The Argo Cocktail Bar, located in the Tivoli Marina Vilamoura in the Algarve, was granted two stars in the latest Top Cocktail Bars of the Iberian Peninsula ranking, unveiled last weekend in Madrid.
The event, which brought together leading mixologists and hospitality professionals, awarded the maximum three-star rating to Lisbon’s Red Frog and Quattro Teste, as well as four bars in Spain: 14 de la Rosa (Barcelona), El Niño Perdido (Valladolid), Moonlight (Zaragoza), and Angelita (Madrid).
For The Argo, this latest distinction marks a new milestone. After debuting in the guide last year with one star, the bar now joins the two-star category thanks to its innovative concept and creative execution under bar manager Nelson de Matos, who was named Best Bartender in Portugal at the Lisbon Bar Show 2024.
Inspired by the mythical journeys of the Argonauts, The Argo’s cocktail menu combines storytelling, technique, and distinctive ingredients. From its terrace overlooking Vilamoura Marina, guests can enjoy signature creations that reinterpret the legends of Heracles, Athena, and Poseidon — each drink conceived as a modern-day odyssey.
“This two-star recognition places The Argo alongside some of the giants of world mixology, such as Paradiso in Barcelona, Isa Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, and Sips in Madrid,” said Rui Lopes, Director of Food & Beverage at Tivoli Hotels & Resorts.
Several other Portuguese bars were also recognised in this year’s ranking. Torto (Porto) and Monkey Mash (Lisbon) joined The Argo in the two-star category, while The Royal Cocktail Club (Porto), Liquid Love, and Rossio Gastro Bar (both in Lisbon) earned one star.
The ranking also included special mentions for standout venues such as BAHR, Bar na Colina, Café Klandestino, Catfish, Toca da Raposa, Fúria, and Imprensa in Lisbon; Curioso and Apotecário in Porto; Mare Restaurant & Gin Bar in Aveiro; and Spikes in Vale do Lobo, Algarve.
The Argo’s rise adds to an impressive list of accolades, including Best Hotel Bar in the Iberian Peninsula (Hotel & Mantel Awards 2023 by Condé Nast Traveler), Best Bar Team and Best Bar Menu (Lisbon Bar Show 2025), and a nomination for Best Hotel Bar in the Iberian Peninsula at the upcoming Hotel & Mantel Awards 2025, to be held in Madrid this November.
