Best Portuguese Restaurants in Lisbon (2025-2026 Guide)
Modern Portuguese cuisine is not only codfish and pastel de nata, although these are delicious. The local food scene is diverse, blending and mixing influences from Africa, the Middle East, Brazil, and Europe. At the same time, Lisbon managed to preserve its authentic tascas tipicas, small traditional taverns, known for homey ambiance, affordable prices, and Portuguese dishes. Millions of tourists visit the country every year to indulge in roasted octopus at the best Portuguese seafood restaurants, taste a variety of local queijos, or cheeses, and sip on the unique vinho verde. In this guide, you’ll learn more about the traditional Portuguese cuisine, discover the best restaurants in Lisbon with authentic dishes, and explore local dining etiquette.
Historically, Lisbon Portuguese cuisine takes its roots in the Age of Discovery, featuring a long array of seafood dishes. Africa and Brazilian influences create a diverse and unique combination of classic Mediterranean dishes and exotic flavors. In this part, we will explore the best food in Lisbon that you must try.
The number one dish that you cannot and should not avoid trying in Portugal is bacalhau. Salted cod, bacalhau can be served in numerous ways. Depending on the eatery, bacalhau can be baked in casseroles, grilled, shredded, and served with rice, potatoes, and eggs. More innovative takes on this traditional dish feature cream and cheese. The dish is so popular that it is virtually impossible to walk down any street in Lisbon and not stumble upon a restaurant or cafe that serves bacalhau.
Another iconic dish for a sweet tooth is pastel de nata, a custard pastry originating from the Belém district in the Portuguese capital. Pastel de nata is a small egg tart with a rich taste available for under two euros. The recipe came to be in the 18th century, when monks and nuns used egg whites to starch their apparel. As a result, they had a lot of leftover yolks, which were used to bake these exceptional sweets. The first bakery featuring pastel de nata emerged in 1837 in the Belem neighborhood. These days, you can sample these delicious tiny pastries at any corner of the city.
Sardinhas assadas are seasonal treats offered from June to October across the country. To celebrate Portugal's most important saint, Santo Antonio, locals treat themselves to these grilled sardines Lisbon-style, served with a piece of cornbread and boiled potatoes. Throughout the entire summer season, the tantalizing smell of sardines permeates the city, adding to the festive atmosphere and encouraging people to flock to the streets and rejoice.
As mentioned before, seafood is the staple of Lisbon Portuguese cuisine. I personally seek out seafood everywhere I go, so arroz de marisco was the perfect lunch for me. The dish is made with short-grain rice, codfish, mussels, and clams, all freshly caught in the Atlantic. The recipe originates in Portuguese fishing villages, where anglers catch sea creatures every day and prepare them with rice to feed their entire family. Sometimes combined with tomatoes, carrots, and other vegetables, arroz de marisco is a perfect comfort meal for any seafood lover.
Polvo à Lagareiro is one of the most common dishes in Portugal, characterized by a large piece of octopus and slow-baked potatoes. The dish includes roasted octopus tentacles prepared with olive oil and garlic, creating a simple yet irresistible flavor profile. It is unclear where the dish originates from, most people believe it comes from the northern part of the country, while some suggest it takes root in the Beiras region. You can also try an alternative to the octopus dish called bacalhau à Lagareiro, which uses salted cod instead.
Although the European market is dominated by cheeses from Spain, France, and Italy, Portugal has its own dairy creations. The most popular queijos, or cheeses, are a sheep's milk cheese called Serra da Estrela and São Jorge, which is a semi-hard cow milk cheese with a tiny bit of spice. If you want to truly immerse yourself in the artisanal Portuguese cheese scene and do not mind traveling, hop on an hour-long journey to the north of Lisbon to Casinha Velha in Leiria. Here, you'll be able to sample a long array of local cheeses, made from cow, sheep, and goat milk.
Finally, I'm going to end this definitely not exhaustive list of must-try Portuguese dishes with another seafood extravaganza. Lapaz, or limpets, are tiny snails found in the Azores and Madeira in the Atlantic Ocean. Lapas are grilled with garlic and butter and are to be enjoyed with a glass of white wine while overlooking the beautiful Portuguese beaches.
