Best Restaurants in Lisbon
Discover the Best Restaurants in Lisbon: Your Ultimate Culinary Guide
Are you a food enthusiast looking to explore the best restaurants in Lisbon? From traditional Portuguese dishes to modern fusion cuisine, Lisbon offers a vibrant food scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re seeking the best piri piri chicken in Lisbon, vegetarian delights, or top-notch steakhouses, this guide will lead you through the city’s culinary treasures.
Why Lisbon?
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and, of course, its exceptional food. The city’s culinary landscape is a reflection of its diverse cultural influences, offering everything from local specialties to international gourmet experiences.
The Journey Begins: Finding the Best Restaurants in Lisbon
- Solar dos Presuntos: Known for its traditional Portuguese dishes, Solar dos Presuntos is a must-visit. With its three floors and five rooms, it offers a cozy yet elegant dining experience. Don’t miss their grilled fish and meat paired with an exquisite selection of wines.
- Address: R. das Portas de Santo Antão 150
- A Valenciana: For the best piri piri chicken in Lisbon, A Valenciana is the place to be. Their perfectly cooked chicken is moist on the inside with a crispy, flavorful skin.
- Address: Rua Marquês de Fronteira 157
- Maria Peixeira: Close to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, this restaurant is perfect for those looking to enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine in a serene environment.
- Address: Av. Miguel Bombarda 133B, 1050-066 Lisboa
- Cais da Preguiça: This charming spot boasts a delightful terrace where you can enjoy fresh fish and traditional dishes while soaking in the coastal breeze.
- Address: R. dos Bacalhoeiros 4C, 1100-070 Lisboa
Exploring Lisbon’s Culinary Landscape
Traditional and Modern Flavors
- Bono Lisboa: Combining tradition with innovation, Bono Lisboa uses fire and seasonal elements to create a symphony of flavors. The open-plan kitchen adds transparency and excitement to your dining experience.
- Address: Calçada Ferragial 9, Misericórdia – Lisboa
- Anfíbio – Restaurant & Bar: Nestled between land and river, Anfíbio features an architectural marvel by Carrilho da Graça. Enjoy a culinary journey with dishes crafted by Chef Miguel Rocha Vieira.
- Address: Campo das Cebolas, 1100-279 Lisboa
- Martinho da Arcada: Open since 1782, this is the oldest café in Lisbon, frequented by famous poets and offering a nostalgic ambiance with its historic charm.
- Address: Praça do Comércio 3
For the Vegetarian Palate
- The Green Affair – Vegetarian Restaurant: Located on Av. Duque de Ávila, this restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes that are both delicious and innovative.
- Address: Av. Duque de Ávila 30 A
- Oasis Vegetarian Restaurant: Behind the Museum Calouste Gulbenkian, Oasis offers a tranquil environment to enjoy a wide range of vegetarian options.
- Address: R. Marquês Sá da Bandeira 76
Sweet Delights and Cafés
- Pastelaria Versailles: Founded in 1922, this historic pastry shop is known for its exquisite French pastries and Louis XIV-style decor.
- Address: Av. da República 15 A, 1050-185 Lisboa
- Manteigaria: Famous for its pastel de nata, this is the go-to spot in Chiado for a sweet treat.
- Address: Rua do Loreto 2
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
- O Policia: A hidden gem behind the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes.
- Address: R. Marquês Sá da Bandeira 112
- Laurentina, O Rei do Bacalhau: Known as the king of bacalhau (codfish), this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Address: Av. Conde Valbom 71
Michelin-Starred Experiences
For those seeking a luxurious dining experience, Lisbon offers several Michelin-starred restaurants:
- Eleven (Lisboa, chef Joachim Koerper)
- Feitoria (Lisboa, chef João Rodrigues)
- Loco (Lisboa, chef Alexandre Silva)
- Alma (Lisboa, chef Henrique Sá Pessoa)
- Belcanto (Lisboa, chef José Avillez)
- Eneko Lisboa (Lisboa, chefs Eneko Atxa and Lucas Bernardes)
- Epur (Lisboa, chef Vincent Farges)
- Fifty Seconds by Martín Berasategui (Lisboa, chef Filipe Carvalho)
- Fortaleza do Guincho (Cascais, chef Gil Fernandes)
- LAB by Sergi Arola (Sintra, chef Sergi Arola and Vlademir Veiga)
- Midori (Sintra, chef Pedro Almeida)
Fado and Food: A Cultural Experience
No visit to Lisbon is complete without experiencing Fado, the soulful music genre classified as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Combine this cultural experience with a meal at one of the city’s Fado houses:
- Sr Vinho
- Clube do Fado
- O Faia (Bairro Alto)
- Café Luso
For an immersive experience, visit the Fado Museum in Alfama or the Casa Museu Amalia Rodrigues, dedicated to the legendary Fado singer Amalia Rodrigues.
Wine and Dine: Where to Buy Wine in Lisbon
Garrafeira Nacional is Lisbon’s most iconic Portuguese wine retailer. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through their extensive portfolio, including impressive selections of Port and Madeira wines.
Practical Tips: Tipping in Lisbon
Wondering about tipping etiquette in Lisbon? It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if the service is good. In cafés and casual eateries, rounding up the bill is often appreciated.
Savor the Best of Lisbon’s Culinary Scene
Lisbon’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Portuguese fare, vegetarian delights, or a Michelin-starred experience, Lisbon’s restaurants promise an unforgettable dining journey. From hidden gems to famous eateries, this guide has covered the best restaurants in Lisbon to ensure your culinary adventure is a resounding success. Bom Apetite!