With each plate that leaves the kitchen at Senses, Chef Diogo Pereira invites guests on a journey—one that travels the contours of the Algarve coast, stops by the region’s storied past, and finishes with a refined nod to global gastronomy. Located at the five-star Cascade Wellness Resort in Lagos, Senses is far more than a fine dining venue—it is a culinary narrative shaped by tradition, terroir, and the steady hand of one of the Algarve’s most inspirational chefs.
A native of the region, Chef Diogo Pereira brings soul to the plate, grounded in his passion for local ingredients and Portuguese culinary heritage. His journey has taken him from prestigious kitchens like Hotel Quinta do Lago and Vila Vita Parc to far-flung stints in Italy and Venezuela. Yet, it is here in his homeland where his creativity truly flourishes. Pereira isn’t just a chef—he’s a storyteller, teacher, and steward of Algarve’s edible history. When not in the kitchen, he’s mentoring the next generation of culinary talent as a popular instructor at the Algarve School of Hospitality and Tourism.
Dining at Senses feels personal. The chef’s three surprise tasting menus are shaped by seasonality and mood—each course a thoughtful expression of the moment. On a recent visit, the highlight came early: plump, briny oysters from OstraSelect in the Ria de Alvor, delicately prepared to honor their delicate maritime essence. These oysters, cultivated with artisanal care in nutrient-rich waters just kilometers from the resort, bring a sense of place that no import could rival.
Local sourcing isn’t a gimmick here—it’s a philosophy. From sun-kissed produce to coastal seafood and rustic breads to locally-produced wines, every element reflects Pereira’s quiet reverence for the Algarve. His signature Turbot with Pig’s Trotters and Coriander Sauce is a case in point: rich in flavor, bold in texture, and unmistakably Portuguese.
The setting enhances the sensory delight—sea views, golden light at dusk, and the rhythmic hush of ocean breeze. For those seeking a deeper connection, the Chef’s Table offers a rare look behind the culinary curtain, where technique, inspiration, and spontaneity converge.
Senses is a rare gem in the western Algarve—refined but rooted, luxurious yet heartfelt. At its core is Chef Pereira, a chef who doesn’t just cook the Algarve—he honors it.
For more information, visit the Senses Restaurant webpage.
Cascade Wellness Resort
Rua das Ilhas
Lagos
Western Algarve
Phone: +351 282 771 500
Email: reservations@sensesrestaurantlagos.com
Hours: Friday to Tuesday – 19:00 to 22:00 from 7 PM to 10 PM