Before we dive deeper into the top Portuguese restaurants in Lisbon, let's try to identify the difference between tascas and contemporary Portuguese eateries. Tascas are akin to traditional taverns, offering an authentic dining experience. Tascas are mostly run by local families and serve working-class communities. They feature homey designs, cozy atmosphere, and conventional Portuguese cuisine. At tascas, you can try all the classics mentioned above, from bacalhau and sardinhas assadas to Arroz de marisco and pastel de nata. Another defining feature of tascas is their relatively low prices, a wide selection of local inexpensive house wines, and limited working hours.
Contemporary Portuguese Restaurants offer a modern twist on the traditionality of tascas, preferring to experiment with cooking techniques, innovate new ingredient combinations, and take artistic liberties on traditional recipes. At a contemporary Eatery, you can expect tasting menus, fresh ideas, and innovative plating.
Let’s begin by exploring the list of the best restaurants in Lisbon. In this part, you’ll discover quaint and intimate places for date nights, atmospheric eateries for friend groups, and casual locations that won’t break your bank.
One of the most charming and elegant neighborhoods and Lisbon, Chiado is the shopping destination, dining hub, and cultural spot. Despite the devastating fire in 1988, Chiado brims with gorgeous buildings reconstructed to their original Bella Époque architecture.
Bairro do Avillez is considered one of the best restaurants serving Portuguese Cuisine, run by the world-renowned chef Jose Avillez. I really enjoyed the restaurant's concept of sharing, offering numerous dishes for big groups of friends and families. The menu boasts a diverse mix of meats, seafood, and vegetarian meals. I went for the classic roasted octopus with garlic and rosemary and bacalhau dish, both of which exceeded my expectations. The staff is unbelievably nice and caring, making personalized suggestions based on your taste. The venue is extremely busy and popular, so consider making a reservation before heading here, especially on the weekend.
Address: R. Nova da Trindade 18, 1200-303 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €50 per person.
The birthplace of Fado and one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon, the Moorish Quarter, or Mouraria, offers a glimpse into the city's multicultural heritage. Established in the 12th century when Muslim residents were relocated to this district, Mouraria remains the most diverse area of the city, where people of Chinese, Indian, and Bangladeshi descent live side by side.
Among the best restaurants in Lisbon, Zé Da Moraria is one of the most iconic venues not only in the district, but in the Portuguese capital. The walls of the establishment are covered in posters and photographs of famous people who had eaten here before. Continuing the theme of sharing food, the eatery also features a big selection of dishes to be shared with friends and families. Here, you can sample delicious cod fish, fish, tuna steak, as well as delicate roast beef and pork loin. I finished my delectable lunch with a generous piece of chocolate cake, which was the perfect end of the meal. The restaurant offers a very familiar and cozy ambience, making you feel like you're visiting your dear friend's home.
Address: R. João do Outeiro 24, 1100-292 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €25 per person.
In the heart of Lisbon's city center lies Rossio, a mosaic plaza connecting transportation lines. From here, you can hop on any public transportation and reach every corner of this beautiful city. At night, where transforms into the center of Lisbon's nightlife, inviting street performers and food vendors to energize the crowds.
Another staple in the Portuguese culinary space, Casa do Alentejo has been around for several decades. Housed inside a stunning palace a minute away from Plaza Rossio, the restaurant is the perfect destination for a high-end dining experience. The friendly server recommended Alentejo pork with a side of asparagus and swordfish with caper sauce, which we promptly ordered with no regrets. Among the best Lisbon restaurants, Casa do Alentejo features the best dishes and ingredients from the Alentejo region and Portugal, known nationwide for its delicious food and wine.
Address: R. das Portas de Santo Antão 58, 1150-268 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €25 per person.
The artistic center of Lisbon, Santos is home to breathtaking 18th-century palaces, sophisticated showrooms, and priceless top museums in Lisbon. The neighborhood brims with high-end restaurants, wine bars, and creative hubs, drawing creative types from all over the country and beyond. Despite its aristocratic past, the area maintains a charming residential character, full of local shops and small businesses.
