Taste of Portugal: A Gastronomic Tour of the Best Restaurants in Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that eats with soul. The Portuguese capital offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences, from humble neighborhood taverns to sophisticated restaurants. Here’s a hand-picked list of the best places to sample Lisbon’s traditional and contemporary cuisine.

Time Out Market (Cais do Sodré)
This bustling gourmet food hall is perfect for first-time visitors looking to sample a wide range of Portuguese flavors. From regional specialties to modern takes on classic dishes, Time Out Market brings together over 40 food options, including stalls from some of Lisbon’s best chefs. Sample bacalhau à brás, fresh seafood or suckling pig, all under one historic roof.

Zé da Mouraria (Mouraria)
Tucked away in the historic Mouraria neighborhood, this simple tavern is renowned for its generous portions and rustic charm. Here, tradition reigns supreme. The pork tenderloin with chestnuts and cozido à portuguesa are dishes full of flavor and authenticity. Get there early or be prepared to wait—the locals fill up quickly.

Clube de Fado (Alfama)
A quintessential Lisbon experience. At Clube de Fado, dine in a stone room while talented musicians perform Portugal’s melancholic national music. Try dishes like octopus à lagareiro or monkfish rice, paired with a fine Douro wine. The atmosphere is as unforgettable as the food.

Belcanto (Chiado)
Chef José Avillez’s flagship restaurant is one of Lisbon’s culinary gems, with two Michelin stars. At Belcanto, traditional Portuguese ingredients are reinvented in a playful and sophisticated way. I savored edible olive spheres, barnacles with seaweed textures, and reinvented cod. A must-try for lovers of haute cuisine.

Stay Restaurant (Estádio da Luz)
And for football fans, with direct views of the Estádio da Luz, Stay Restaurant is the ideal place to enjoy artisanal burgers in a relaxed and modern atmosphere. The menu includes creative combinations, fresh ingredients and a gourmet touch that takes this classic American meal to a new level, perfect for a casual dinner with flavor and personality.

Taberna da Rua das Flores (Chiado)
A small bistro with a constantly changing handwritten menu, inspired by the different regions of Portugal. This space mixes nostalgia and creativity, with highlights such as black pork with citrus fruits, marinated mackerel or cuttlefish stew. The atmosphere is intimate and the flavors always surprising.

Prado (Sé)
A modern space, focused on sustainability and organic and seasonal ingredients. At Prado, expect dishes such as aged beef tartare with egg yolk jelly or grilled kale with toasted hazelnuts. The selection of natural wines and the industrial chic décor make it a favorite among locals and food lovers.

Cervejaria Ramiro (Intendente)
Probably Lisbon’s most famous seafood restaurant. Expect a lively, informal atmosphere, ice-cold beer and the freshest seafood – garlic clams, tiger prawns and red shrimp. Don’t miss the “prego” at the end of the meal, traditionally served to end the feast.

Solar dos Presuntos (Avenida da Liberdade)
This elegant, old-fashioned restaurant specialises in cuisine from the north of Portugal, particularly the Minho region. Dishes such as seafood rice, grilled lobster and roast veal are served with flair. It’s a favourite spot for politicians, celebrities and those celebrating special occasions.

Pastéis de Belém (Belém)
The birthplace of the famous pastel de nata. Since 1837, these golden, crispy and creamy treats have been made using a secret recipe from the local monastery. Enjoy them warm, sprinkled with cinnamon and icing sugar, and accompanied by a bica (espresso).

Chocolate Landeau (LX Factory)
Tucked away in the trendy LX Factory, this minimalist café serves just one thing: the richest, moistest chocolate cake in town. Smooth, rich, and not too sweet, it’s the perfect way to end any Lisbon culinary adventure.