Portugal has never looked so good! The food’s great, the sun shines, and flights to the Algarve are surprisingly affordable.
Often overlooked by many visitors, Portugal’s historic capital of Faro is often bypassed in favour of the seaside resorts such as Alvor and Lagos. This jovial and charming medieval town is home to jaw-dropping architecture, cultural gems and a breathtaking coastline, not to mention the affordable (but world-class) restaurants that serve up fresh seafood and Portuguese specialties.
Here are five of the top places to eat in Portugals’ foodie nirvana of Faro.
1. Restaurante Ria Formosa
Taking its name from the spectacular natural park Rio Formosa, this hidden gem is nestled within the Hotel Faro. Positioned on the fourth floor, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Old Town as well as the nearby lagoon. An expert team of chefs serve up contemporary dishes and showcase the region’s best local produce. The salted cod risotto is a must-try and the steak cooked on a hot stone is guaranteed to impress.
Address: Praça D Francisco Gomes Nº2, 4º Andar, 8000-168 Faro, Portugal
2. Aqui Del Rei
Few restaurants in Faro have the old world charm of this family run establishment. Situated next to the imposing archway, Arco De Repouso, this restaurant serves up the best of Angola cuisine. A country with colonial ties, this is your opportunity to indulge in a tasty fusion of Mediterranean and West African cuisine. Be sure to visit on a Sunday when the restaurant plays host to live folk music, otherwise known as fado.
Address: R. do Repouso 6, Faro, Portugal
3. Republica
Join the locals at Republica and you’ll enjoy a true taste of the region. The restaurant is only small but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in flavor. Favourites include the duck stuffed tartlets and the hearty Caldeirada stew, which contains fish, mussels, shrimp and potatoes. This secluded spot only serves 24 diners, so book in advance to sample a home-cooked style meal at this exceptional restaurant.
Address: Av. da República 40, 8000 Faro, Portugal
4. Dois Irmaos
No trip to Faro would be complete without a meal at the town’s oldest restaurant. Founded in 1925, this small wine bar and adjoining eatery has changed very little over the years, allowing visitors to enjoy an enticing mix of wine and simple delicacies. The steamed clams are highly recommended as well as the boiled mackerel and grilled fish of the day — it’s a seafood extravaganza.
Address: Praça Ferreira de Almeida 15, 8000-156 Faro, Portugal
5. Belle Epoque
Renowned for its flame-grilled Argentine beef, this is arguably Faro’s best steak restaurant. Overlooked by many tourists, the restaurant sits in an unassuming building in the heart of downtown Faro. Don’t be fooled by the pleasantly understated interior. The food is lovingly prepared and the staff have quickly gained recognition for their outstanding service and hospitality.
Address: Av. da República 88, 8000-079 Faro, Portugal
If you’ve ever visited the authentic restaurants of Faro, it would be nice to hear your thoughts. Maybe you can recommend a few more great restaurants in Faro? Feel free to drop a line in the comments box and tell us all about it!
Want to have the perfect dinner, with typical portuguese seafood?
Try Restaurante Faz Gostos, the only Michelin Guide in the Algarve’s capital.
See more at: facebook.com/fazgostosfaro