If you want to sample the best Francesinha in Lisbon, Marco is the place to go. From the classic sandwich we have discussed before to innovative takes on the original recipe featuring bacon, chicken kebab, and vegetarian versions, the restaurant is known for serving the best Francesinha in the city. Additionally, you can enjoy a simple steak, a variety of burgers, and soups. I went for Francesinha Red Dragon, which is a slightly spicier version of the traditional recipe. The spice was very mild, adding a fun flair to the already incredible flavor. Marco is an affordable lunch spot, providing quick and delicious meals to local office workers, without pretense or price gouging.
Address: Largo Santos 14D, 1200-808 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €20 per person.
The best area to stay in Lisbon, Alfama is where authentic Lisbon life thrives, with family-run tascas, children's playgrounds, and quaint little parks. The streets are adorned with charming medieval buildings, narrow streets, and hidden staircases, creating enchanting labyrinths. If you're in town on Saturday, come to Feira da Ladra flea market, offering countless rows of antiques, handmade crafts, and the best Portuguese food.
The perfect location for a friend's get-together is Tasca Baldaracca, a cozy family-run cafe. Among the best restaurants in Lisbon, Portugal, this establishment is known for offering modern twists on classic Portuguese recipes, such as hot dogs with kimchi, lamb kofta with hummus, and mussels with miso. My personal favourite was steak tartar with anchovies mayo, creating an unexpected combination of flavors that go together surprisingly well. In the evenings, the venue offers some musical accompaniment, producing the perfect ambience for groups of friends celebrating birthdays or simply hanging out.
Address: R. das Farinhas 1, 1100-177 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €18 per person.
What used to be a red-light district has turned into a creative hub full of artists, entrepreneurs, and visitors. The transition began in the early 2010s when local artists discovered the neighborhood, igniting a gentrification process through street art projects, hipster bars, and cultural spaces. However, the neighborhood remains very diverse, allowing spaces for African establishments, Indian and Bangladeshi grocers, and various European restaurants and shops.
If you like seafood as much as me there is no chance you will not enjoy a trip to Cervejaria Ramiro. Don't be fooled by the beer name, this best restaurant in Lisbon specializes in everything seafood, including lobsters, shrimp, crabs, scallops, oysters, and much more. Here, everything is served by the kilogram, so come with your hungriest friends to try everything you want to try. Despite the enormous size of this Cervejaria Lisbon, spanning over three floors, a prior reservation is highly recommended to avoid long waiting. Everything we tried was freshly prepared in front of our eyes, with simple recipes and affordable prices.
Address: Av. Alm. Reis 1 H, 1150-007 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €50 per person.
The center of Lisbon's Bohemia and nightlife, Bairro Alto combines elegant boutiques and vintage shops with ultra-modern clubs and art spaces. Here you will encounter students, young professionals, artists, and tourists, mingling in the streets and enjoying a nightcap. Come here for a night of authentic fado music, stunning 16th-century architecture, and an energizing atmosphere.
One of the best restaurants in Lisbon with international fusion food, Gunpowder is a popular Indian restaurant with a Mediterranean twist, masterfully combining the Portuguese and other European dishes with a Southeast Asian flavor profile. I went for braised black pork from Alentejo with spicy tamarind sauce, which was an exquisitely executed flavor combination. The fried crab in Southern Goa sauce was also a delight, as well as oysters with pickled onions. The Gunpowder's chocolate cinnamon ganache was to die for and made for the perfect evening finale.
Address: R. Nova da Trindade 13, 1200-303 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €20 per person.
In this part, I have collected a short list of hidden gems and Lisbon that will astonish you with their service, ambience, and cuisine.
The first establishment I'd like to mention is BAHR, located on the rooftop of one of the best hotels in the city, in the heart of Bairro Alto. Next to exceptional high-end dishes, featuring octopus, lobster, and tender beef, the spot is known for the incredible views of the city's magical skyline. Its Art Deco vibe, paired with creative cocktails and friendly staff, makes it the perfect place for a nightcap after a long day of sightseeing.
