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Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly and coastal capital city. It’s known for its unique historical center, stunning architecture, colorful azulejos (ceramic tiles), cozy neighborhoods with FANTASTIC food! I had a lot of fun writing about the best hotels in Lisbon, so I thought I’d do the same for the best restaurants in the city. Here is my list of 9 of the best restaurants in Lisbon and why you should add them to your dining strategy.
Augusto Lisboa:
This outstanding brunch eatery has two locations; one in Alfama and the other in the district of Belém. Their motto is “Better food, Better Mood”. Popular menu items include savory toasts made with homemade sourdough bread, topped with various ingredients such as scrambled eggs, and Portuguese ham. For a lighter bite maybe try one of their famous bowls. Choose from fresh salad ingredients, or maybe you would prefer fruit with granola and yogurt? Don’t forget to try one of their specialty coffee drinks or cocktails. Lastly, their Overnight French Toast is more of dessert. Caramelized sourdough bread is topped with layers of white chocolate cream, Porto poached pear, and ice cream.
Time Out Market:
A modern food court located in the Mercado da Ribeira at Cais do Sodré in Lisbon. This concept became a reality in 2014 and is comprised of 26 restaurants, 8 bars and a high-end music venue. Many of the food vendors are owned by some of Portugal’s most renowned chefs. Not only can you dine in while catching a live music performance, but you can also take fresh produce, meat, seafood, and even flowers to go! In addition, depending on your length of stay you can even sign up for one of their cooking workshops.
Taberna Sal Grosso:
One of the most popular foodie spots in the Alfama district attracting locals as well as tourists in the know. This small tavern is run by a group of younger chefs who joined forces after the pandemic subsided a bit in 2021. They maintain a menu with popular dishes such as camarão à alhinho (shrimp with garlic), and introduce new ones on a seasonal basis. The friendly staff make this a fun and laid-back atmosphere for enjoying flavorful food and wine.
BouBou’s:
This family-run fine dining restaurant is located in Lisbon’s Principe Real neighborhood. The Bourrat family share a passion for food and hospitality. Winner of the 2022 Top Chef tv show in France, Louise Bourrat heads up the kitchen and loves to create unique cuisine using fresh local ingredients. The open kitchen concept allows guests to watch the staff in action. Open only for dinner, you can choose from two tasting menus one that is geared toward vegetarians and the other for omnivores.
Casa Reîa:
A beach house along the Portuguese coast of Caparica. The owners strive to bring their guests together through nourishing food, uplifting live music and a connection to nature. Guests dine in a bohemian style atmosphere while soaking up the coastal ambiance. If you love seafood like I do, then maybe try an order of the Fire Roasted Seafood Rice paired with a refreshing Caipirinha cocktail. After dinner try their White Chocolate Mousse with matcha, almonds, and smoked fig; or perhaps take a stroll along the beach with a glass of port.
Prado:
This farm to table style restaurant is housed in a former fish cannery and takes pride in delivering artful culinary creations sourced directly from regional vendors. Their aphorism is “if it’s not in season it’s not on our table”. The extensive wine list is comprised of natural organic selections that are made in small batches that pair nicely with their eclectic entrees. Chef Galapito’s favorite ingredient is pork fat and he incorporates this into many of the menu offerings.
Alma:
Located in the Chiado district of Lisbon, this fine dining restaurant is a must for those who have an adventurous palate. Earning two Michelin stars and a spot on the list of the World’s 50 best restaurants, the open concept dining room is in a warehouse which used to store books for one of the oldest bookstores. Guests can relax and socialize while taking in the hustle and bustle of culinary team led by Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa. You can choose options from an ala carte menu or take part in one of the two tasting menus.
Café de São Bento:
A classic eatery has been open since 1982, and is known for its famous steak and personalized service. For those who prefer a quaint old school vibe this is a perfect choice for lunch, dinner or late-night snacks. The atmosphere is warm and cozy with dark wood tones, rich fabric and low lighting. They keep the menu simple with a few “entradas” appetizers), salads and desserts. The star of the show is “steak à marrare” (sirloin filets) which are grilled to perfection in garlic, wine and bay leaf, then topped with a creamy pepper sauce, and served with homemade fried potatoes.
Pastéis de Belém:
Lisbon has many wonderful sweetshops, but Pastéis de Belém is probably the most famous and one of the oldest Portuguese bakeries in the country. Attached to what was an old sugar refinery the baking of these famous treats began in 1837. The recipe has remained unchanged and secretive to this day. In fact, the name of the bakery and dessert are copyrighted, so although similar pastries are found across the region, they are generically known as Pastéis de Nata. The shells are lovingly made by hand, filled with vanilla and cinnamon egg custard, then baked until the pastry is a crispy golden brown, the finishing touch is a light dusting of cinnamon sugar. Other items such as savory breads, nut rolls, assorted cookies and special holiday cakes can be found in their display cases.
There are so many restaurants in Lisbon that I could have featured, but these are just a few of my favorites. Many of the above suggestions are very popular, so be sure to check out their current hours and book reservations in advance.
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