Where to Eat in Lisbon: Must-Try Local Spots & Hidden Gems

Lisbon’s food scene is a tapestry of history, passion, and bold flavours. From iconic pastéis de nata to smoky sardines grilled in the Alfama, Portugal’s capital is a treasure trove of culinary delights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning foodie, this guide unveils the best local restaurants, hidden gems, and street eats worth adding to your itinerary in 2025.

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1. Time Out Market Lisboa – All-in-One Culinary Hub

• Location: Mercado da Ribeira, Cais do Sodré
• Why go: A curated food hall featuring Lisbon’s best chefs and regional cuisine under one roof.
• What to try: Henrique Sá Pessoa’s pork belly, Manteigaria’s pastéis de nata
• Website: timeoutmarket.com

2. Cervejaria Ramiro – Lisbon’s Legendary Seafood Spot

• Location: Avenida Almirante Reis, Intendente
• Why go: Authentic seafood dining since 1956. A must for shellfish lovers.
• What to try: Garlic clams, scarlet shrimp, buttery lobster
• Tip: No reservations – go early or expect a queue.
• Check out the TripAdvisor Reviews for yourself!

3. Zé da Mouraria – Rustic Local Flavours

• Location: Mouraria
• Why go: Hidden in a quiet backstreet, this tavern-style spot serves giant portions and true Lisbon soul food.
• What to try: Baked cod with chickpeas, slow-cooked beef stew

4. Tasca do Chico – Fado and Petiscos

• Location: Bairro Alto
• Why go: Experience traditional Fado music with local tapas in a cosy bar setting.
• What to try: Chouriço assado (flame-grilled sausage), octopus salad
• Check it out: Reviews & Photos

5. O Frade – Michelin-Awarded Alentejo Cuisine

• Location: Belém
• Why go: A small, counter-style restaurant with refined Alentejo-inspired dishes.
• What to try: Black pork secretos, local wines
• Check out the Michelin Website

6. Ponto Final – Riverside Dining with a View

• Location: Almada (across the river)
• Why go: Dine with views of the 25 de Abril Bridge and Lisbon’s skyline.
• What to try: Grilled dorado, tomato rice
• Tip: Take the ferry from Cais do Sodré for an adventure.

7. Boa-Bao – Pan-Asian Flair in the Heart of Lisbon

• Location: Chiado – see Boa-Bao’s Website for more!
• Why go: Vibrant street-style Asian dishes in an Insta-worthy space.
• What to try: Thai curry, bao buns, craft cocktails
• TripAdvisor: Reviews & Photos on TripAdvisor

8. A Cevicheria – Peruvian-Portuguese Fusion

• Location: Príncipe Real
• Why go: Known for its giant octopus sculpture and flavour-packed ceviche.
• What to try: Sea bass ceviche, pisco sour
• Website: acevicheria.pt

9. Toma Lá Dá Cá – Budget-Friendly Taverna

• Location: Baixa
• Why go: No-frills, budget-friendly, hearty Portuguese classics.
• What to try: Bacalhau à Brás, grilled sardines
• TripAdvisor: Reviews & Photos

10. Pastéis de Belém – The Original Custard Tart

• Location: Belém
• Why go: Open since 1837, this is the birthplace of Portugal’s most famous dessert.
• What to try: Warm pastéis de nata with cinnamon and icing sugar
• Website: pasteisdebelem.pt

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Local Food Tips

• Reservations: Essential for high-end or popular local spots.
• Meal times: Lunch 12:30–2:30 pm, Dinner 8:00–10:30 pm.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Many traditional dishes are meat or fish based – ask for “prato vegetariano.”

Handy Phrases

• “Uma mesa para dois, por favor” – A table for two, please.
• “Tem opções vegetarianas?” – Do you have vegetarian options?
• “A conta, por favor” – The bill, please.

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