Tasca do Miguel — Restaurant in Albufeira

Tucked just around the corner from the overly touristy streets and loud bars lies a small, character-filled restaurant that delivers something truly special. The service was refreshingly genuine. Our waitress was honest, down-to-earth, and effortlessly helpful—no fake smiles or rehearsed lines, just real hospitality. She recommended a few starters, and we’re so glad we took her advice. We began with fried baby squid, pica pau, and gizzards—each dish full of flavour, beautifully seasoned, and perfectly cooked. The portions were generous. Shame that we didn’t even get a chance to snap a photo - a rare sign that we were too busy enjoying ourselves. For mains, the octopus was a standout—tender, smoky, and rich without being heavy. The veal ‘kebab’ was another surprise: juicy, flavour-packed, and plated with care. Every bite felt thoughtful and rooted in tradition, but delivered with flair. The food speaks for itself, the service feels real, and the setting makes you want to linger a little longer. A rare find—and absolutely worth...

Looking for a restaurant in the Old Town can be challenging if trying to avoid the full-on tourist trap. This looked promising, with a few small groups seated outside, and initially a warm welcome, but once seated, it turned. The waiter was very disinterested. When two dishes on the menu weren’t available, I asked for recommendations but was met with a shrug “It’s for you”. There was no chit chat, no engagement. He was very engaged with other diners, but also kept mentioning to the two tables within earshot to make sure they left good reviews online. I had the mushrooms and the green octopus salad. The salad was so-so, with some pieces of the octopus chewy. The mushrooms were a little on the side of salty, and the fries were a mix of soggy and partially raw. The pate served with the breads was nice and can be recommended. It was only when I declined to stay for dessert (as I felt unwelcome), that I think the waiter realised I was underwhelmed by the meal. This was the second worst meal I had in Albufeira and I...

Miguel and his beautiful wife have made a feel good, sexy space to make you smile. Filipa welcomed us with pure joy as she explained the menu and romanced the space. We had just had dinner so drinks & dessert. Folhado dessert was divine with the sweet flaky phyllo and dive into the goodness of egg cream & chocolate- it was finger licking good! Followed up with Chocofigo picante & carob chocolate and some delicious port. Portuguese tunes fill the space with happiness and maybe you’ll be blessed to have an excellent singer, João Leiria to sing an emotional song impromptu at the bar. It was an amazing night! I’ll follow up soon with a dinner cause I know how incredible Miguel as a chef, he is full of...