Address: Praça Luís de Camões 2 5º Piso, 1200-243 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €50 per person.
Delfina-Cantina was recommended to me by locals, and I was not disappointed by this intimate venue. The menu boasts the biggest wine selection I've seen, featuring a wide range of local rosé, champagne, white, and red wines. The three-course best dinner in Lisbon was made to perfection, including appetizers, a main course with either meat or bacalhau fish, and a generous portion of dessert. Known for its cozy and authentic atmosphere, one of the best local restaurants Lisbon is an intimate place perfect for a date night.
Address: Praça do Município n.º 23, 1100-365 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €30 per person.
Finally, I'd like to mention my favorite vegetarian place in Lisbon. Hidden in the labyrinth of the Moorish Quarter, The Food Temple is a prominent vegan restaurant delivering innovative vegetarian dishes with interesting twists. Mushroom scallops surprised me the most, as well as creative tofu sticks with beetroot sauce. Although the menu is quite short, it's filled with fresh organic ingredients, creative twists, and nutritious choices. Here, the vibe is laid-back and the guests are international, generating a perfect atmosphere for a lazy afternoon meal.
Address: Beco do Jasmim 18, 1100-289 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €15 per person.
First of all, stay away from touristy spots, those pretending to be traditional tascas. If you're looking for a good tasca, search for a place with a paper tablecloth, a TV screen in one corner, and a decent selection of house wines. Lunch usually begins around 1 p.m., so arrive a bit earlier to avoid big crowds. Additionally, tascas usually feature daily menus, or prato do dia, offering simple three-course meals, consisting of a small appetizer, main dish, and a bowl of soup or dessert.
Once you enter a restaurant in Lisbon, a basket with bread, olives, and other appetizers will be placed on your table. Keep in mind that this is not free, and you will be charged around €2 to €5 per person if you consume any of it.
If you are looking for the best dinner in Lisbon, consider making a reservation, especially for a trendy spot. If language is the issue, many restaurants offer booking online, via their websites or Instagram. However, it's highly advised to learn at least a couple of words in Portuguese. While many servers speak at least basic English, mastering a few simple phrases will make the communication a lot smoother.
Lisbon is home to many traditional markets, offering authentic experiences and fresh produce every day except Sundays. Mercado da Ribeira, Mercado de Campo de Ourique, and Mercado de Benfica are among the most visited markets in the city. Here, you can sample a wide selection of Portuguese food Lisbon, converse with locals about recipes, and purchase delicious artisanal cheese for your friends at home.
True foodies cannot miss the annual Festas de Lisboa festival, a huge sardine celebration, turning the streets of Alfama and Mouraria into a communal culinary space. In the fall, the city celebrates the chestnut season, with vendors offering roasted chestnuts at every corner throughout the city center.
If you are here in April, the best time to visit Lisbon for any foodie, do not miss the multi-week fish festival celebrating the city's maritime heritage with the most creative seafood dishes. In December, the city transforms into a winter wonderland full of Christmas markets offering a myriad of Portuguese snacks and sweets.
Here are two concise itineraries to visit as many places as you can, while still finding the time to explore the city.
Start your day with a cozy breakfast at Tasca Baldaracca in the Alfama neighborhood by ordering a delicious cup of coffee paired with a freshly baked cheesecake. For lunch, head to Casa do Alentejo to sample the best cuisine in the country. Treat yourself to a sirloin steak with mushrooms and a tantalizing chocolate mousse. End your busy day full of free walking tours in Lisbon at Bairro do Avillez by indulging in classic roasted octopus alongside bacalhau.
Begin your second day differently: head to Mercado da Ribiera to sample freshly caught seafood and local petiscos. As for lunch, Ze Da Moraria is the perfect spot, offering a relaxing atmosphere next to irresistible wild kebab, pork loin, and tuna steak. Finally. Cervejaria Ramiro is the ideal place for a creative nightcap along with the ultimate seafood dinner, with lobsters, shrimp, oysters, and much more.
