Portugal
Discover the best restaurants, dishes, and local cuisine in Lisbon, Portugal. Read authentic reviews, browse menus, and find your perfect dining experience.
Lisbon's flavors are characterized by fresh ingredients, simple preparations, and a focus on quality. Seafood reigns supreme, complemented by robust flavors from olive oil, garlic, and herbs like cilantro and parsley. Expect hearty portions and a genuine love for traditional recipes.
Shredded salt cod scrambled with thinly fried potatoes, onions, and eggs, often garnished with black olives and parsley. A Lisbon staple, showcasing the versatility of bacalhau (salt cod).
Grilled sardines, usually served whole on a slice of bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A summer favorite, especially during the Santos Populares festivities.
A traditional green soup made with pureed potatoes, thinly sliced kale (couve-galega), and chouriço sausage. A comforting and hearty dish, often served as a starter.
A flavorful seafood rice dish, similar to paella, featuring a variety of shellfish like prawns, clams, and mussels, cooked in a rich tomato and seafood broth.
A creamy custard tart with a flaky pastry crust, often sprinkled with cinnamon. Originally from Belém, but now a ubiquitous and beloved dessert throughout Lisbon.
Thinly sliced pork marinated in garlic and white wine, served in a crusty bread roll. A simple yet satisfying and popular street food.
To fully experience Lisbon's culinary scene, keep these tips in mind:
Explore the Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods for authentic tascas and a more local dining experience.
Petiscos are Portuguese tapas, perfect for sharing and sampling a variety of flavors. Order a selection with friends and enjoy.
Portugal boasts a diverse range of wines. Ask your server for recommendations and explore the local varietals.
Lisbon restaurants often open later than in other European cities, with dinner typically starting around 8 pm.
Especially for popular restaurants, making a reservation in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season.
Lisbon's cuisine is a tapestry woven from centuries of maritime exploration, trade, and cultural exchange. Influences from the Age of Discovery brought spices from the East, while its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean dictates a strong focus on fresh seafood. Moorish occupation also left its mark, particularly in the use of herbs and sweets.
Food in Lisbon is more than just sustenance; it's a central part of social life and cultural identity. From bustling markets to cozy tascas, the city celebrates its culinary heritage with passion and pride.
Tascas are traditional, family-run restaurants serving simple, affordable, and authentic Portuguese dishes. Cervejarias specialize in seafood and beer, often offering a lively and casual atmosphere.
A vibrant food hall showcasing a diverse range of Lisbon's best restaurants and chefs, offering a modern take on traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Coffee is an integral part of Lisbon's daily routine. Enjoy a bica (espresso) at a traditional café, often accompanied by a pastel de nata.
During the month of June, Lisbon celebrates its patron saints with street parties, grilled sardines, and vinho tinto (red wine).