Portugal’s dining scene just keeps getting better and better. With a plethora of great restaurants, top-quality seafood and ingredients, and a wide variety of flavors to choose from, you will not be disappointed. Whether snacking on a custard tart or enjoying the rich cozido à Portuguesa, your culinary experience will be unforgettable.
Suckling Pig at Belcanto
If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, don’t miss Belcanto, one of the most highly-acclaimed upscale eateries in Lisbon. Winner of two Michelin stars, Belcanto has gained its reputation thanks to chef José Avillez, whose creativity and dedication to his craft continue to inspire. Everything on his menus are immaculately prepared and presented, but try the Suckling Pig Revisited for his take on a Portuguese favorite.
Pastéis de Belém
Pastel de natas are eggy custard tarts that locals will consume pretty much any time of day. They’re a Portuguese staple, so you can’t visit Lisbon without eating your fair share. It can be difficult to determine where to buy them, however, given their prominence. Most locals would suggest Pastéis de Belém, an influential pastry shop opened in 1837. Their tarts are special, and well worth the inevitable waiting in line.
Porto Tónico, All Over the Place
Porto tónico is a Portuguese alternative to the gin and tonic. This concoction is essentially white port poured over ice and topped with tonic water. Depending on where you get it you may get one topped with lemon, orange peel, or mint, but this makes for an incredibly refreshing drink regardless of what tops it.
Picadinho de carapau at Taberna da Rua das Flores
Taberna da Rua das Flores may be a small 20-seater, but it whips up big flavors. A highly-respected establishment in the Chiado neighborhood, its menu consists of classic Portuguese fare as well as creative new dishes crafted by chef and owner André Magalhães. This is a great place to try picadinho de carapau, Atlantic mackerel tartar. The fish is marinated in ginger, celery, green apple, red onions, and lemon, so expect an explosion of flavor.
Polvo a lagareiro at Ponte Velha
The Portuguese love octopus, and they also love olive oil. So it makes sense that they’d make a dish combining the two. Polvo a lagareiro is octopus tentacles roasted in olive oil, with garlic and salt added. This dish is incredibly flavorful, and the meat very tender. If you’re trying octopus for the first time, this is a great way to do it. You can find this dish all over Lisbon, but Ponte Velha makes one of the best, and at a reasonable price.
Bacalhau at Peixaria da Esquina
Seafood is an important part of Portuguese cuisine, and bacalhau (cod) is one of the most prominent choices. You can order bacalhau at many different restaurants, but Peixaria da Esquina is worth noting. The restaurant is dedicated to fish and seafood, and you can order your dish grilled, fried, cured, marinated, or even mixed in a bread stew or rice.
Pretty Much Anything at Any Kiosk
Kiosks are a classic element of Lisbon culture. Don’t think of them as poor-quality—they’re often a great place to hang out and get a decent snack or drink. From sandwiches and caipirinha to beer and fruit juice, kiosks provide a variety of tasty options and a nice spot to relax. They’re classic elements of Portuguese life, so at least visit a few of them!
Clams and Barnacles at Cervejaria Ramiro
Ramiro is a fixture in the Lisbon dining scene, loved by tourists and locals alike. This restaurant, the popularity of which was aided by Anthony Bourdain’s visit on No Reservations, specializes in seafood. It’s a particularly great place to try percebes, or goose barnacles, and clams. Try the ameijoas à bulhão pato, clams sautéed in olive oil and garlic then topped with cilantro leaves. Clams in particular are very popular in Portugal, and you can always trust Ramiro to prepare them perfectly.
Petiscos at Tasca Da Esquina
The world is full of passionate tapas-lovers, and rightfully so. Portuguese tapas are called petiscos, and will not disappoint. You can find petiscos all over the place, but Tasca Da Esquina goes above and beyond. Portuguese celebrity chef Vítor Sobral joins with chef Hugo Nascimento to craft exquisite dishes you won’t want to miss, from preserved mackerel fillets to octopus salad.
Cozido à Portuguesa at O Nobre
Cozido à Portuguesa is a Portuguese classic traditionally served for Sunday lunch. It’s a rich, meaty stew where sausages are joined by lots of potatoes and vegetables, and the final product is hearty and incredibly flavorful. It may not look pretty, but it makes for a great meal. Try it at O Nobre, where they serve it buffet-style!
Contact Gavel International to learn more about our travel incentive programs to destinations like Lisbon, Portugal.
- Best Food in Cartagena, Colombia - February 18, 2020
- Relish the Most Delicious Eats in Buenos Aires, Argentina - February 11, 2020
- Revel in the Global Infusion of Cape Town Cuisine - February 6, 2020
