What’s new in Algarve dining

Photo: Verdelago Resort

Top restaurants, tasting menus and chefs redefining local dining

Vino at W Algarve unveils new menu

The Vino restaurant at W Algarve, in Albufeira, has introduced a new four- and six-course tasting menu, with optional wine pairing, alongside new additions to its à la carte offering.

With an emphasis on seasonality and comforting flavours, served in a warm yet refined setting, chef Andrea Ciuccio presents treats such as Ria Formosa oysters, chestnut cream with buttery cheese and Portuguese sausage, seafood tartare with local orange jelly and truffle roe, and traditional pastel de bacalhau (salt cod fritter).

À la carte highlights include Cantabrian anchovies or a selection of cheeses, charcuterie and preserves, and the pistachio and white chocolate fondant to finish.

Vino is open from Thursday to Monday for dinner only, and reservations are recommended.

Ocean tops ‘Best in Portugal’ ranking by La Liste

The prestigious La Liste, one of the world’s most selective gastronomic guides, has released its 2026 global ranking.

Among the 1,000 restaurants featured, Ocean, located at the Vila Vita Parc resort in Porches, secured the top position in Portugal, with a score of 96.5 points.

With two Michelin stars and led by chef Hans Neuner, Ocean once again sees its excellence recognised.

Also placing in Portugal’s Top 5 is fellow Algarve restaurant Vila Joya, in Albufeira, under the direction of chef Dieter Koschina. This year, the number of Portuguese restaurants included in the list rose from ten to 17.

Chocolate-making workshop

Chef Jean-Michel, head pastry chef at Viceroy at Ombria Algarve, leads the “Chocolate Making Workshop” at Café Central.

Available upon request and subject to availability, the workshop explores chocolate-making techniques and secrets, with a focus on local ingredients.

Chocolate-making workshop at Viceroy at Ombria Algarve

Participants will learn how to temper and mould chocolate, and will have the chance to create and take home their own personalised chocolate bar.

The session lasts around 45 minutes and costs €75 per person.

Chef Louis Anjos joins Verdelago Resort

Portuguese chef Louis Anjos has been appointed head of gastronomy at Verdelago Resort, in Praia Verde, Castro Marim, marking a clear move to place food at the heart of the project.

Chef Louis Anjos

Regarded as one of the most consistent chefs of his generation, Anjos brings a strong Michelin background, having helped retain the star at Bon Bon (Carvoeiro), before earning and maintaining his own at Al Sud (Palmares, near Lagos).

His role will focus on developing a coherent and sustainable gastronomic identity, rooted in local produce and community ties, and extending beyond fine dining to shape the overall resort experience.

The resort believes the appointment will also strengthen the culinary profile and economy of the eastern Algarve.