The Algarve’s Authentic restaurant has celebrated its inclusion in the list of the 2026 Michelin Guide Recommended eateries.
Located in Almancil, near Quinta do Lago, the restaurant is led by chef Ricardo Luz, whose contemporary take on Portuguese cuisine impressed representatives from the world’s most famous gastronomic guide.
Chef Ricardo Luz welcomed the recognition, saying it reflects the “daily work of the whole team” and their aim to create an “authentic gastronomic experience” focused on “the products, flavours and creativity of Portuguese contemporary cuisine”.
According to the Michelin Guide, recommended restaurants are those that stand out for their food quality and the overall experience they offer diners, making them key stops for food lovers exploring a destination.
The restaurant’s inclusion on the list “strengthens its position as one of the most exclusive gastronomic experiences in the Algarve,” the team behind Authentic says in a statement to the press. “The Michelin Guide recommendation will act as an additional incentive to continue exploring new stages and welcome those looking for the best food in our region”.
The 2026 Michelin Guide brought new accolades for Portugal, which saw 10 national restaurants awarded their first star. In total, Portugal now boasts 53 restaurants with Michelin stars. The Algarve received seven Michelin stars, divided amongst 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.
Alongside Authentic, six other restaurants in the Algarve were singled out as Recommended: Coral (Porches), Austa (Almancil), Duoo Gastro Theatre (Portimão), Cafezique (Loulé), Mesa Farta (Tavira), and Pearl (Faro).
