly cooked scallops.

Feast on ocean views, tasty locally sourced produce and top wines at this modern bistro, which is located on Albufeira’s buzzing Strip. The suckling pig croquettes and tuna loin with lime risotto are among the house favourites. Wash it all down with a tipple from the extensive wine menu – the cocktails here are also top-notch.

Stop by for a slice or two at this popular pizzeria, which shouldn’t be mistaken for a branch of the Mexican-themed bar chain Senor Frog’s. This laidback venue, slap bang on the Strip in Albufeira, has been running since 1989 – more recently it’s added vegan and gluten-free options to the menu. The cheesy garlic bread is another must-try, along with the punchy sangria.

Get your fill of some of the freshest seafood in town at this relaxed restaurant, tucked away from the main strip. There’s a fantastic spread to choose from – if you can’t make your mind up, taste some of the best bits with one of the Instagram-worthy seafood platters. It’s not normally the standout dish, but the buttery bread here also gets high praise from customers.

Right on Peneco Beach, in the heart of historic Albufeira, this contemporary hotel is the perfect place to refuel and refresh. The Sunset Beach Club boasts prime views of the golden sands and glistening waters beyond. There’s an extensive range of snacks to choose from, with sandwiches and small sharing plates. If you’re looking for a refreshing beverage, the sangria here is a popular pick.

With a peaceful location and a spacious, sun-drenched terrace, this bright and breezy restaurant is the perfect place to recharge with some delicious bites. Recommended dishes include the bacalhau espiritual (“spiritual codfish”), the flavoursome prawn curry and juicy lamb chops. Owners Paula and Luis promise to give you a warm welcome – if you’re travelling with children, another perk of this place is its play area.

If you’re a fan of jazz and hearty food, this characterful, music-themed bistro in the newer part of town will hit the right note. Johnny, the owner, excels on the entertainment front – making for a great host with meet-and-greets followed by stints on his saxophone. If you’re looking for home comforts, you’re in luck, as the menu follows more of an English theme with items such as mushroom stroganoff and banoffee pie among the offerings.

For an intimate meal with good food at the heart of affairs, wind your way over to this top-rated Old Town eatery. There are a few tables outside, which are snapped up quickly on a sunny day. Inside, sand-hued interiors and strips of exposed-stone wall help to create a cosy ambience. There’s a smorgasbord of different dishes to choose from, with the chefs working from locally sourced produce. Favourites include the duck magret and monkfish medallions with shrimps. Save a little room for something sweet, as the homemade desserts are delicious.

Taking its name from a Portuguese food brand, this trendy restaurant has gained a following with its tasty tapas and picturesque roof terrace overlooking the Old Town’s main square. Work your way through the menu, grazing on house favourites such as veal carpaccio, truffle-infused mushroom risotto and Portuguese cheeses. This place scores extra points for its gluten-free and vegan offerings.