The Algarve is celebrating its growing status as a top culinary destination in Portugal after earning a new Michelin star in the 2026 Guide, bringing its total to seven Michelin-starred establishments.
The region also boasts a number of new entries in the Guide’s “Recommended” category, which tourism authorities in the Algarve say reinforces its status as a leading gastronomic spot in southern Europe.
The big news is Faro’s Alameda, led by chef Rui Sequeira, which received its very first Michelin star. As the Algarve tourism board (RTA) says in a statement, the accolade recognises Sequeira and his team for their “contemporary cuisine that highlights local ingredients, seasonal products, and the region’s unique gastronomic identity”. Michelin itself praises the restaurant for its respectful take on Algarve’s seafood flavours.
With this new addition, the Algarve’s Michelin scene now includes two two-star restaurants – Vila Joya in Albufeira (chef Dieter Koschina) and Ocean in Porches (chef Hans Neuner) – and five one-star establishments – Gusto by Heinz Beck in Almancil, Bon Bon in Lagoa, Vista in Portimão, A Ver Tavira in Tavira, and the newly starred Alameda in Faro.
The 2026 guide also highlights 34 new “Recommended” restaurants across Portugal, including seven from the Algarve: Coral (Porches), Austa (Almancil), Authentic (Almancil), Duoo Gastro Theatre (Portimão), Cafezique (Loulé), Mesa Farta (Tavira), and Pearl (Faro).
André Gomes, president of the RTA, hailed the recognition as proof of the “quality, creativity and consistency of Algarve gastronomy”.
“These distinctions showcase the talent of our chefs and their teams, highlight local products and our identity, and reinforce the Algarve as a premium and authentic destination, geared more and more towards high-value experiences,” he said.
Click here for the full list of awarded restaurants in Portugal.
