The Algarve is still one of the summer vacation destinations favorite of the Portuguese, especially Lisbon residents, whose summer mecca is almost three hours away.
Although many choose to take the direct route, stopping only briefly at a pump to stretch their legs or go to the toilet, there are those who like to make small detours and stop along the way to indulge in the delicious Alentejo cuisine.
That’s our case! We love stopping for lunch on the way to the Algarve and these are just the first three restaurants we suggest, just a few kilometers from the A2.
Table Of Contents
Tasca do Filipe
It’s in the friendly village of Aljustrel, just nine kilometers from the A2, and was our most recent visit on our way to the Algarve.
At the entrance, a typical Alentejo tavern, but further inside you’ll find a room capable of satisfying the hunger of more than 15 guests (perfect for large families).
The specialties are grilled meats, with a huge roaster between the two rooms, but keep an eye out for dailyspecials .
We decided to try Chícharos com Borrego, which was wonderfully prepared by the owner and cook of the house, a very nice lady who treated us like kings.
Address: Rua de Montes Velhos 5 (Aljustrel)
Distance: a 1h40 lisbon
Zé Inácio
Family-run and with room for many guests, the Zé Inácio restaurant is one of our favorites every time we pass through Porto Covo on our way to the Algarve.
It has the freshest fish in the area, especially if you’re looking for the fish of the summer: we’re talking about the traditional grilled sardines, of course!
However, there are other dishes such as the Açorda Alentejana de Bacalhau, which is some of the best we’ve had in these parts of our beloved Portugal.
Since this is a popular restaurant for vacationers in the area, our suggestion is that you arrive a little early so you don’t have to wait in line for too long.
Address: Rua Vasco da Gama 38 (Porto Covo)
Distance: a 1h55 lisbon
Celso’s Tasca
This restaurant on the way to the Algarve may well be one of the best known to those who make the journey every year.
Its fame goes beyond borders, and this is evident at the tables, where foreigners are always coming to taste the best of traditional Alentejo cuisine.
For us, it is undoubtedly one of the best places to stop and sample the snacks and delicacies of these lands.
And if you’re lucky, you ‘ll find Celso himself there, who will surely give you the best suggestions for dishes and wine to accompany your meal: our Monkfish Rice was divine.
Address: Rua dos Aviadores 34 (Vila Nova de Milfontes)
Distance: a 2h15 lisbon
Cidades, vilas e praias da costa litoral portuguesa que valem a pena a viagem