Faro Restaurants and Dining

(Faro, Algarve, Portugal)

The cuisine of Portugal is defined by is rich flavours and clear Mediterranean influences, and visitors will find that restaurants in Faro used fresh herbs, olive oil and garlic as the basis for many a meal. Being located right next to the coast, seafood is always popular in Faro and those dining out will find everything from grilled sardines (sardinhas assadas) and tuna, to cuttlefish, lobster, octopus, shrimps, shellfish stew (arroz de mariscos) and even giant barnacles. In particular, dried, salted cod (bacalhau) is often a speciality.

If seafood is not really your thing, then there is no need for concern, since Faro's restaurants also usually prepare many meat and poultry dishes. Most dining venues and eateries in the city serve fried beef or pork steaks (bifes), barbecued chicken (no churrasco) and tripe (tripas), the latter of which tends to incorporate spices and beans. And if you fancy a spot of 'surf and turf', then Faro's version comes in the form of pork and clams (porco a alentejana).

Where to Eat

The very heart of Faro is based around the pedestrianised shopping district on the Rua de Santo Antonio and it is here that you will encounter the best selection of restaurants, cafes and bars.

This part of the city is also a good place to find a number of reliable bakeries, which are usually filled with almond delicacies (a regional speciality).


Many of the dining establishments lining the Rua de Santo Antonio feature similar restaurant menus and prices, and there is often little to choose between them.

However, for better value and a more authentic character, look to Faro's nearby back streets, where the local street life is an added attraction.