Must-Try Portuguese Dishes in Lisbon
Historically, Lisbon Portuguese cuisine takes its roots in the Age of Discovery, featuring a long array of seafood dishes. Africa and Brazilian influences create a diverse and unique combination of classic Mediterranean dishes and exotic flavors. In this part, we will explore the best food in Lisbon that you must try.
Bacalhau
The number one dish that you cannot and should not avoid trying in Portugal is bacalhau. Salted cod, bacalhau can be served in numerous ways. Depending on the eatery, bacalhau can be baked in casseroles, grilled, shredded, and served with rice, potatoes, and eggs. More innovative takes on this traditional dish feature cream and cheese. The dish is so popular that it is virtually impossible to walk down any street in Lisbon and not stumble upon a restaurant or cafe that serves bacalhau.
Pastel de nata
Another iconic dish for a sweet tooth is pastel de nata, a custard pastry originating from the Belém district in the Portuguese capital. Pastel de nata is a small egg tart with a rich taste available for under two euros. The recipe came to be in the 18th century, when monks and nuns used egg whites to starch their apparel. As a result, they had a lot of leftover yolks, which were used to bake these exceptional sweets. The first bakery featuring pastel de nata emerged in 1837 in the Belem neighborhood. These days, you can sample these delicious tiny pastries at any corner of the city.
Sardinhas assadas
Sardinhas assadas are seasonal treats offered from June to October across the country. To celebrate Portugal's most important saint, Santo Antonio, locals treat themselves to these grilled sardines Lisbon-style, served with a piece of cornbread and boiled potatoes. Throughout the entire summer season, the tantalizing smell of sardines permeates the city, adding to the festive atmosphere and encouraging people to flock to the streets and rejoice.
Arroz de marisco
As mentioned before, seafood is the staple of Lisbon Portuguese cuisine. I personally seek out seafood everywhere I go, so arroz de marisco was the perfect lunch for me. The dish is made with short-grain rice, codfish, mussels, and clams, all freshly caught in the Atlantic. The recipe originates in Portuguese fishing villages, where anglers catch sea creatures every day and prepare them with rice to feed their entire family. Sometimes combined with tomatoes, carrots, and other vegetables, arroz de marisco is a perfect comfort meal for any seafood lover.
Polvo à Lagareiro
Polvo à Lagareiro is one of the most common dishes in Portugal, characterized by a large piece of octopus and slow-baked potatoes. The dish includes roasted octopus tentacles prepared with olive oil and garlic, creating a simple yet irresistible flavor profile. It is unclear where the dish originates from, most people believe it comes from the northern part of the country, while some suggest it takes root in the Beiras region. You can also try an alternative to the octopus dish called bacalhau à Lagareiro, which uses salted cod instead.
Queijo
Although the European market is dominated by cheeses from Spain, France, and Italy, Portugal has its own dairy creations. The most popular queijos, or cheeses, are a sheep's milk cheese called Serra da Estrela and São Jorge, which is a semi-hard cow milk cheese with a tiny bit of spice. If you want to truly immerse yourself in the artisanal Portuguese cheese scene and do not mind traveling, hop on an hour-long journey to the north of Lisbon to Casinha Velha in Leiria. Here, you'll be able to sample a long array of local cheeses, made from cow, sheep, and goat milk.
Lapas
Finally, I'm going to end this definitely not exhaustive list of must-try Portuguese dishes with another seafood extravaganza. Lapaz, or limpets, are tiny snails found in the Azores and Madeira in the Atlantic Ocean. Lapas are grilled with garlic and butter and are to be enjoyed with a glass of white wine while overlooking the beautiful Portuguese beaches.
Tasca vs. Contemporary Portuguese: What’s the Difference?
Before we dive deeper into the top Portuguese restaurants in Lisbon, let's try to identify the difference between tascas and contemporary Portuguese eateries. Tascas are akin to traditional taverns, offering an authentic dining experience. Tascas are mostly run by local families and serve working-class communities. They feature homey designs, cozy atmosphere, and conventional Portuguese cuisine. At tascas, you can try all the classics mentioned above, from bacalhau and sardinhas assadas to Arroz de marisco and pastel de nata. Another defining feature of tascas is their relatively low prices, a wide selection of local inexpensive house wines, and limited working hours.
