I had the pleasure of visiting many European destinations, there’s something magical about Portugal that keeps drawing me back, especially the charming town of Lagos. Nestled in the Algarve, Lagos boasts not only beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, and a rich history but also an incredible array of delectable desserts. After savoring your delicious Portuguese meal, there’s no better way to end the evening than with a traditional Portuguese dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned dessert lover or just beginning to explore Portugal’s culinary delights, Lagos offers a variety of sweet treats that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. In this article, I’ll share some of the best Portuguese desserts you must try in Lagos, where to find them, and insider tips on how to make the most of your dessert experience.
1. Pastel de Nata – The Iconic Portuguese Custard Tart
Restaurant: O Camilo
Address: Praia do Camilo, Lagos, Portugal
Must-Try Dessert: Pastel de Nata
Price Range: €2–€3 per tart
If there’s one Portuguese dessert that needs no introduction, it’s Pastel de Nata, the irresistible custard tart that’s become synonymous with Portuguese pastry culture. I first had one of these tarts on my first trip to Portugal, and I’ve been hooked ever since. The flaky, buttery pastry filled with velvety smooth custard is simply heaven in every bite.
In Lagos, O Camilo is one of my favorite spots to enjoy this iconic dessert. Located right by the picturesque Praia do Camilo beach, this restaurant offers a relaxed yet cozy atmosphere with ocean views that add to the charm. Their Pastel de Nata is freshly baked daily, and the rich custard paired with the crisp pastry creates the perfect balance of textures. I recommend having it with a cup of Portuguese coffee for the full experience.
Why I Love It: The contrast between the warm, slightly caramelized custard and the delicate, crisp pastry makes this dessert a standout. Every time I visit O Camilo, I make it a point to indulge in their Pastel de Nata—it’s the perfect way to end a delicious seafood meal.
Booking Tip: You don’t need a reservation for O Camilo if you’re just stopping by for dessert, but if you’re planning to dine in the evening, I’d recommend booking a table through Booking.com or OpenTable to avoid waiting. These platforms often offer special deals and flexible booking options.
2. Bolo de Caco – Traditional Algarve Bread Cake with a Sweet Twist
Restaurant: Casa do Prego
Address: Rua do Mercado, 8650-742 Lagos, Portugal
Must-Try Dessert: Bolo de Caco com Doce de Abóbora (Pumpkin Jam on Algarve Bread)
Price Range: €3–€4 per slice
Though traditionally considered a bread, Bolo de Caco has a deliciously unique twist when served as a dessert. This dense, slightly sweet bread is a typical treat in the Algarve region, and in Lagos, Bolo de Caco is often paired with different toppings, such as pumpkin jam. The version served at Casa do Prego is one of the best I’ve tasted.
Casa do Prego is a charming, rustic restaurant known for its delicious Portuguese tapas and warm, welcoming service. Their Bolo de Caco is baked fresh and served warm, with a generous helping of sweet pumpkin jam that perfectly complements the bread’s dense texture. The bread itself has a slight sweetness, and the pumpkin jam adds a lovely touch of earthy sweetness with just a hint of spice.
Why I Love It: Bolo de Caco is a beloved treat in the Algarve, and this dessert version is a wonderful combination of traditional flavors with a sweet twist. The warm bread and jam combination feels incredibly comforting, and it’s something I crave every time I visit Lagos.
Booking Tip: Casa do Prego is a popular spot, especially in the evenings. To get a table during the busy dinner hours, I suggest making a reservation on Resy or Bookatable for a seamless experience. You might also be able to take advantage of any ongoing promotions.
3. Travesseiros – Light, Flaky Almond Puff Pastry
Restaurant: A Forja
Address: Rua de São João de Deus, 8600-536 Lagos, Portugal
Must-Try Dessert: Travesseiros
Price Range: €3–€4
Another dessert that I can’t resist when I’m in Lagos is Travesseiros, which translates to “pillows.” These puff pastry pastries are stuffed with a delightful almond cream filling and then lightly dusted with powdered sugar. At A Forja, the perfect balance of crunchy, flaky pastry with a rich, sweet almond filling keeps me coming back every time.
Located near the historic center of Lagos, A Forja is a cozy, unassuming bakery with a wide selection of pastries. The Travesseiros here are known for their delicate texture and rich flavor. The almonds in the filling are ground to a creamy consistency, making each bite melt in your mouth. This dessert is light but indulgent, and it’s the perfect end to a savory meal.
