Lisbon is a city of soulful flavors and timeless traditions. From fresh Atlantic seafood to slow-cooked stews and custard tarts fresh out of the oven, the capital of Portugal offers an unforgettable culinary journey for those who seek genuine, local experiences.
Whether you’re strolling through the narrow alleys of Alfama or gazing over the Tagus River in Belém, these 15 restaurants serve the very best of Portuguese cuisine—authentic, heartwarming, and deliciously memorable.
1. A Casa do Bacalhau
A Lisbon classic specializing in Portugal’s most beloved fish: cod. “The House of Cod” offers more than 20 ways to enjoy bacalhau, from traditional Bacalhau à Brás to oven-baked specialties.
📍 Alfama
🐟 Must-try: Bacalhau com Natas
Elegant rustic charm | Historic building
2. Zé da Mouraria
A hidden gem popular among locals, this humble taberna in Mouraria is famed for its generous portions and soulful dishes like grilled fish and cozido à portuguesa (Portuguese stew).
📍 Mouraria
🍲 Must-try: Bife à Zé da Mouraria
Lively and authentic | Local crowd favorite
3. O Velho Eurico
Trendy yet traditional, this revamped tasca offers a creative take on old-school Lisbon comfort food. Small plates, casual vibes, and bold Portuguese flavors.
📍 Alfama
🥘 Must-try: Peixinhos da horta
Fun, energetic atmosphere | Young local chefs
4. Adega da Tia Matilde
A family-run restaurant known for its long history and traditional recipes. A favorite of Lisbon’s elite, this cozy spot offers refined takes on Portuguese classics.
📍 Campo Pequeno
🐖 Must-try: Leitão Assado (roast suckling pig)
Charming and traditional | Excellent wine list
5. Solar dos Presuntos
One of Lisbon’s culinary institutions, serving Minho-style Portuguese dishes in an upscale setting. Regularly frequented by celebrities and politicians.
📍 Avenida da Liberdade
🦐 Must-try: Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice)
Elegant, iconic | Seafood excellence
6. Cervejaria Ramiro
A no-frills seafood haven, Ramiro is a Lisbon legend. Expect incredibly fresh shellfish, quick service, and a bustling atmosphere.
📍 Intendente
🦞 Must-try: Grilled tiger prawns & garlic clams
Casual, always buzzing | Late-night spot
7. Tasca da Esquina
Chef Vítor Sobral brings creativity to the Portuguese table in this elegant yet relaxed restaurant. Traditional ingredients, modern techniques.
📍 Campo de Ourique
🥗 Must-try: Octopus salad & Iberian pork
Contemporary Portuguese | Excellent for lunch
8. Alma Lusa
A warm and intimate space with a true neighborhood feel. Alma Lusa offers authentic dishes that feel like they came straight from a grandmother’s kitchen.
📍 São Bento
🐟 Must-try: Grilled sardines (in season)
Homey, inviting | Great for casual dining
9. Taberna da Rua das Flores
A charming and ultra-popular tavern near Chiado, serving daily specials inspired by traditional Portuguese fare, all on handwritten menus.
📍 Rua das Flores
🍷 Must-try: Chouriço assado with red wine
Cozy and romantic | Limited seating – arrive early
10. Cantinho do Avillez
Chef José Avillez’s most approachable restaurant—a chic take on a Lisbon bistro offering comforting Portuguese classics with a creative twist.
📍 Chiado
🍖 Must-try: Slow-cooked pork cheeks
Sophisticated yet relaxed | Reservations recommended
11. Time Out Market – Traditional Kiosks
Although a food hall, Time Out’s curated selection includes standout kiosks featuring iconic Lisbon dishes. A great intro for first-timers.
📍 Cais do Sodré
🍽️ Must-try: Prego no pão from Miguel Castro e Silva
Trendy and diverse | Ideal for a casual gourmet lunch
12. Páteo 13
An open-air restaurant in Alfama known for grilled fish and relaxed vibes. It’s like a summer afternoon in a Portuguese fishing village.
📍 Alfama
🐟 Must-try: Grilled mackerel or sardines
Simple, local, sun-soaked experience
13. O Frade
A Michelin Bib Gourmand spot bringing the cuisine of Alentejo to Lisbon. This counter-style eatery offers an immersive and intimate dining experience.
📍 Belém
🥚 Must-try: Migas and Alentejano-style pork
Chic but grounded | Excellent wine pairings
14. A Licorista O Bacalhoeiro
One of the best old-school eateries in downtown Lisbon, serving hearty portions of cod dishes and traditional sides in a laid-back setting.
📍 Baixa
🍛 Must-try: Bacalhau à Minhota
Classic, no-fuss Portuguese food
15. Laurentina – O Rei do Bacalhau
“The King of Cod” lives up to its name. This restaurant is dedicated to codfish in all its glorious forms, cooked to perfection every time.
📍 Praça de Espanha
🐟 Must-try: Bacalhau à Laurentina
Elegant interiors | Seafood specialty house
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