Albufeira Restaurants and Dining

(Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal)

Along with relaxing on a deck chair at the beach, dining out is one of the simple pleasures of Albufeira. Visitors have their pick of a host of international eateries, while seafood reigns supreme, being best enjoyed in restaurants near Fisherman's Beach (Praia dos Pescadores).

Albufeira is one of the top places for dining out in the entire Algarve region, with more international options than any of its neighbours. The strong base of expatriates living here means that you will find plenty of restaurants serving English breakfasts and continental fare, but you will also find an eclectic mix of Asian (especially Indian) cuisines.

What to Eat, and Where

The best place to find a restaurant in Albufeira is on the Strip, which joins the Montechoro district to the beach. This commercial drag is busy at all hours, and has everything from laid-back cafés to fine dining on hand. One of the most popular restaurants on the Strip is Anabelle's, known for its pub fare, fish and chips, and homemade pies. The best spread of Indian restaurants is to be found within the Old Town, headlined by Minar Indian Restaurant.

Of course, seafood lovers are in good hands. Take a seat at a café near Albufeira Marina and you will see fishermen hoisting in the day's catch. Atlantic fish feed the entire Algarve region, and tourists have their pick of some of the freshest seafood on the Iberian Peninsula. Expect to see plenty of flounder, sea bass, lobster and prawns on local dining menus.

For the best seafood in Albufeira, check out Os Azeiteros, appropriately located on Fisherman's Beach. One of the most popular local dishes is 'caldeirada', a stew of fresh fish, peppers, parsley and potatoes - usually served in a traditional clay pot, which keeps it piping hot. As far as land-based fare is concerned, peri-peri barbecued chicken is served in restaurants all over the city. If you are just looking for somewhere to enjoy a drink, then check out the bars around the Largo Engenheiro Duarte Pacheco and along the Rua Candido dos Reis.