Lisbon is a paradise for food lovers. From fresh seafood caught daily to century-old recipes and innovative culinary twists, the city’s food scene has something to captivate every palate. My recent journey through Lisbon was a true culinary adventure, offering flavors and experiences I couldn’t wait to share. Here’s a guide to some of the best spots to eat and the must-try dishes that capture the heart and soul of Lisbon’s vibrant culinary scene.
1. Pastéis de Belém – The Original Portuguese Custard Tart
No foodie’s visit to Lisbon is complete without indulging in the famous pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts). While these delicious treats can be found throughout Lisbon, the original ones at Pastéis de Belém are a must. Located in the Belém district, this bakery has been serving custard tarts since 1837, following a secret recipe passed down by monks.
Experience: The line outside Pastéis de Belém was long but moved quickly, and the wait was worth it. Each tart arrived warm with a perfectly crispy, flaky crust and a creamy custard filling that melted in my mouth. Sprinkling a bit of cinnamon and powdered sugar on top elevated the flavors even more. I devoured two in one go and bought a box to take back to my hotel.
Location: Rua de Belém, Belém district, Lisbon
Tip: Enjoy them fresh at the bakery for the full experience, or grab a few to enjoy by the nearby Jerónimos Monastery.
2. Cervejaria Ramiro – Seafood Heaven
If you’re a seafood lover, Cervejaria Ramiro is an unmissable stop. This casual, bustling spot has been a favorite among locals and travelers alike for decades, offering some of the freshest seafood in Lisbon. I was excited to try Ramiro’s famous seafood platter, and it truly exceeded my expectations.
Experience: The menu features everything from clams in garlic sauce to giant tiger prawns and lobster. I started with Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams in garlic and white wine sauce), which were so fragrant and flavorful that I ended up using bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. The prawns, grilled to perfection, were juicy and had a smoky flavor that added depth. Ending the meal with a prego (steak sandwich) was the perfect surprise twist – it’s a tradition here, and somehow it pairs beautifully with the seafood.
Location: Av. Almirante Reis 1, Intendente, Lisbon
Tip: Be prepared for a wait; Ramiro is extremely popular. Arriving early or late in the evening can help you beat the crowds.
3. Time Out Market Lisbon – A Food Hall Adventure
For a sample of Lisbon’s diverse food offerings all in one place, Time Out Market is the place to be. Located in the Mercado da Ribeira, this food hall hosts over 40 kiosks from some of Lisbon’s best chefs and restaurants. I spent several hours here, tasting different dishes, savoring each bite, and mingling with other food lovers.
Experience: The options were overwhelming, but I managed to try a few highlights. The bacalhau à brás (codfish scramble with potatoes and onions) from one of the kiosks was one of my favorite bites, as was a plate of tender polvo à lagareiro (grilled octopus with olive oil and garlic). For dessert, I couldn’t resist grabbing another pastel de nata from the famous Manteigaria stand.
Location: Avenida 24 de Julho 49, Cais do Sodré, Lisbon
Tip: Time Out Market can get crowded, especially in the evenings. I visited around lunchtime, which allowed me to grab a table and enjoy my food at a more relaxed pace.
4. Taberna da Rua das Flores – Traditional Portuguese Tapas
Hidden in the Chiado district, Taberna da Rua das Flores offers a menu that celebrates traditional Portuguese flavors with a contemporary twist. This cozy, dimly lit restaurant feels almost like a speakeasy, and the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so I arrived early and enjoyed a glass of wine while waiting for a table.
Experience: The menu at Taberna da Rua das Flores changes regularly, but one dish that consistently stands out is their take on petiscos (Portuguese tapas). I started with the peixinhos da horta (green bean tempura), which were light, crispy, and served with a tangy dipping sauce. Another highlight was the alheira sausage served with roasted potatoes – the smoky flavor of the sausage paired perfectly with the earthy potatoes.
Location: Rua das Flores 103, Chiado, Lisbon
Tip: Arrive early, as this place fills up quickly. They don’t take reservations, but the food and atmosphere are well worth the wait.
5. Prado – Farm-to-Table Freshness
For a modern twist on Portuguese cuisine, Prado offers a farm-to-table approach, focusing on seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and fisheries. Located in a beautifully restored warehouse, Prado’s minimalist decor reflects its emphasis on simple, high-quality ingredients.
Experience: The standout dish here was the mackerel with cucumber and green apple, which was fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced. The carabineiro shrimp was another highlight, cooked just right and bursting with flavor. The portions are small but packed with complexity, making Prado an ideal spot for a memorable, refined dining experience.
Location: Travessa das Pedras Negras 2, Baixa, Lisbon
Tip: Prado is a popular spot for food enthusiasts, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
6. A Ginjinha – Lisbon’s Favorite Cherry Liqueur
A visit to Lisbon wouldn’t be complete without trying Ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur that locals enjoy at almost any time of the day. There are several spots around Lisbon to try it, but my favorite was A Ginjinha, a tiny bar near Rossio Square.
Experience: I ordered a small shot, which was served with a cherry at the bottom of the cup. The liqueur was sweet, warming, and had just the right amount of tartness. I sipped it slowly, enjoying the flavor and atmosphere around me. A Ginjinha is more than just a drink – it’s a Lisbon tradition, and there’s no better way to feel like a local than by joining in.
Location: Largo de São Domingos, Rossio, Lisbon
Tip: You can opt to have your ginjinha with or without the cherry. Locals often prefer it with!
7. Must-Try Street Foods in Lisbon
Beyond the restaurants and food halls, Lisbon has a variety of street foods that are perfect for a quick bite or snack while exploring the city.
- Bifana: This traditional pork sandwich is simple yet delicious, with juicy pork marinated in spices and served on crusty bread. You can find it at street vendors and small taverns across Lisbon, and it’s the perfect snack to fuel your day of sightseeing.
- Chouriço Assado: Grilled Portuguese chorizo is commonly cooked over an open flame and has a smoky, spicy flavor that’s hard to resist. I had this at a small stand in the Alfama district, and it was the perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine.
- Fried Green Beans: Known as Peixinhos da Horta, these are green beans lightly battered and fried until crispy. They’re light, crunchy, and addictive – and a great introduction to Portuguese tapas.
Street Food Safety Tip: Lisbon street food is generally safe, but look for vendors with good hygiene practices. I always go to vendors that have a steady flow of customers, which often indicates freshness.
Planning Your Culinary Adventure in Lisbon
- Pace Yourself: With so many amazing dishes to try, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. I recommend pacing yourself and taking time between meals to fully enjoy each experience.
- Adjusting Your Budget: Dining out in Lisbon can vary in cost, from budget-friendly street food to pricier fine dining options. If you’re traveling on a budget, balance your meals between these options. You can also save by visiting markets like Mercado da Ribeira to grab fresh produce or snacks.
- Travel Insurance: Before setting out on a food adventure, consider getting travel insurance. This provides peace of mind in case of any unexpected mishaps. I found it reassuring to have coverage, especially as I was sampling a wide variety of foods.
Lisbon’s food scene is a delightful blend of tradition, innovation, and pure flavor. From the iconic pastel de nata to fresh seafood and modern dishes at farm-to-table restaurants, Lisbon has something to please every palate.