Contemporary Portuguese Restaurants offer a modern twist on the traditionality of tascas, preferring to experiment with cooking techniques, innovate new ingredient combinations, and take artistic liberties on traditional recipes. At a contemporary Eatery, you can expect tasting menus, fresh ideas, and innovative plating.
Top Portuguese Restaurants by Neighborhood
Let’s begin by exploring the list of the best restaurants in Lisbon. In this part, you’ll discover quaint and intimate places for date nights, atmospheric eateries for friend groups, and casual locations that won’t break your bank.
Chiado: Bairro do Avillez
One of the most charming and elegant neighborhoods and Lisbon, Chiado is the shopping destination, dining hub, and cultural spot. Despite the devastating fire in 1988, Chiado brims with gorgeous buildings reconstructed to their original Bella Époque architecture.
Bairro do Avillez is considered one of the best restaurants serving Portuguese Cuisine, run by the world-renowned chef Jose Avillez. I really enjoyed the restaurant's concept of sharing, offering numerous dishes for big groups of friends and families. The menu boasts a diverse mix of meats, seafood, and vegetarian meals. I went for the classic roasted octopus with garlic and rosemary and bacalhau dish, both of which exceeded my expectations. The staff is unbelievably nice and caring, making personalized suggestions based on your taste. The venue is extremely busy and popular, so consider making a reservation before heading here, especially on the weekend.
Address: R. Nova da Trindade 18, 1200-303 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €50 per person.
Moorish Quarter: Zé Da Moraria
The birthplace of Fado and one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon, the Moorish Quarter, or Mouraria, offers a glimpse into the city's multicultural heritage. Established in the 12th century when Muslim residents were relocated to this district, Mouraria remains the most diverse area of the city, where people of Chinese, Indian, and Bangladeshi descent live side by side.
Among the best restaurants in Lisbon, Zé Da Moraria is one of the most iconic venues not only in the district, but in the Portuguese capital. The walls of the establishment are covered in posters and photographs of famous people who had eaten here before. Continuing the theme of sharing food, the eatery also features a big selection of dishes to be shared with friends and families. Here, you can sample delicious cod fish, fish, tuna steak, as well as delicate roast beef and pork loin. I finished my delectable lunch with a generous piece of chocolate cake, which was the perfect end of the meal. The restaurant offers a very familiar and cozy ambience, making you feel like you're visiting your dear friend's home.
Address: R. João do Outeiro 24, 1100-292 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €25 per person.
Rossio: Casa de Alentejo
In the heart of Lisbon's city center lies Rossio, a mosaic plaza connecting transportation lines. From here, you can hop on any public transportation and reach every corner of this beautiful city. At night, where transforms into the center of Lisbon's nightlife, inviting street performers and food vendors to energize the crowds.
Another staple in the Portuguese culinary space, Casa do Alentejo has been around for several decades. Housed inside a stunning palace a minute away from Plaza Rossio, the restaurant is the perfect destination for a high-end dining experience. The friendly server recommended Alentejo pork with a side of asparagus and swordfish with caper sauce, which we promptly ordered with no regrets. Among the best Lisbon restaurants, Casa do Alentejo features the best dishes and ingredients from the Alentejo region and Portugal, known nationwide for its delicious food and wine.
Address: R. das Portas de Santo Antão 58, 1150-268 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €25 per person.
Santos: Marco
The artistic center of Lisbon, Santos is home to breathtaking 18th-century palaces, sophisticated showrooms, and priceless top museums in Lisbon. The neighborhood brims with high-end restaurants, wine bars, and creative hubs, drawing creative types from all over the country and beyond. Despite its aristocratic past, the area maintains a charming residential character, full of local shops and small businesses.
If you want to sample the best Francesinha in Lisbon, Marco is the place to go. From the classic sandwich we have discussed before to innovative takes on the original recipe featuring bacon, chicken kebab, and vegetarian versions, the restaurant is known for serving the best Francesinha in the city. Additionally, you can enjoy a simple steak, a variety of burgers, and soups. I went for Francesinha Red Dragon, which is a slightly spicier version of the traditional recipe. The spice was very mild, adding a fun flair to the already incredible flavor. Marco is an affordable lunch spot, providing quick and delicious meals to local office workers, without pretense or price gouging.
