*Note: This list reflects our personal recommendations at the time of writing. There are many other excellent restaurants in Lagos, and we encourage visitors to explore as many as they can.
If there's one question we hear almost every day at PIE, it's:
"Where else should we eat while we're in Lagos?"
As restaurant owners, we love that question.
Lagos has an incredible food scene, and we're fortunate to be surrounded by talented chefs, passionate restaurant owners and fantastic independent businesses. While we'd obviously love you to visit us during your stay, we also believe great restaurants support one another, and we're always happy to recommend places that we genuinely enjoy ourselves.
Whether you're looking for fresh seafood, authentic Portuguese cooking, modern dining or homemade comfort food, these are some of our favourite restaurants in Lagos, Portugal.
PIE LAGOS: Best for CREATIVE COMFORT Food, Craft Beer & Cocktails
Well, we couldn't leave ourselves off the list!
PIE is an independent restaurant in the heart of Lagos, just a short walk from the marina and the historic old town. We're best known for our unique Build Your Own Pie experience, where guests can choose their filling, topping and sides to create their perfect meal.
But we're much more than just pies.
Our menu also includes gourmet burgers, slow-cooked ribs, fresh seafood, vegetarian and vegan dishes, homemade desserts and seasonal specials. Pair your meal with one of our Portuguese craft beers, a creative cocktail or a glass of wine, and you'll soon see why so many of our guests return every time they visit Lagos.
Whether you're joining us for lunch, dinner, quiz night or simply drinks with friends, we'd love to welcome you.
Our favourite dishes: Chicken Piri Piri, BBQ Ribs, Blueberry pie!
Why visit?
Outstanding food & regularly changing specials
Portuguese craft beer
Creative cocktails
Vegetarian & vegan options
Dog-friendly terrace
Family friendly
Live sports and regular events
BUTEO: Best for Modern Dining
If you're looking for something contemporary, Búteo is a fantastic choice. Fabulous people, and fabulous food.
Their menu focuses on creative cooking with beautifully presented dishes and carefully balanced flavours. It's an excellent option for couples, food lovers and anyone looking for a memorable evening in Lagos.
The atmosphere is relaxed without feeling formal, making it one of our favourite recommendations for a special meal.
Our favourite dishes: Fish cakes, Sirloin Steak
Check out their Instagram here!
CANTINHO ALGARVIO: Best for Traditional Portuguese Cuisine
For visitors wanting an authentic taste of Portugal, Cantinho Algarvio has been welcoming guests for decades. We love it here. There’s plenty of options on the menu for everyone, and we’ve loved every meal here.
Traditional Portuguese recipes, generous portions and a warm atmosphere make it one of Lagos' best-loved local restaurants. From fresh fish and seafood to regional meat dishes, it's a great place to experience classic Algarve cooking.
If someone asks us where to enjoy authentic Portuguese food, this is always high on our list.
Our favourite dishes: Chicken & Bacon Kebab, Lamb with Garlic
Check out their website here!
O mexilhão: Best for Seafood
Portugal is famous for its seafood, and O Mexilhão is a wonderful place to enjoy it.
Known for fresh fish, shellfish and classic Portuguese seafood dishes, it's an excellent choice if you're craving flavours from the Atlantic.
The relaxed atmosphere and consistently good food have made this one of our most regularly visited spots!
Our favourite dishes: Mussels (obviously) and their Couvert!
Check them out on TripAdvisor here!
MULLENS: Best FOR COZY Dining & SATURDAY OPEN MIC NIGHTS
Mullens has built a loyal following thanks to its varied menu and welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, dinner with friends or somewhere to enjoy a drink, it's a dependable choice with something for almost everyone.
Its central location also makes it an easy recommendation while exploring Lagos.
Our favourite dishes: Chicken Pesto, Beef Mozambique
Check them out on TripAdvisor here!
Arribalé: Best for Charcoal-Grilled Fish & Meat
Tucked away in Lagos' historic old town, Arribalé has built a loyal following thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, friendly service (Thanks Ken!) and perfectly cooked fresh fish and grilled meats.
Whether you choose the catch of the day, succulent lamb chops or one of their expertly grilled meat dishes, it's easy to see why so many visitors return year after year.
Our favourite dishes: Mixed Grill, Fish of the Day!
Check them out on TripAdvisor here!
Why We Love the Food Scene in Lagos
One of the best things about Lagos is the variety.
Within just a few minutes' walk you can enjoy traditional Portuguese cooking, fresh seafood, modern European cuisine, homemade comfort food, craft beer, cocktails and much more.
That's one of the reasons so many visitors return year after year—not just for the beaches, but for the incredible choice of independent restaurants.
We're proud to be part of that community.
Planning Your Visit to Lagos?
If you're visiting the Algarve for the first time, we've also created a guide to some of our favourite things to do while you're here.
Whether you're looking for beautiful beaches, boat trips, family activities or local experiences, our guide will help you make the most of your stay.
Read our guide: /what-to-do-in-lagos
We Hope to See You Soon
Every restaurant on this list offers something a little different, and that's exactly what makes Lagos such a fantastic place to eat.
Whether you're searching for the best restaurant in Lagos, traditional Portuguese cuisine, fresh seafood, modern dining or homemade comfort food, we hope these recommendations help you enjoy everything our wonderful town has to offer.
And if you decide to visit PIE while you're here, we'd be delighted to welcome you.
Happy eating!