Hidden Gems in the Algarve

Hidden gems in the Algarve: restaurant edition

Updated for 2026

Small, lesser-known places worth seeking out, updated as I find them.

I'm not a restaurant reviewer, but I love giving recommendations and trying new places. Funnily enough, at home I eat almost the exact same thing every day — maybe that's exactly why I love going out for food.

This is the start of a running list, and I'll keep adding to it. The focus is on the smaller, lesser-known spots — the ones you might walk straight past without knowing what you're missing.

Loulé

Oliwander's

A rooftop restaurant serving contemporary Mediterranean food, built around lots of light tapas-style dishes. The views over Loulé's castle and rooftops are what make it feel magical — helped along by a playful, subtle Harry Potter theme running through the décor and menu. Dinner only.

11 da Villa

Another tapas-style restaurant, though with more generous portions. Beautiful exposed-brick interiors and a relaxed, easy setting.

Monte Seco

Tasca da Luz

Open mainly for dinner during the week and lunch on weekends. Beautiful modern interiors, with a menu spanning pizza alongside meat and fish dishes.

Almancil

Restaurante Taberna by Lúcia

On one of Almancil's main streets — easy to walk straight past without realising what's inside. Lúcia serves an array of local Algarvian dishes and snacks, and this is genuinely a must if you want to eat like a local. Open for lunch and dinner.

PRATO FEIO

Literally hidden spots. It has a small sign and I only came across it from a friend after living here for 4 years already. But don’t worry, it’s busy. Family run, local produce, menu changes daily. Lunch only.

Vale de Éguas

Restaurante Malveiro

A family-run restaurant with a long history and loyal regulars who keep coming back, especially for the fish curry. Simple, and very, very good.

Faro

Los Locos

Tucked down one of Faro's quiet alleyways, this hidden spot is dinner-only, with a small, ever-changing menu built around fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. The setting is casual but the food is genuinely inventive — think unexpected combinations rather than straightforward Portuguese classics.

ATO

Another dinner favourite. Modern cuisine built around local produce and fish — hipster and cool, without trying too hard.

Olhão

Chá Chá Chá

Mediterranean-style food with a mix of meats and seafood. Open for lunch and dinner, with tables spilling out onto the Portuguese calçada outside.

Quarteira

Social

A wine bar serving tapas and small plates. This is one of the places locals actually go — friendly, affordable, and consistently good.