Food in the Algarve: Fresh Flavors and Local Traditions at the House of Honey

Tiffany holds freshly made salad with walnuts, local greens and cracked pepper drizzled with balsamic vinegar

One of the true joys of coming to the Algarve --and the House of Honey Retreat Center --is the food. This southern coast of Portugal is not only blessed with golden beaches and dramatic cliffs but also with rich farmland, olive groves, and the sparkling Atlantic. Food in the Algarve reflects this abundance — simple, fresh, and deeply connected to the land and sea.

The Lagos Farmer’s Market

At the heart of Lagos is the Mercado Municipal, a bustling farmer’s market where stalls overflow with seasonal produce, just-caught fish, and handmade treats. Walking through the market is an experience in itself — the scent of herbs, the bright colors of fruit, the calls of fishmongers, and the warmth of local farmers sharing their harvest.

This is where House of Honey sources much of its retreat food. Fresh figs, sweet oranges, local honey, olives, and crusty bread are staples, alongside fish and shellfish brought in daily from the harbor. Shopping at the Lagos farmer’s market is not only practical, it’s a way of connecting directly to the rhythm of Algarve life.

Seafood by the Sea

Food in the Algarve is inseparable from the ocean. Grilled sardines are perhaps the most iconic dish — smoky, tender, and eaten with your fingers on a piece of fresh bread. Cataplana, a traditional seafood stew named after the clam-shaped pot it is cooked in, is another must-try. Octopus, clams, and seabass all find their way into the menus of local restaurants, often cooked simply to let the freshness shine.

Fruits of the Land

Beyond the sea, the Algarve’s fertile soil gives rise to an abundance of fruits and vegetables. Oranges from the Algarve are famous for their sweetness, while figs, carobs, and almonds are celebrated in both traditional desserts and modern dishes. In summer, melons and tomatoes ripen under the sun, bursting with flavor. Local olive oil, golden and peppery, is a staple in nearly every meal.

Traditional Dishes to Try

• Piri-Piri Chicken: Spicy, smoky, and grilled to perfection.

• Caldo Verde: A simple, nourishing soup of potatoes, kale, and chorizo.

• Pastéis de Nata: Portugal’s beloved custard tarts — creamy, flaky, and irresistible.

• Dom Rodrigos: A sweet almond-and-egg treat wrapped in colorful foil, unique to the Algarve.

• Seasonal Figs drizzled with locally sourced honey and slivered almonds

Wine and More

The Algarve is also a growing wine region, with small vineyards producing fresh whites and rich reds that pair beautifully with local cuisine. A glass of vinho verde, light and slightly effervescent, is the perfect companion to seafood by the sea.

Food in the Algarve is more than sustenance — it is an expression of place. To eat here is to taste the sun, the sea, and the traditions that have been carried through generations. From the lively Lagos farmer’s market to the quiet pleasure of fresh bread dipped in olive oil, every meal is an invitation to slow down and savor.

At the House of Honey we place food as one of our top priorities (right behind safety). Our caterers plan meals designed for athletes, serving food that is not only delicious but is also nutritious. Food is your fuel and we are here to make sure your body gets what it needs to perform at its best.