How to Eat Like a Local in Lisbon
Walking through the streets of Lisbon feels like traveling back in time. Turn down any narrow road and you’re bound to find a historic church, quaint coffee shop, or statue commemorating a Portuguese explorer.
A huge part of Lisbon’s history and tradition is tied to food, and many of the restaurants serve up staples that families have been eating for generations. Honestly, it’s hard to find a bad meal in Lisbon — the food is flavorful, hearty, and made with love.
But for foodies looking for a special treat, there are some local spots, sprinkled among the historic tile-covered buildings, that manage to maintain tradition while introducing new and inventive tastes to classic cuisine.
Here are a few that you can’t miss.
Best Splurge: Eleven
Every dish is a work of art. (Photo: Eleven)
Located in Lisbon’s business district, Eleven offers a modern dining experience in a minimalist setting. The brainchild of Michelin Chef Joachim Koerper, Eleven pairs Portuguese staples like codfish, with Mediterranean inspired dishes. Diners will feel at ease in this serene environment, while gazing out over the city through large floor to ceiling windows. Try one of the tasting menus which pairs delicacies like rack of lamb or Challans Duck with wines selected by a sommelier.
Best Casual Dining: Café Lisboa
Codfish confit with potato crumble and rapini. (Photo: Café Lisboa)
There is something timeless about Café Lisboa. The decor and menu are traditional, while the crowd is a mix of locals and tourists. Chef José Avillez started the restaurant in the Chiado neighborhood, which is bursting at the seams with museums and theatres. In fact, Café Lisboa is located in the São Carlos National Theatre, the only theatre in Portugal dedicated to opera. If the weather is ideal, order the codfish confit, and people watch while dining on the outdoor terrace.
Related: The Perfect 48 Hours in Lisbon
Best for Adventurous Eaters: Mini Bar
Every bite is a surprise at Mini Bar. (Photo: Mini Bar)
If your taste buds are experiment-friendly, then a visit to Mini Bar is just what the chef ordered —Chef José Avillez, that is. First of all, this restaurant is painfully cool, with signature cocktails that you eat instead of drink, and a DJ spinning every weekend. When it comes to the menu, you can create your own, or opt for one of the tasting menus featuring five acts of creative bites. With options like a beef tartar cone with mustard emulsion, dining at Mini Bar is sure to be a meal you won’t soon forget.
Best View: Veranda de Lisboa in Hotel Mundial
If you like your food with a view, nothing beats Veranda de Lisboa. (Photo: Veranda de Lisboa)
The old quarter of Lisbon is breathtaking, with its narrow streets, historic churches, and bright orange rooftops. If you want to appreciate it from above, eating lunch at Veranda de Lisboa offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the city below. The menu features traditional Portuguese cuisine centered around fresh fish and grilled meat. For an even better look at the city, have a drink after dinner at the rooftop bar.
Related: Explore Alentejo — A Getaway in Portugal’s Countryside
Best Dessert: Pastéis de Belém
A plate of pastel de nata on display at Pastéis de Belém. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)
“Pastel de nata” are tiny custard tarts that are famous in Portugal, and can be found in most bakeries around the city. Many try to imitate, but no one can actually recreate the taste of original pastries that are created at the Pastéis de Belém. The line outside of this tiny bakery usually spills out onto the block —and for good reason. These sweet treats are like taking a bite of Portugal and are worth every second you spend in line. To act like a true local, don’t forget to top them with some powdered sugar!
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