What to Eat in Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a food lover’s dream destination!From its historic streets to its lively markets, the city is full of flavours that reflect its rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another taste, Lisbon’s traditional dishes are a must-try. In this guide, you’ll discover the best foods in Lisbon, where to eat them, and tips on how to make the most of your culinary adventure. Prepare to savour the flavours of the city that truly define Portuguese cuisine! Bacalhau: The Iconic Salted Codfish Bacalhau, or salted cod, is often considered the heart and soul of Portuguese cuisine. Known as the “faithful friend” in Portugal, this iconic fish is said to have over 365 different recipes, one for each day of the year. In Lisbon, you’ll find some of the most delicious and authentic bacalhau dishes, each showcasing its versatility and profound connection to Portuguese culture. Here are some of the best recipes to try: Bacalhau à Brás: This comforting classic is a delicious mixture of shredded salted cod, finely chopped onions and matchstick potatoes, all bound together with scrambled eggs and topped with black olives and fresh parsley. The creamy texture and salty-savoury balance make Bacalhau à Brás a favourite of locals and visitors alike. Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Vinho Verde, to enhance its light, refreshing flavours. Bacalhau com Natas: Delicious and satisfying, this baked casserole features layers of salted cod and thinly sliced potatoes wrapped in a velvety cream sauce. Topped with a golden crust, Bacalhau com Natas is the epitome of comfort food. A glass of smooth, chilled Chardonnay or a creamy Portuguese white wine like Encruzado complements the richness of this dish perfectly. Pastéis de Bacalhau: These crispy cod fritters are a must-try snack in Lisbon. Golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside, Pastéis de Bacalhau are a testament to the versatility of salted cod. Often served with a glass of refreshing Vinho Verde or a light Portuguese lager, these bite-sized delicacies are perfect for a quick snack or as a starter before the main course. Sardinhas Assadas: Grilled Sardines In Lisbon, summer isn’t complete without the smoky aroma of sardinhas assadas filling the air, especially during the vibrant Festas de Lisboa in June. Fresh sardines are seasoned with coarse salt, grilled over an open fire, and served on slices of rustic bread that absorb their rich, smoky juices. Typically accompanied by a simple salad and boiled potatoes, this dish is a true Lisbon classic. For the perfect pairing, enjoy it with a chilled glass of Vinho Verde, a light rosé, or a refreshing Portuguese lager. Caldo Verde: The Green Soup A comforting staple all over Portugal, caldo verde originated in the Minho region but has become a national favourite. This hearty soup combines thinly sliced kale, potatoes, onions, and garlic, simmered to perfection. Slices of smoky chouriço add a burst of flavour, making it both simple and satisfying. Traditionally served with a slice of cornbread (broa), this dish is perfect for cooler evenings. Pair it with a glass of red wine or even a light Vinho Verde for an authentic Portuguese dining experience. Bifana: The Pork Sandwich A popular street food in Portugal, the bifana is a simple but flavourful sandwich. It features thin slices of pork marinated in garlic, white wine and spices, sauteed to perfection and served in a fresh, crusty bread roll. Juicy and packed with flavour, it’s the perfect grab-and-go meal. Pair it with a cold Portuguese lager such as Sagres or Super Bock to elevate this classic experience. Pastéis de Nata: The Beloved Custard Tarts No visit to Lisbon is complete without tasting the iconic pastéis de nata. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with silky custard and baked to perfection with a caramelized top. Widely available all over Lisbon, they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. For an authentic experience, visit Pastéis de Belém, the legendary bakery that popularized the treat. Pair them with a shot of espresso or a glass of port for the ultimate satisfaction. Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: Clams in Garlic and Wine Sauce This classic Portuguese dish is made from fresh, local clams cooked in a fragrant mixture of garlic, white wine, olive oil and coriander. The simple preparation allows the natural flavours of the seafood to emerge. Served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, it’s a favourite starter or light meal. Pair it with a chilled glass of Vinho Verde or a crisp Portuguese white wine for a refreshing accompaniment. Polvo à Lagareiro: Octopus with Olive Oil and Garlic Polvo à Lagareiro is a traditional Portuguese dish made with tender octopus that is first boiled and then roasted with olive oil, garlic and aromatic herbs. It’s served with crispy roasted potatoes for a delicious combination. A chilled white wine or a refreshing Vinho Verde is the perfect accompaniment to this flavourful dish, enhancing the rich flavour of the seafood. Alheira: The Flavorful Sausage Alheira is a traditional Portuguese sausage with a unique history. Created by Portuguese Jews during the Inquisition to resemble pork sausage, it’s made from a mixture of meats like poultry and venison, seasoned with garlic and bread. Usually fried and served with a sunny side egg and crispy French fries, alheira is a deliciously rich dish. To enhance its bold flavours, pair it with a glass of robust red wine or a refreshing vinho verde. Arroz de Marisco: Seafood Rice Arroz de marisco is a flavorful Portuguese seafood rice dish often compared to Spanish paella. It features a variety of fresh seafood, including shrimp, clams, and mussels, all cooked in a rich broth with tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic herbs. This is the perfect dish to share with loved ones, making it a great choice for family gatherings or celebrations. To enhance the experience, pair it with a crisp white wine or chilled Vinho Verde. Queijo da Serra: