Food Lover’s Guide to Lagos: Best Local Dishes to Try Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

Food Lover’s Guide to Lagos: Best Local Dishes to Try

Lagos, Portugal, is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese flavors, and rich culinary heritage. From grilled sardines to flavorful stews, the town’s cuisine reflects its coastal charm. If you’re visiting Lagos, here are the must-try dishes that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Grilled Sardines – A True Algarve Classic

Grilled sardines are a staple of Algarve cuisine and a must-try in Lagos. Typically served with boiled potatoes, salad, and bread, these fresh sardines are seasoned with sea salt and grilled to perfection. The best place to enjoy them is at a local seafood restaurant or during the annual Sardine Festival.

2. Cataplana de Marisco – A Seafood Delight

Cataplana de Marisco is a famous Algarve seafood dish cooked in a traditional copper pot. Made with fresh clams, shrimp, fish, and aromatic spices, this flavorful stew is served with rice or crusty bread. The cataplana method locks in all the delicious flavors, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

3. Arroz de Marisco – Portuguese Seafood Rice

Similar to a seafood paella, Arroz de Marisco is a rich and savory dish packed with shrimp, mussels, clams, and fresh fish. Cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish bursts with ocean flavors. It’s best enjoyed at a waterfront restaurant with a glass of crisp white wine.

4. Polvo à Lagareiro – Tender Octopus Perfection

For a unique taste of Lagos, try Polvo à Lagareiro. This dish features slow-roasted octopus drizzled with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, served with crispy potatoes. The octopus is incredibly tender and flavorful, making it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for an authentic Portuguese meal.

5. Dom Rodrigo – A Sweet Algarve Treat

No meal in Lagos is complete without trying Dom Rodrigo, a traditional Algarve dessert. Made with egg yolks, sugar, almonds, and cinnamon, this sweet treat is wrapped in colorful foil and often enjoyed with coffee or port wine. It’s the perfect way to end a delicious meal in Lagos.