Top 5 Places to Eat in Lagos

Written by Celine Fournier, Finn Weber
02/09/2025
Coastal cave in Algarve, Portugal revealing a stunning view of the sea and cliffs.
A.S. Kacar, Pexels

Lagos offers a diverse and high-quality dining experience, ranging from traditional Portuguese seafood to modern international cuisine, appealing to various tastes and budgets.

1. Restaurante dos Artistas

Cuisine: Modern Portuguese and International Fine Dining

Nestled within a beautifully restored 18th-century building in Lagos' historic centre, this Michelin-recognized restaurant offers a refined dining experience. Guests can expect elegant colonial-inspired decor and exceptional service. The menu features modern Portuguese dishes with international influences, focusing on gourmet meat, fresh fish, and seafood, alongside vegetarian options. Signature dishes often include creative interpretations of local ingredients, such as sturgeon caviar or seared scallops with unique accompaniments. It's an ideal choice for a special occasion. Tasting menus are available and change bi-weekly.

Price: Preset menus range from €54.5 to €67.5 per guest (2025 data); individual starters €13.8 - €49.8, mains typically higher. (Approx. $60-$120+ USD per person)

Getting There: Located in the historic centre of Lagos on Rua Cândido dos Reis, it is easily accessible by walking from most central accommodations.

2. Casinha do Petisco

Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese Seafood

Known as a highly sought-after spot for authentic Portuguese cuisine, Casinha do Petisco is famous for its intimate, local charm and exceptional quality of fish and seafood. The cataplana, a rich seafood stew, is a must-try, as are their house prawns. Portions are notably generous, and the atmosphere is bustling, often with queues forming before opening. Reservations are strongly recommended, or arriving early to secure a table. This restaurant does not accept card payments, so remember to bring cash.

Price: Estimated €25-€45 per person, depending on dishes. (Approx. $27-$50 USD)

Getting There: Situated in the city centre, it's typically within walking distance from most accommodations.

3. Prato Cheio

Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese Home-Style Cuisine

Prato Cheio offers a genuine taste of Portuguese home cooking, frequented by both locals and visitors. The atmosphere is unpretentious and friendly, with a back patio for outdoor seating. They are particularly praised for their excellent fish cataplana, which features generous pieces of fish, prawns, and clams, as well as their seafood rice. Other options include various meat dishes for non-fish eaters. Reviewers consistently highlight the fresh ingredients and reasonable prices. Booking is recommended, especially on weekends.

Price: Main dishes typically range from €10-€20. (Approx. $11-$22 USD per person)

Getting There: Located outside the immediate tourist centre in a residential area, it is accessible by walking (around 15-20 minutes from the old town) or a short taxi ride.

4. Restaurante Atalaia – Volodymyr

Cuisine: Authentic Portuguese with Daily Set Menus

This unpretentious restaurant is a favorite among locals and expats, offering excellent value away from the main tourist hustle. It's known for its daily specials board, featuring a set menu that typically includes soup, a main course, dessert, and a drink at a very affordable price. Grilled fresh fish, especially sea bass, and various steak options are popular choices. The staff is friendly, and while it can get busy, especially at lunchtime, the quality and value remain high. They make their own bread rolls, which are highly recommended.

Price: Set menu prices typically range from €12.50 to €19.50. (Approx. $14-$22 USD per person for a multi-course meal)

Getting There: Located outside the old town, it is best reached by a short taxi ride or a longer walk (around 20-25 minutes) from the city centre. Parking is available nearby.

5. Pearl Food Trailer

Cuisine: Tasca-Style Seafood Tapas and Oysters

For a more casual and unique dining experience, Pearl Food Trailer is a small, tasca-style oyster bar known for its delicious tapas-style seafood dishes and vinho verde. It's an excellent spot for a light snack between meals or a relaxed evening. A must-try is their traditional Portuguese chorizo dish, cooked fresh with flames right at your table. This spot offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood in a laid-back setting. Remember, this is a cash-only establishment.

Price: Tapas dishes generally range from €5-€15. (Approx. $6-$17 USD per person for a light meal)

Getting There: Located with views of the marina, it is easily walkable from the main old town area and the marina itself.

Check out our other pages on Lagos

Things to Do icon Things to Do Getting There icon Getting There Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays