Portuguese cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean influences, featuring an abundance of fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and locally sourced ingredients. From the iconic Bacalhau à Brás (salted codfish) to the tantalizing Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese custard tarts), each dish reflects the country’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a meat enthusiast, or a vegetarian seeking delectable options, our recommendations cater to all tastes and preferences.
The Best Restaurants in Lisbon for Authentic Portuguese Cuisine
Floresta das Escadinhas: Authentic Portuguese Grills
Floresta das Escadinhas is a top-rated traditional restaurant in Lisbon’s Baixa district, known for its Portuguese grill cuisine. Popular with both locals and tourists, it offers great dishes, friendly service, and helpful staff, making it a must-visit spot in the heart of the city.
Mediterranean, Barbecue, $
2 Monkeys: Intimate Culinary Excellence
Michelin-starred Vítor Matos has brought his culinary excellence to Lisbon, with Francisco Quintas leading the restaurant at Torel Palace Lisbon. The exclusive 2 Monkeys restaurant, seating 14 guests around a kitchen-facing counter, offers a unique dining experience with a surprise 14-course tasting menu. Open five nights a week, the menu costs between €150 and €250 with wine pairing.
European, Contemporary, $$$$
Blue Bistrot: Exquisite Mediterranean Dining
Blue Bistrot in Lisbon offers a charming dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine. Nestled in a cozy, elegant setting, it features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and expertly crafted dishes. Guests can enjoy a curated wine selection and warm, attentive service. Perfect for a relaxed yet refined meal in the heart of the city.
International, Mediterranean, $$ – $$$
Belcanto: A Michelin-Starred Culinary Marvel
Located in Chiado, Belcanto is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a refined dining experience with a creative twist on Portuguese classics. Chef José Avillez’s innovative approach to traditional dishes creates a unique and memorable dining experience.
Contemporary, Portuguese, $$$$
Alma: Contemporary Portuguese Delights
Lisbon Timeout Market: A Food Lover's Paradise
Cais do Sodré is home to the Lisbon Timeout Market, a vibrant food hall featuring a variety of stalls offering Portuguese specialties. Here, you can sample different dishes in one place, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore diverse flavors.
Quick Bites, Seafood, $$ – $$$
Cervejaria Ramiro: Seafood Paradise
A Casa do Bacalhau: Bacalhau Mastery
Taberna da Rua das Flores: Cozy and Charming
Nestled in Bairro Alto, Taberna da Rua das Flores is a cozy and intimate restaurant that offers a delightful selection of petiscos (Portuguese tapas) and regional dishes. It’s a charming spot to explore Portuguese flavors in a warm and inviting setting.
Mediterranean, European, $$ – $$$
Solar dos Presuntos: Classic Portuguese Fare
Tágide: A Culinary Vista in Chiado
Sr. Lisboa: Authentic Portuguese Flavors
A Travessa: An Elegant Gastronomic Journey
Housed in a former convent in Campo de Santa Clara, A Travessa offers a unique dining experience with an elegant ambiance and a menu that showcases Portuguese gastronomy. Enjoy the refined and historical atmosphere as you dine on exquisite Portuguese dishes.
Mediterranean, European, $$$$
É um Restaurante: Culinary Excellence with a Social Mission
É Um Restaurante is a refined, welcoming spot in Lisbon with a mission of social reintegration. Run by CRESCER and chefs Nuno Bergonse and David Jesus, it offers a menu featuring shared bites like tempura vegetables and comforting dishes such as shrimp bread stew and ray with turmeric sauce. This unique restaurant combines culinary excellence with social impact.
International, Mediterranean, $$ – $$$
Cantinho do Avillez: A Contemporary Culinary Gem
Mini Bar: Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
O Prego da Peixaria: Casual Delights
As Ladras Bistro: Globally Inspired Dining
Once a bike shop, As Ladras Bistro is now a cozy 45-square-meter restaurant near Lisbon’s Feira da Ladra. Created by Maria João Silva and Filipa Henriques, this bistro uses fresh, local ingredients to craft globally inspired dishes from Asia to South America. With a weekly changing menu, vegetarian options, and unique, non-commercial Portuguese wines, As Ladras offers a distinct dining experience.
Mediterranean, European, $$ – $$$
