What to Eat in Lisbon: Traditional Dishes and Culinary Experiences
Lisbon is a true paradise for food lovers. The city blends tradition and innovation, offering dishes that reflect Portugal’s rich culture and its deep connection to the sea. From seafood delicacies to sweet treats, Lisbon has something for every palate. In this article, we’ll explore the most iconic dishes of the Portuguese capital, their origins, and where to try them.
1. Bacalhau: The King of Portuguese Cuisine
Codfish (bacalhau) is one of the most iconic ingredients in Portuguese cuisine. It is said that there are over 365 ways to prepare it—one for each day of the year! Some of the most popular versions in Lisbon include:
Bacalhau à Brás
A classic dish made with shredded cod, thinly fried potatoes, scrambled eggs, and seasoned with garlic, parsley, and black olives. It is creamy and flavorful, making it an excellent choice for those trying codfish for the first time.
📍 Where to eat: A Casa do Bacalhau (Rua do Grilo, 54)
Bacalhau com Natas
This version features shredded cod mixed with a creamy sauce made of cream and potatoes, baked until golden brown. The smooth texture and rich flavor make this one of the most beloved cod dishes.
📍 Where to eat: Laurentina – O Rei do Bacalhau (Av. Conde Valbom, 71A)
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LISBON CITY TOURBacalhau à Lagareiro
In this preparation, cod is roasted in the oven and served with batatas ao murro (crushed potatoes), generously drizzled with olive oil and garlic. The high-quality Portuguese olive oil makes this dish extraordinary.
📍 Where to eat: Solar dos Presuntos (Rua das Portas de Santo Antão, 150)
2. Grilled Sardines: The Queen of Lisbon’s Festivities
If you visit Lisbon in June during the Festas de Santo António, you will see the streets filled with grills roasting sardines. Typically served on a slice of rustic bread or with potatoes and salad, grilled sardines are a true symbol of Lisbon.
📍 Where to eat: O Pitéu da Graça (Largo da Graça, 95)
3. Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (Clams in Garlic and Wine Sauce)
This seafood dish is a tribute to the flavors of the Atlantic. The clams are cooked in olive oil, garlic, coriander, and white wine, creating a fragrant and delicious sauce. Be sure to have some bread to soak up the incredible broth!
📍 Where to eat: Cervejaria Ramiro (Av. Almirante Reis, 1)
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4. Arroz de Marisco (Portuguese Seafood Rice)
This dish is an explosion of seafood flavors. Made with shrimp, langoustines, mussels, and clams, the rice is cooked in a rich, slightly spicy broth. It has a risotto-like consistency, making it one of the most comforting Portuguese meals.
📍 Where to eat: Marisqueira Uma (Rua dos Sapateiros, 177)
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5. Polvo à Lagareiro (Roasted Octopus with Olive Oil and Potatoes)
Similar to Bacalhau à Lagareiro, this dish features octopus roasted in the oven with garlic and olive oil, served with crushed potatoes. The octopus is incredibly tender, making it one of Lisbon’s most appreciated specialties.
📍 Where to eat: D’Bacalhau (Parque das Nações)
6. Bifana & Prego: Traditional Portuguese Sandwiches
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty bite, Lisbon offers two iconic sandwiches:
Bifana
A sandwich made with thin slices of marinated and fried pork, usually served with mustard or a spicy sauce. Simple, affordable, and delicious!
📍 Where to eat: O Trevo (Praça Luís de Camões)
Prego
The beef version, often served with cheese and ham. It pairs perfectly with a cold beer.
📍 Where to eat: Cervejaria Ramiro
7. Cozido à Portuguesa (Portuguese Boiled Dinner)
A hearty and traditional dish, Cozido à Portuguesa is a stew made with a variety of meats (pork, beef, chicken), sausages (chouriço, morcela), and boiled vegetables. It is a dish best enjoyed on a cooler day.
📍 Where to eat: Solar dos Presuntos
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8. Açorda à Alentejana (Portuguese Bread and Garlic Soup)
Originally from the Alentejo region, açorda is a thick bread soup made with garlic, coriander, and either seafood or meat broth, often topped with a poached egg.
📍 Where to eat: Cervejaria Trindade (Rua Nova da Trindade, 20)
9. Pastel de Nata: Portugal’s Most Famous Pastry
The pastel de nata needs no introduction. With its flaky crust and creamy custard filling, this pastry wins over anyone who tries it.
📍 Where to eat:
Pastéis de Belém (Rua de Belém, 84-92) – The original recipe!
Manteigaria (Rua do Loreto, 2) – One of the best versions in Lisbon.
10. Ovos Moles & Other Portuguese Conventual Sweets
Portuguese conventual sweets are rich in egg yolks and sugar. In Lisbon, try:
Ovos Moles (originally from Aveiro, but popular in Lisbon)
Pão de Ló (a soft and airy sponge cake)
Toucinho do Céu (an almond and egg-based dessert)
📍 Where to eat: Confeitaria Nacional (Praça da Figueira, 18)
11. Ginjinha: Lisbon’s Traditional Cherry Liqueur
Nothing is more Lisbon-like than sipping a shot of ginjinha (sour cherry liqueur) at one of the city’s historic bars.
📍 Where to drink:
A Ginjinha Espinheira (Largo São Domingos, 8)
Ginjinha Sem Rival (Rua das Portas de Santo Antão, 7)
12. Cheese & Cured Meats: Authentic Portuguese Flavors
Portugal has a rich tradition of cheeses and cured meats. Some must-tries include:
Queijo da Serra da Estrela – A soft and intense cheese.
Chouriço Assado – Flamed chorizo sausage.
📍 Where to eat: O Velho Eurico (Largo São Cristóvão, 3)
Conclusion
Lisbon’s cuisine is a reflection of Portugal’s traditions and cultural richness. Whether you’re trying Bacalhau à Brás, grilled sardines during the popular festivals, or indulging in a pastel de nata in Belém, each dish tells a story and offers an unforgettable experience.
Now that you know the must-try dishes, make sure to add them to your food list for your next visit to Lisbon!