Discovering the Flavors of Lisbon: 16 Top Restaurants to Try

Lisbon, Portugal’s charming capital city, has long been a haven for food enthusiasts. From traditional bacalhau à brás to modern fusion cuisine, the city’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its architecture. As a seasoned foodie, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring Lisbon’s top restaurants, and in this post, I’ll share my expert recommendations with you.

Traditional Favorites

When visiting Lisbon, it’s essential to try some of the local specialties that have been passed down through generations. Here are three traditional restaurants that showcase the city’s rich culinary heritage:

1. Cantinho do Avillez

Address: Rua de São Pedro de Alcântara, 23

Phone: +351 213 424 124

Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese

Reservations: Highly recommended

Chef José Avillez’s restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Lisbon cuisine. The menu features classic dishes like cataplana de peixe (fish stew) and frango grelhado (grilled chicken). Be sure to try their famous arroz de pato (duck rice).

2. Casa do Leão

Address: Rua do Leão, 31

Phone: +351 213 424 111

Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese

Reservations: Recommended

This cozy restaurant has been a Lisbon institution for over 20 years, serving up hearty portions of traditional cuisine. Try their signature bacalhau à brás (cod with potatoes and onions) or feijoada (bean stew).

3. Solar do Castelo

Address: Rua da Escola Politécnica, 32

Phone: +351 213 424 333

Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese

Reservations: Recommended

Located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic center, Solar do Castelo offers stunning views of the city while serving up classic dishes like caldo verde (green broth) and carne de porco à alentejana (pork with clams).

Modern Twists on Tradition

While traditional cuisine is a must-try in Lisbon, the city’s modern restaurants offer innovative twists on classic dishes. Here are three cutting-edge eateries that showcase the creativity of Lisbon’s culinary scene:

1. The Yeatman

Address: Rua do Choupana, 3000-544

Phone: +351 213 420 600

Cuisine: Modern Portuguese

Reservations: Essential

This Michelin-starred restaurant is a true gem in Lisbon’s culinary landscape. Chef João Rodrigues’ menu features dishes like tortellini de peixe (fish tortellini) and langostinos com salmorejo (lobster with romesco sauce).

2. Belcanto

Address: Rua dos Bacalhoeiros, 3

Phone: +351 213 421 155

Cuisine: Modern Portuguese

Reservations: Highly recommended

Located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic center, Belcanto offers an unforgettable dining experience. Chef José Avillez’ menu features dishes like tournedos de boi (beef tenderloin) and arroz de linguado (linguine rice).

3. Eleven

Address: Rua do Corpo Santo, 57

Phone: +351 213 424 777

Cuisine: Modern Portuguese

Reservations: Recommended

This modern restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its à la carte menu and extensive wine list. Try their signature tournedos de cabrito (goat tenderloin) or arroz de frango (chicken rice).

Seafood Lovers’ Paradise

Lisbon’s coastal location ensures an abundance of fresh seafood, making it a paradise for fish enthusiasts. Here are three top restaurants that showcase the city’s best seafood:

1. Casa do Leão

Address: Rua do Leão, 31

Phone: +351 213 424 111

Cuisine: Seafood

Reservations: Recommended

This restaurant has been a Lisbon institution for over 20 years, serving up fresh seafood like caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) and arroz de linguado (linguine rice).

2. O Paparico

Address: Rua do Forno de São Miguel, 21

Phone: +351 213 424 444

Cuisine: Seafood

Reservations: Highly recommended

Located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic center, O Paparico offers an extensive seafood menu featuring dishes like tortellini de peixe (fish tortellini) and langostinos com salmorejo (lobster with romesco sauce).

3. A Barrigada

Address: Rua do Teixeira, 22

Phone: +351 213 424 888

Cuisine: Seafood

Reservations: Recommended

This cozy restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes like caldeirada de frutos do mar (seafood stew) and arroz de linguado (linguine rice).

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Portuguese cuisine often features meat, there are plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans in Lisbon. Here are three top restaurants that cater to plant-based diets:

1. The Green Kiosk

Address: Rua do Corpo Santo, 57

Phone: +351 213 424 999

Cuisine: Vegetarian

Reservations: Recommended

This modern restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes like tortellini de verduras (vegetable tortellini) and arroz de frutos secos (nut rice).

2. Vegan Lisbon

Address: Rua do Forno de São Miguel, 21

Phone: +351 213 424 222

Cuisine: Vegan

Reservations: Recommended

Located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic center, Vegan Lisbon offers a variety of plant-based dishes like tortellini de legumes (legume tortellini) and arroz de frutos secos (nut rice).

3. The Salad Bar

Address: Rua do Choupana, 3000-544

Phone: +351 213 420 777

Cuisine: Vegetarian

Reservations: Recommended

This modern salad bar offers a variety of fresh salads like salada de verduras (vegetable salad) and salada de frutos secos (nut salad).

Conclusion

Lisbon’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its architecture. From traditional bacalhau à brás to modern fusion cuisine, there’s something for every palate in this charming city. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just starting your gastronomic journey, these 16 top restaurants are sure to delight your senses.

Tips and Recommendations:

  • Be sure to try some of the local specialties like bacalhau à brás (cod with potatoes and onions) and feijoada (bean stew).
  • Don’t miss out on Lisbon’s fresh seafood – try dishes like caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) or arroz de linguado (linguine rice).
  • For a unique dining experience, head to one of the city’s many rooftop restaurants.
  • Be sure to make reservations in advance for popular restaurants like The Yeatman and Belcanto.

By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to discovering the flavors of Lisbon. Bon appétit!