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Eat Like a Local: Portugal’s Top Family Dining Spots

Insights
5 min read
Published 9 hours ago

A Football Escapes holiday in Portugal offers more than world-class football coaching and luxurious resort amenities; it’s also the perfect opportunity to explore exceptional local restaurants.

Restaurant on waterfront

While our Portugal resorts offer a fantastic variety of on-site dining options to suit every taste and occasion, we know that part of the joy of a family holiday is discovering the local flavours and hidden gems beyond the resort. For families looking to venture out and soak up the region’s authentic food scene, there are countless nearby restaurants that are well worth exploring.

From relaxed lakeside lunches to mouthwatering seafood dinners overlooking the Atlantic, families will find an abundance of incredible restaurants local to their resort which will perfectly enhance their stay.

Here’s a guide to some of Portugal’s finest family-friendly eateries that promise unforgettable culinary experiences.

Bovino Steak House

Bovino Steak House is a vibrant, family-friendly spot renowned for premium steaks and mouthwatering flavours. Whether it’s tender fillets or perfectly cooked ribeyes, every dish is exceptional. Parents can unwind with award-winning cocktails, while the lively atmosphere keeps everyone entertained.

Open daily from 18:00 to 23:30 – a top choice for a fun, flavour-packed evening the whole family will enjoy.

To find out more, click here

The Bold Octopus

Seafood dish

Perfectly positioned for sunset sea views, The Bold Octopus serves up fresh seafood, fine wines, and expertly mixed cocktails in a laid-back, beachfront setting.

Families can dine together with beachfront views, or head to the rooftop for live music and panoramic views — turning every meal into something special.

To find out more, click here

Caso Do Lago

Casa Do Lago Restaurant

Caso Do Lago offers the very best in coastal Portuguese dining, with freshly caught seafood and dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients. Its nautical-inspired décor and welcoming atmosphere make it a wonderful place for families to soak in the beauty of Quinta do Lago.

Open from midday through to late evening (12:00–23:00), it’s a go-to for delicious food and stunning views, any time of day.

To find out more, click here

Bamboo

Live DJ

Bamboo offers a stylish, energetic atmosphere serving delicious Asian fusion cuisine. Guests can indulge in innovative dishes complemented by the rhythms of a live DJ, creating an unforgettable dining experience every night.

To find out more, click here

Umami

Asian food

Umami delivers refined Asian dining inspired by traditional Japanese grilling methods. Guests can enjoy expertly prepared dishes that highlight authentic flavours, complemented by a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere, perfect for an elevated culinary experience.

To find out more, click here

Il Vero

Italian food

Authentic Italian cuisine awaits at Il Vero where pastas, pizzas, and expertly crafted cocktails provide an inviting dining experience.

Families can enjoy the warm, Mediterranean ambiance, perfect for relaxing evenings together.

To find out more, click here

Sandbanks

Offering spectacular ocean views, Sandbanks is ideal for everything from leisurely family breakfasts to romantic dinners. The diverse menu caters to all tastes, ensuring every family member can enjoy delightful meals while overlooking the stunning Atlantic coastline.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this relaxed beachfront spot is perfect for any time of day — whether you’re fuelling up before a day on the pitch or winding down as the sun sets.

To find out more, click here

Parilla Natural

Food display

Inspired by traditional Uruguayan cuisine, Parilla Natural specialises in cooking over an open Parrilla grill, producing bold, authentic flavours. Families will love the relaxed, welcoming environment and unique dining experience.

To find out more, click here

U&Co.

Mediterranean food

Perched on a peaceful hillside overlooking Vale do Lobo beach, U&Co. offers wholesome Mediterranean dishes crafted with passion. Housed in a beautifully restored traditional home, enjoy flavourful cuisine with breathtaking ocean views.

Open daily from 12:00 to 15:00 for lunch and 18:00 to 22:00 for dinner — perfect for al fresco meals in the sunshine or relaxed evening dining under the stars.

To find out more, click here

Botânico

Steak cooking

Botânico offers exceptional grilled meat and fish, cooked over open fires for intense flavours. Its welcoming atmosphere, complemented by deliciously crafted cocktails, makes it a fantastic choice for family dinners and memorable nights out.

Complete with The Restaurant, The Terrace and The Drinks Garden, there’s a setting to suit every occasion.

To find out more, click here

Maria’s

Portuguese dish

At Maria’s, families can savour fresh Portuguese and international dishes, featuring daily-delivered seafood, house-made desserts, and a carefully curated wine list. Its welcoming ambiance ensures families enjoy relaxed, quality dining moments together.

To find out more, click here

Tony’s Pizza

Fresh pasta

Tony’s Pizza brings a taste of Italy to Portugal with classic pizzas, fresh pastas, and homemade sauces. Ideal for families craving comforting Italian dishes, its relaxed atmosphere and generous portions ensure everyone leaves happy and satisfied.

With a variety of brunch options and pizza making workshops on offer, Tony’s is more than just dinner — it’s a full family experience.

To find out more, click here

The Shack

Located lakeside, The Shack provides a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere ideal for families. Enjoy tasty, casual dishes, refreshing drinks, and live music—all set against a picturesque backdrop. Perfect for laid-back afternoons or lively family dinners.

Open from 09:00 to 21:00, with options to reserve a cabana or sunbed on the saltwater beach lake of The Shack.

To find out more, click here

Savour the Best of Portugal, Together

Portugal truly delivers when it comes to family-friendly dining. With this incredible selection of local restaurants, families can enjoy delicious cuisine, stunning settings, and unforgettable memories to complement their Football Escapes holiday.

Whether it’s fresh seafood by the sea, mouthwatering steaks, or laid-back lakeside bites, Portugal’s vibrant culinary scene offers something special for every family to enjoy.

View our upcoming Portugal Holidays here

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