Address: Largo Santos 14D, 1200-808 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €20 per person.
Alfama: Tasca Baldaracca
The best area to stay in Lisbon, Alfama is where authentic Lisbon life thrives, with family-run tascas, children's playgrounds, and quaint little parks. The streets are adorned with charming medieval buildings, narrow streets, and hidden staircases, creating enchanting labyrinths. If you're in town on Saturday, come to Feira da Ladra flea market, offering countless rows of antiques, handmade crafts, and the best Portuguese food.
The perfect location for a friend's get-together is Tasca Baldaracca, a cozy family-run cafe. Among the best restaurants in Lisbon, Portugal, this establishment is known for offering modern twists on classic Portuguese recipes, such as hot dogs with kimchi, lamb kofta with hummus, and mussels with miso. My personal favourite was steak tartar with anchovies mayo, creating an unexpected combination of flavors that go together surprisingly well. In the evenings, the venue offers some musical accompaniment, producing the perfect ambience for groups of friends celebrating birthdays or simply hanging out.
Address: R. das Farinhas 1, 1100-177 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €18 per person.
Intendente: Cervejaria Ramiro
What used to be a red-light district has turned into a creative hub full of artists, entrepreneurs, and visitors. The transition began in the early 2010s when local artists discovered the neighborhood, igniting a gentrification process through street art projects, hipster bars, and cultural spaces. However, the neighborhood remains very diverse, allowing spaces for African establishments, Indian and Bangladeshi grocers, and various European restaurants and shops.
If you like seafood as much as me there is no chance you will not enjoy a trip to Cervejaria Ramiro. Don't be fooled by the beer name, this best restaurant in Lisbon specializes in everything seafood, including lobsters, shrimp, crabs, scallops, oysters, and much more. Here, everything is served by the kilogram, so come with your hungriest friends to try everything you want to try. Despite the enormous size of this Cervejaria Lisbon, spanning over three floors, a prior reservation is highly recommended to avoid long waiting. Everything we tried was freshly prepared in front of our eyes, with simple recipes and affordable prices.
Address: Av. Alm. Reis 1 H, 1150-007 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €50 per person.
Bairro Alto: Gunpowder Lisboa
The center of Lisbon's Bohemia and nightlife, Bairro Alto combines elegant boutiques and vintage shops with ultra-modern clubs and art spaces. Here you will encounter students, young professionals, artists, and tourists, mingling in the streets and enjoying a nightcap. Come here for a night of authentic fado music, stunning 16th-century architecture, and an energizing atmosphere.
One of the best restaurants in Lisbon with international fusion food, Gunpowder is a popular Indian restaurant with a Mediterranean twist, masterfully combining the Portuguese and other European dishes with a Southeast Asian flavor profile. I went for braised black pork from Alentejo with spicy tamarind sauce, which was an exquisitely executed flavor combination. The fried crab in Southern Goa sauce was also a delight, as well as oysters with pickled onions. The Gunpowder's chocolate cinnamon ganache was to die for and made for the perfect evening finale.
Address: R. Nova da Trindade 13, 1200-303 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €20 per person.
Freetour's Shortlists
In this part, I have collected a short list of hidden gems and Lisbon that will astonish you with their service, ambience, and cuisine.
BAHR for Exceptional Views
The first establishment I'd like to mention is BAHR, located on the rooftop of one of the best hotels in the city, in the heart of Bairro Alto. Next to exceptional high-end dishes, featuring octopus, lobster, and tender beef, the spot is known for the incredible views of the city's magical skyline. Its Art Deco vibe, paired with creative cocktails and friendly staff, makes it the perfect place for a nightcap after a long day of sightseeing.
Address: Praça Luís de Camões 2 5º Piso, 1200-243 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €50 per person.