Why I Love It: The pastry’s light, airy texture combined with the nutty almond filling is simply irresistible. After a hearty Portuguese meal, this dessert feels like the perfect sweet conclusion, without being too overwhelming.
Booking Tip: You can easily stop by A Forja for dessert without a reservation, but for larger groups, I recommend reserving a table in advance via TheFork, especially during peak times.
4. Pudim Flan – Traditional Portuguese Caramel Custard
Restaurant: Restaurante dos Artistas
Address: Rua da Senhora da Gloria, 8600-747 Lagos, Portugal
Must-Try Dessert: Pudim Flan (Portuguese Caramel Flan)
Price Range: €5–€7
One of the simplest yet most satisfying Portuguese desserts is Pudim Flan. This caramel custard is creamy, smooth, and has just the right balance of sweetness. At Restaurante dos Artistas, a renowned fine dining spot in Lagos, their Pudim Flan is perfectly executed. The flan is smooth, with a glossy caramel layer that’s not too sweet but perfectly balanced.
The ambiance at Restaurante dos Artistas is refined and artistic, making it the perfect place to indulge in a special dessert after a delicious meal. The flan’s delicate flavor pairs wonderfully with a cup of Portuguese espresso or a dessert wine.
Why I Love It: The Pudim Flan at Restaurante dos Artistas is a quintessential example of this dessert done right. The silky smooth custard and rich caramel topping are a harmonious combination that leaves me craving more.
Booking Tip: Restaurante dos Artistas is a highly popular spot, so I recommend booking a table in advance on OpenTable or Resy. You might also want to check if they have any seasonal offers or promotions to get the best deal.
5. Tarte de Amêndoa – Almond Tart
Restaurant: Lagos Central Café
Address: Praça Infante Dom Henrique, 8600-525 Lagos, Portugal
Must-Try Dessert: Tarte de Amêndoa (Almond Tart)
Price Range: €3–€4
For those who love almonds, Tarte de Amêndoa is an absolute must-try. This almond tart is a delightful combination of a crunchy tart base and a rich almond filling. At Lagos Central Café, the tart is made fresh daily, and I always find myself returning for a slice (or two). The almond filling is buttery, rich, and slightly sweet, while the crust offers a nice balance of texture. It’s the kind of dessert that pairs perfectly with a light afternoon coffee.
Located in the heart of Lagos, Lagos Central Café is a perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by. Their Tarte de Amêndoa is one of the best I’ve had in the region, and the café’s charming ambiance adds to the experience.
Why I Love It: The almond flavor is rich yet delicate, and the tart’s texture is perfectly balanced. It’s a simple dessert, but it’s one that’s always satisfying and comforting.
Booking Tip: Lagos Central Café doesn’t require reservations, but if you plan to visit during lunch or dinner hours, it’s better to arrive early, especially during peak tourist season.
Where to Book Your Dessert Experience
When it comes to booking your meals and experiences in Lagos, TripAdvisor and TheFork are fantastic platforms to use. TripAdvisor provides authentic reviews and booking options for a variety of restaurants, including detailed information on popular dishes and dessert recommendations. If you’re looking for the best deals and the ability to book in advance, TheFork is an excellent choice for securing a table, especially in busy restaurants like Restaurante dos Artistas or Casa do Prego.
Additionally, for accommodation in Lagos, platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb offer a wide selection of options, whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy apartment near the beach. Both websites often feature discounts and deals, especially if you book in advance or during the off-season.
If you’re also planning on visiting other attractions in the Algarve, GetYourGuide and Viator offer a variety of tours and activities to explore the region, from wine tasting tours to boat trips along the coast.
Lagos is a place where food is not just nourishment—it’s a way to experience the soul of the town. The desserts here, from the iconic Pastel de Nata to the rich Pudim Flan, showcase the depth of Portuguese pastry traditions. Whether you’re relaxing by the beach, strolling through the cobbled streets of the old town, or enjoying a meal at one of the many cozy cafés and restaurants, Lagos offers some of the best desserts Portugal has to offer.
If you find yourself in Lagos, don’t miss out on these irresistible sweets. Take the time to savor them, explore the charming cafés and restaurants, and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere that makes this town so special.
