Whether you plan to spend your time on the golden sands, competing to see who can build the biggest sandcastle, or teach the kids how to perfect their swings on its famous golf courses, the Algarve is the perfect place for a family holiday. There are also plenty of places to enjoy a bite to eat together, as Peter Jenkins of Sun-hat Villas & Resorts explains.
KOKO – Quinta do Lago
With a menu offering delicious seafood, spiced meats and pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven, Koko is the perfect stop to fill your stomach before you compete for family champion at the nearby mini golf course. While you wait for your order, children can pass the time in the play area, giving you time to sip a refreshing glass of crisp white wine and enjoy the warm weather.
BJ’s Oceanside – Praia de Almargem
Sat at the very edge of the Praia de Almargem, BJ’s charming, shack-styled restaurant specialises in freshly-caught, grilled fish. After a morning on the beach, you can retreat to the restaurant for a bite to eat while you keep a keen eye on your children playing around in the sand.
Dining on Sundays is also accompanied by live music, so take a seat, enjoy your meals and see if you can sing along – your kids can even rummage around Bec’s famous dressing-up box to find the perfect costume to dance in.
Dano’s – Quinta do Lago
For the sports-loving families among us, there is no better place to dine than Dano’s Sports Bar. If you fancy a game of tennis, or a day exploring the natural beauty of the Ria Formosa, Dano’s has you covered for your post-activity refreshments. Unwind in the cooling patio dining area, or admire the traditional sporting décor as you watch the regularly broadcasted live sporting events and sample classic burgers.
The Shack – Quinta do Lago
With water activities, live music, great food and a lakeside beach, The Shack has everything a family could want. Designed in a rustic fisherman’s shack-style, you can dine on tacos, salads, burgers and seafood overlooking Quinta do Lago’s namesake lake. Then, to wash it down, enjoy a refreshing smoothie or milkshake before claiming a good spot for the night’s music act.
Kaya’s Restaurant – Almancil
After making a splash at the nearby Aquashow water park, it’s time to wind down and enjoy the fine Portuguese cuisine at Kaya’s Restaurant. If your little ones don’t fancy anything from the special kids’ menu, then half-portions of the main menu can be ordered too. Dine on a Friday and you’ll experience the famous, freshly caught cod and homemade chips – a Portuguese take on the British classic.
Children can also burn off any excess energy in the sofa area, where they’ll find a selection of games.
Bovino – Quinta do Lago
Designed by one of Europe’s most acclaimed interior decorators, Bovino is known for its fine steaks and award winning cocktail bar. The children’s play area will keep the little ones happy while you enjoy the ambience and sip down on a Privateer or a Smokey Fashioned – two of Bovino’s cocktail classics.
Parrilla Natural – Almancil
Set in one of the most idyllic locations in the Algarve, Parrilla Natural offers an atmospheric dining experience with a varied menu, designed by executive chef Elisio Bernardes. Whilst you enjoy your steak, cooked over their bespoke ‘Parrilla’ using organic Holly Oak charcoal, you can relax in the warming night air, as the central pine tree illuminates the garden terrace.
The steakhouse also offers a wide range of desserts, and stunning signature cocktails. The little ones can enjoy the secure children’s play area, with plenty of activities to keep them entertained, with face-painting and movies shown every evening during the summer.
Amore – Vale do Lobo
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated dining experience with pizza, pasta and freshly-caught fish, or a couple of evening drinks to unwind with the ocean as a backdrop, Amore has it all. With live music playing every night from the Praca’s central stage, it’s the perfect place to fill up before a sunset stroll along the shoreline.
Mughal Clay Indian Restaurant – Vilamoura
It is common knowledge that Mughal Clay is the best Indian – and, maybe even the best restaurant – on the marina. With exceptionally friendly, yet professional staff, generous portions and reasonable prices, this is definitely a restaurant you can’t pass on.
With a great range of options, including take out, there are dishes for everyone, from the heat seeking spice lovers, to those who prefer something milder.
-This is guest post by Sun-hat Villas. For more details on their luxury Algarve villas, please visit: www.sun-hat-villas.com .
