April events, Michelin Guide 2026 highlights and a year-long gastronomic journey

Dining experience with edible art

Quinta do Lago will host a unique culinary experience from April 8 to 10, led by renowned Dutch master chef Angélique Schmeinck.

Across three evenings at Casa Velha, Casa do Lago and Umami, the chef will create live edible artworks alongside each restaurant’s resident chef, transforming ingredients into visual and culinary compositions before guests.

These creations will inspire exclusive tasting menus crafted for the occasion, each paired with wines and reflecting different culinary themes.

Algarve gains new Michelin star

The Algarve has strengthened its reputation as a leading gastronomic destination after gaining a new Michelin star in the Michelin Guide Portugal 2026, bringing the region’s total to seven starred restaurants.

The new distinction was awarded to Alameda, led by chef Rui Sequeira, recognised for its contemporary cuisine that highlights local ingredients and seasonal produce.

Pin

The region is now home to two two-star restaurants (Vila Joya and Ocean) and five one-star establishments (Gusto by Heinz Beck in Almancil, Bon Bon in Lagoa, Vista in Portimão, A Ver Tavira in Tavira, and now Alameda in Faro).

Seven other Algarve restaurants were also added to the Guide’s Recommended list – Coral (Porches), Austa (Almancil), Authentic (Almancil), Duoo Gastro Theatre (Portimão), CaféZïque (Loulé), Mesa Farta (Tavira), and Pearl (Faro).

Regional flavours take centre stage at Adega

Adega restaurant, at Vila Vita Parc, Porches, will present in 2026 a new edition of its gastronomic journey ‘Territórios de Portugal’, an initiative celebrating the diversity of Portuguese regional cuisine.

Pin

Throughout the year, different regions of the country will be highlighted for extended periods, with menus created by chef Alexandre Cabral featuring emblematic dishes, traditional desserts and wines.

The journey began with Trás-os-Montes and will continue through the Beiras, Alentejo, Lisbon, Algarve, Bairrada and Minho regions, also welcoming guest chefs, wine producers and moments of live traditional music.

___

Follow Essential Algarve Magazine on Instagram, Facebook, X or Linkedin for more news!