Tastes of Lagos: A Food & History Tour with an Aussie Twist
G'day! I'm your host—an Aussie who came to Lagos 18 years ago for the beaches and stayed for the food, the sunshine, and the dangerously charming locals. Join me for a 4-hour walking tour through the heart (and stomach) of Lagos, featuring authentic Portuguese food and drink, fascinating historical tidbits, and just enough bad jokes to keep things interesting. The tour starts in Praça Gil Eanes outside the famous Dom Sebastiao statue
Stop 1: Mercado Central
We’ll kick things off with a bang—and a bite—at Mercado Central, where we’ll meet the fabulous Maria, who practically runs the place with a ladle in one hand and olive oil in the other. Sample cheeses, olive oils, spicy piri piri, locally canned tuna and mackerel, marmalade, and top it off with a glass of Port wine (because it’s never too early for Port in Portugal).
Stop 2: Ala do Castelo
Next, we settle in for a group feast at Ala do Castelo with the legendary Cataplana—a seafood stew loaded with prawns, mussels, clams, and monkfish, simmered in a tomato-and-potato broth. Grab a hunk of garlic toast, ladle it out family-style, and wash it all down with a refreshing jug of sangria. You’ll never look at a stew the same way again.
Stop 3: Mr Toast
Our next bite brings us to Mr Toast, Tiago’s café that’s taken the humble codfish cake to glorious new heights. The award-winning pasteis de bacalhau were recently named finalists in the 7 Wonders of Portuguese Gastronomy—and rightly so. Best enjoyed with a crisp, cold imperial (beer) and possibly a napkin to catch the happy tears.
Stop 4: Moinho Bar & Grill
Here’s where we go full Portuguese with a grilled fish experience by the sea. If it’s sardine season (May–August), we’ll be feasting on those smoky, silver beauties. Outside those months, it’s Dourada (Golden Sea Bream) or Robalo (Seabass)—no complaints there. We’ll also nibble on a traditional Portuguese couvert: fresh bread, olives, pates, and those marinated carrots you never knew you needed. To drink? A glass of Vinho Verde, Portugal’s young, lightly sparkling white wine that’s fresh, fruity, and slightly lower in alcohol—because we’re not done yet.
Stop 5: Sudoeste Snack Bar
We’ll wrap things up sweetly at Sudoeste, with a classic BICA cheia (a full espresso to kick you awake), a warming Macieira (Portuguese brandy), and the one and only Pastel de Nata—Portugal’s legendary custard tart. Recently crowned “Best Pastry on Earth” by TasteAtlas.com, and for good reason. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s caused a global obsession (and more than a few broken diets).
Throughout the tour, you’ll not only taste the best of Portugal—you’ll learn about the explorers, kings, and important figures who helped shape this country’s story. It’s a journey through Portuguese history, culture, and cuisine, with plenty of laughs and zero pretentiousness.
Come hungry. Leave happy. Possibly slightly tipsy. Definitely in love with Lagos.