Delfina-Cantina for Local Vibe
Delfina-Cantina was recommended to me by locals, and I was not disappointed by this intimate venue. The menu boasts the biggest wine selection I've seen, featuring a wide range of local rosé, champagne, white, and red wines. The three-course best dinner in Lisbon was made to perfection, including appetizers, a main course with either meat or bacalhau fish, and a generous portion of dessert. Known for its cozy and authentic atmosphere, one of the best local restaurants Lisbon is an intimate place perfect for a date night.
Address: Praça do Município n.º 23, 1100-365 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €30 per person.
Food Temple for a Vegetarian Meal
Finally, I'd like to mention my favorite vegetarian place in Lisbon. Hidden in the labyrinth of the Moorish Quarter, The Food Temple is a prominent vegan restaurant delivering innovative vegetarian dishes with interesting twists. Mushroom scallops surprised me the most, as well as creative tofu sticks with beetroot sauce. Although the menu is quite short, it's filled with fresh organic ingredients, creative twists, and nutritious choices. Here, the vibe is laid-back and the guests are international, generating a perfect atmosphere for a lazy afternoon meal.
Address: Beco do Jasmim 18, 1100-289 Lisboa, Portugal
Average check: €15 per person.
Portuguese Dining Etiquette & Tips
First of all, stay away from touristy spots, those pretending to be traditional tascas. If you're looking for a good tasca, search for a place with a paper tablecloth, a TV screen in one corner, and a decent selection of house wines. Lunch usually begins around 1 p.m., so arrive a bit earlier to avoid big crowds. Additionally, tascas usually feature daily menus, or prato do dia, offering simple three-course meals, consisting of a small appetizer, main dish, and a bowl of soup or dessert.
Once you enter a restaurant in Lisbon, a basket with bread, olives, and other appetizers will be placed on your table. Keep in mind that this is not free, and you will be charged around €2 to €5 per person if you consume any of it.
If you are looking for the best dinner in Lisbon, consider making a reservation, especially for a trendy spot. If language is the issue, many restaurants offer booking online, via their websites or Instagram. However, it's highly advised to learn at least a couple of words in Portuguese. While many servers speak at least basic English, mastering a few simple phrases will make the communication a lot smoother.
Seasonal & Regional Spotlights
Lisbon is home to many traditional markets, offering authentic experiences and fresh produce every day except Sundays. Mercado da Ribeira, Mercado de Campo de Ourique, and Mercado de Benfica are among the most visited markets in the city. Here, you can sample a wide selection of Portuguese food Lisbon, converse with locals about recipes, and purchase delicious artisanal cheese for your friends at home.
True foodies cannot miss the annual Festas de Lisboa festival, a huge sardine celebration, turning the streets of Alfama and Mouraria into a communal culinary space. In the fall, the city celebrates the chestnut season, with vendors offering roasted chestnuts at every corner throughout the city center.
If you are here in April, the best time to visit Lisbon for any foodie, do not miss the multi-week fish festival celebrating the city's maritime heritage with the most creative seafood dishes. In December, the city transforms into a winter wonderland full of Christmas markets offering a myriad of Portuguese snacks and sweets.
Itineraries for Food Lovers
Here are two concise itineraries to visit as many places as you can, while still finding the time to explore the city.
24-Hour Classic Portuguese Hit List
Start your day with a cozy breakfast at Tasca Baldaracca in the Alfama neighborhood by ordering a delicious cup of coffee paired with a freshly baked cheesecake. For lunch, head to Casa do Alentejo to sample the best cuisine in the country. Treat yourself to a sirloin steak with mushrooms and a tantalizing chocolate mousse. End your busy day full of free walking tours in Lisbon at Bairro do Avillez by indulging in classic roasted octopus alongside bacalhau.
48-Hour Seafood & Petiscos Crawl
Begin your second day differently: head to Mercado da Ribiera to sample freshly caught seafood and local petiscos. As for lunch, Ze Da Moraria is the perfect spot, offering a relaxing atmosphere next to irresistible wild kebab, pork loin, and tuna steak. Finally. Cervejaria Ramiro is the ideal place for a creative nightcap along with the ultimate seafood dinner, with lobsters, shrimp, oysters, and much more.
