Eat your way through the Algarve this summer /

In a major new survey conducted by American Express on Global Travel Trends, 81% of participants said trying local cuisine is the part of travel they most look forward to and 75% are most interested in eating at local restaurants during their travels. the travelling. With that in mind, the Algarve Tourist Board has put together a list of the best places to try the region’s various culinary specialties.

The Algarve is a foodie’s paradise, with a rich culinary heritage influenced by the long Atlantic coastline, Moorish heritage and sunny climate leading to a healthy Mediterranean diet of superb fish, shellfish, fruit and vegetables. Fresh daily catches feature on most menus and often include clams, clams, oysters, squid, sea bass, sea bream, mackerel or sardines.

For those looking for fine dining, the Algarve has the most Michelin star restaurants in all of Portugal – eight in total. And a few of them – Ocean at Vila Parc Resort and Vila Joya each have two Michelin stars.

For visitors who want an authentic and local experience, here is a list of the best places to eat some of the regional specialties. Prepare for an enticing journey as you make your way through the Algarve.

Cataplana

The Algarve’s signature dish takes its name from the traditional copper pot in which it is cooked. The shell-shaped shell helps seal in the flavors and aromas of the fresh seafood, fragrant herbs, tomatoes, onions and garlic. To taste this true taste of the Algarve, head to O Patio in Carvoeiro, who have spent the last 59 years perfecting the art of preparing the dish.

Oysters

Embark on a short boat ride to Estamin, a secret treasure of a restaurant with 360° views over the Ria Formosa and the Atlantic Ocean known only to locals. It is located on a picturesque, uninhabited island just off the coast of Faro. The restaurant prides itself on its commitment to sustainability, using solar energy to power its entire infrastructure and their own drinking water production plant.

Octopus

This charming traditional Tertulia Algarvia restaurant is located in the cobbled old town of Faro and they have a selection of dishes that showcase the diversity of octopus. Creations include Octopus Tentacles with Sweet Potatoes and Baked Vegetables and Octopus Cataplana with Sweet Potato and Clams, a twist on the classic Algarve dish.

fresh fish

In the breathtaking surroundings of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, right on the beach of Praia do Ancão, is 2 Passos – a culinary establishment of more than 30 years and a Michelin recommended restaurant. 2 Passos has become the ultimate place for the freshest fish such as sea bass, cod and mackerel in a nature-inspired setting.

Sardines

Sardines from the Algarve are a culinary treasure and should not be missed. To celebrate their unique taste and delicate texture, the sardines are typically grilled with no additional flavors and served with ‘montaneira’ – a salad of tomato, cucumber, onion, roasted green and red pepper with oregano and bread. À-do-João on the island of Farol, just off the coast of Faro, is worth the short boat ride to get there for the best sardines in the Algarve.

Chicken Piri Piri

This iconic dish is a must when visiting the Algarve. Juicy chicken marinated in spicy piri piri sauce, made from a mix of chili peppers, garlic, herbs and citrus. Grilled over hot charcoal until the skin crisps up and the flavors of the sauce mixture come out better. A chicken piri piri restaurant in Guia, Ramires restaurant is the place to go for the original recipe that has earned Guia the title of “Barbecue Chicken Capital of Portugal”.

Petiscos

For the best accompaniment to a nice cold beer or glass of wine, try petiscos, Portuguese tapas, at Paixa. This eclectic, contemporary and sophisticated venue provides the perfect space for late night drinks and snacks with a group of friends. Dishes to try include duck foie gras, Iberian ham, stuffed squid and oxtail croquette.

wine and beer

Did you know that Portugal is one of the 11 largest beer producers in Europe? Try some of the best beers at Algarve Rock Brewery, located outside Faro. It is a state-of-the-art brewing facility that produces a variety of all-natural and flavorful craft beers.

Algarve wines have improved greatly in recent years. Visit these top wineries in the Algarve for an exceptional wine tasting experience and a chance to try the best wines. Morgado do Quintão, Quinta dos Vales and Barranco Longo offer unforgettable wine-focused experiences, including wine tastings, opportunities to create personalized wines and exquisite meals with wine pairings.

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eat festivals

Food festivals are a great alternative way to try out local produce and the region hosts a plethora of them throughout the year, each focusing on different foods.

In July, Monchique hosts the ‘Feira do Presunto’ festival, showcasing the locally produced smoked ham.

The Sardine Festival is held annually in August along the waterfront in Portimão. Visitors can enjoy freshly prepared sardines and live Portuguese music while enjoying the festivities, which attract an average of 20,000 visitors per day. The festival’s well-deserved reputation has led to it being shortlisted locally for ‘Event of the Year’.

Likewise, the Olhão Seafood Festival, also held annually in August, is the perfect place to enjoy the freshest seafood, from shrimp and oysters to seafood cataplanas and rice dishes. Live music, including Portuguese pop, rock and fado music, adds to the lively atmosphere of this event.

For more information on the Algarve, visit www.visitalgarve.pt