Food For Thought In The Algarve

Talking of golden shores; not only is Portugal renowned for its beach life filled with sand and sea, it's what you'll find in the deep blue sea that will make you look forward to dinner time soon after. After all, this seafaring country is one of Europe's top performers! 

The country's cuisine is based on it's fresh ingredients. For example, have you heard of Bacalhau (cod)? While it may be simply a traditional dish to some Brits, it's a national obsession for many locals in The Algarve.

The influence and recognition of the Portuguese fishing industry and its fine tastes are second to none. Whether you choose to grill, boil, fry or steam your Bacalhau; served with potatoes, onions, tomatoes and olives, perfectly compliments the salty flavor on the tip of your tongue. This type of fish is in fact a traditional Christmas Eve dinner in some parts of Portugal - have you ever seen your festive Turkey flap its wings in disgust at the thought of being substituted for a fish?! 

Now don't go thinking that Bacalhau is the only edible piece on the menu, other popular seafood includes fresh sardines, seabass, octopus, squid, cuttlefish, crabs, shrimp and prawns - not to mention a lovely bit of lobster for those who enjoy the jet set life. You can also find a great variety of other fish and shellfish in the form of clams, mussels, oysters, periwinkles, and scallops - we told you that the Portuguese shores can cater for your taste buds!

Nonetheless, us Brits also love our meat and if the thought of fish isn't quite turning you on, you'll be pleased to learn that Pork and Beef are the most common meats in Portugal. You may also be interested in other popular dishes such as caldo verde (soup), which is made with potato, shredded collard greens, and chunks of a spicy local sausage named chouriço.

If you still have room in the pits of your stomach, perhaps you're a great lover of cheese and biscuits - who isn't? The milk from local dairy animals such as cows and goats produce a flavored taste and smell, from soft to mature tastes for all to enjoy.

For those with a sweeter tooth popular pastries found in most cafés, bakeries and pastry shops across the country are the Bola de Berlim, the Pão-de-ló, the Bolo de Arroz, and the Tentúgal - perfect for those who are fearless with the dentist upon their return to the UK.

Portuguese cuisine and fine dining is a unique, cultural experience that produces the fine flavors of nutritious and tasty foods from all over the country, coupled with natural, homemade recipes being intertwined within the idyllic locations of Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura for a wide range of holiday sun seekers. From Michelin-starred restaurants to tapas bars, you'll feel right at home in paradise.

Why not try the local delicacies for yourself via some of the stunning restaurants residing across The Algarve:

• Gigi's, Quinta do Lago - Central Algarve
• 2 Passos, Quinta do Lago - Central Algarve
• Antonio's, Vale do Lobo - Central Algarve
• Evaristo, Albufeira - Central Algarve
• Ocean, Alcantarilha - Central Algarve
• Rei das Praias, Central Algarve
• Luar da Foia, Monchique, Central Algarve
• Bon Bon Restaurant, Central Algarve
• Paixa, Vale do Lobo, Central Algarve

Regency Luxury Villas are the premier rental agency in the region with a wide range of knowledge about the area including the best restaurants and where to find the most succulent piece of fish!

If you wish to receive a service second to none and have the choice of the finest properties within the Algarve, then you have arrived at the right place.

Please either browse our website for our carefully selected luxury villa rentals or complete the contact form and let us do the work by sending you the perfect recommendation for you. 

Book your break away for this year or next and explore this wonderful cuisine with Regency Luxury Villas - it's a way of life.