In a major new survey carried out by American Express on Global Travel Trends 81% of participants said that trying the local cuisine is the part of travel they look forward to the most and 75% are most interested in eating at local restaurants when travelling. With that in mind the Algarve Tourist Board has compiled a list of the best places to try the various culinary specialities of the region.

The Algarve is a food lover’s paradise, boasting a rich culinary heritage influenced by its long Atlantic coastline, Moorish ancestry and sunny climate that have created a healthy Mediterranean diet of outstanding fish, shellfish, fruits and vegetables. Fresh daily catches feature on most menus and often include cockles, clams, oysters, squid, seabass, seabream, mackerel, or sardines.

For those looking for fine dining the Algarve boasts the most Michelin Star restaurants in the whole of Portugal – eight in total. And a couple of them – Ocean at Vila Parc Resort and Vila Joya each have two Michelin Stars.

For visitors wanting an authentic and local experience here is a list of where best to eat some of the region’s specialities. Prepare yourself for a tantalising journey as you eat your way around the Algarve.

Cataplana

The signature dish of the Algarve takes its name from the traditional copper pot it’s cooked in. The clamshell-shaped dish helps seal the flavours and aromas of the fresh seafood, fragrant herbs, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. To try this true taste of the Algarve, go to O Patio located in Carvoeiro who have been perfecting the art of preparing the dish for the last 59 years.

Oysters

Embark on a short boat ride to Estaminé, a secret treasure of a restaurant with 360° views over the Ria Formosa…

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