Are you planning a trip to Lisbon and wondering where to find the best local food? Look no further! Lisbon’s food scene has been gaining recognition in recent years, and for good reason. From fresh seafood to innovative twists on Portuguese classics, the city offers a range of delicious and affordable options. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a flavorful lunch, or a unique cocktail experience, there are plenty of places to satisfy your cravings. Join me as I share my list of recommended spots to eat and drink like a local in Lisbon.
Breakfast and Brunch
Pasteis de Nata at Pastelaria Alfama Doce
When it comes to breakfast and brunch in Lisbon, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. One must-visit spot is Pastelaria Alfama Doce, a historic bakery located in the old district of Alfama. Here, you can indulge in one of Lisbon’s most famous sweet treats: pasteis de nata. These custard tarts are a must-try, with their flaky pastry and creamy filling. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea, and savor the traditional flavors of Portugal.
Dear Breakfast: Eggs, Pancakes, and Wi-Fi
If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast spot with comfy seats and Wi-Fi, look no further than Dear Breakfast. With three locations in central areas across the city (Santos, Chiado, and Alfama), you can easily find a spot to enjoy your morning meal. Dear Breakfast offers a variety of egg dishes, fluffy pancakes topped with indulgent ingredients like caramel, banana, pecans, or crispy bacon and mascarpone. Their menu is sure to satisfy any breakfast craving you may have.
Maria’s Food Hub: Creative Brunch Options
For a creative and satisfying brunch, head over to Maria’s Food Hub in the neighborhood of Anjos. This bright and colorful eatery is adorned with art and flooded with natural light, creating a cheerful atmosphere to start your day. Their menu features innovative dishes like Octopus Tapenade toast served with a salad or the protein-packed Shakshuka Verde with eggs, sweet potato, bell peppers, and green sauce. With a diverse menu and vibrant ambiance, Maria’s Food Hub is a brunch spot you won’t want to miss.
Specialty Coffee at Comoba Coffee
No breakfast or brunch is complete without a good cup of coffee. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, make sure to visit Comoba Coffee. Located in the digital-nomad hub of Santos, this specialty coffee shop offers a unique coffee experience. They source their organic coffee from local partners and roast it in small batches, ensuring quality and flavor. Try their white chocolate and pistachio matcha coffee for a creamy and indulgent alternative to your usual cup of joe. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a pick-me-up, Comoba Coffee is the place to go.
Lunch
Taberna Sal Grosso: Flavor-filled Small Plates
For a flavor-packed lunch experience, head to Taberna Sal Grosso in the charming neighborhood of Alfama. This popular eatery is known for its small plates, which are bursting with taste. The menu is constantly changing and is displayed on a chalkboard, adding to the rustic charm of the place. Try their shrimp with garlic, oxtail, or cod tongue with pea purée for a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist. Just be sure to make a daytime booking in advance, as dinner tables get snatched up quickly.
Ramiro: Famous Seafood Restaurant
If you’re a seafood lover, Ramiro is a must-visit restaurant in Lisbon. Established in 1950, this three-story institution has become famous for its fresh seafood dishes. From clams to scarlet shrimp and crab, Ramiro offers a wide selection of seafood delights that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Keep in mind that Ramiro tends to get crowded, especially during high season, so it’s best to make a reservation to secure your table. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in some of the best seafood Lisbon has to offer.
Aperitivo
Monkey Mash: Jungle-Themed Bar with Vibrant Cocktails
After a day of exploring Lisbon, why not unwind with a refreshing aperitivo at Monkey Mash? Located just off the Avenida da Liberdade, this unique bar will transport you to a jungle-themed paradise. The vibrant cocktails at Monkey Mash are as colorful as the decor, with a focus on agave and sugarcane concoctions. Try the Aztec Mystic, which combines chocolatey notes with tequila, tamarind rum, and pear, or opt for the In The Dark, a perfectly balanced mix of strawberry, miso tomato, black rice, and tequila. Walk-ins are welcome, but it’s recommended to make a reservation to ensure you get a spot at this popular bar.
Dinner
Tasca Baldracca: Low-ceilinged Tavern with Classic Dishes
For a cozy and authentic dining experience, make your way to Tasca Baldracca. This low-ceilinged tavern is known for its classic dishes, which are a favorite among both locals and tourists. The ever-changing menu is displayed on a blackboard, adding to the rustic charm of the place. Indulge in small-plate versions of Portuguese classics like codfish cakes and chicken, and savor the flavors that have made Portuguese cuisine so renowned.
Marlene: Waterside Dining Experience with Tasting Menus
If you’re looking for a more elevated dining experience, Marlene is the perfect choice. Helmed by one of Portugal’s top chefs, Marlene Vieira, this waterside restaurant offers a unique ambiance. The kitchen is surrounded by a counter, allowing guests to sit and watch the chefs work their magic. Marlene offers two tasting menus, featuring beautifully presented dishes like Azores amberjack fish served in a shell, prawn amuse-bouche on butterfly-shaped fig leaves, and melt-in-the-mouth Wagyu beef. With its stunning waterfront location and exceptional culinary creations, Marlene offers a dining experience like no other.
Bars
Rude: Natural Wines and Cool Vibe
Lisbon is home to many unique bars, and Rude is one that stands out from the crowd. Located in the Anjos district, Rude offers a cool and laid-back vibe, perfect for a night out with friends. This bar specializes in natural wines, boasting a selection of over 40 different varieties sourced from all over Portugal. Kick back in one of their cozy banquettes and enjoy a vinho verde or explore the other wine options available. Rude offers a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of natural wines that will satisfy any wine lover’s palate.
Pavilhão Chinês: Antique-Filled Bar in Bairro Alto
For a truly unique bar experience, step into Pavilhão Chinês in the lively Bairro Alto neighborhood. This antique-filled bar takes you on a journey back in time, with its vintage bric-a-brac and old-world charm. Spread across five rooms within an old grocery store, Pavilhão Chinês is a treasure trove of toys, porcelain busts, and sculptures. Sip on a craft beer, wine, or cocktail as you marvel at the sparkling chandeliers and cabinets filled with fascinating objects. Just be careful not to touch anything, as many of the items are delicate antiques. This bar offers a memorable and enchanting atmosphere that is sure to make your evening special.