This is our best tips, tricks, and hacks when travelling to Lisbon and looking for the best food and drinks, from the crispiest Portuguese chicken with peri peri sauce, amazing seafood rice, Ginjinha liqueur, grilled sardines, oysters, sashimi, and delicious natural wines.
Lisbon. The city of sunshine, stunning views, and some seriously good food. Whether you’re after fresh seafood, the best Portuguese chicken, or a glass of wine with a killer sunset, Lisbon has you covered. Let’s dive into some of the city’s top spots where the food is as memorable as the views.
📍Uma Restaurante
If you’re into seafood, Uma Restaurante is a must. This no-fuss spot serves up an incredible seafood pot that’s packed with flavour. The line might look daunting, but don’t worry—it moves fast, and once you’ve got a steaming pot of shellfish in front of you, you’ll realise it was worth every second of the wait.
📍Bonjardim
For something quintessentially Portuguese, head to Bonjardim. This spot is all about the *frango*—Portuguese-style roasted chicken that’s juicy, crispy, and a little bit addictive. There’s usually a bit of a line here too, but like Uma, it moves quickly. Plus, the prices are as satisfying as the food. You’ll leave full and happy without burning a hole in your pocket.
📍Ginjinha Sem Rival
Looking for a little liquid magic? Stop by Ginjinha Sem Rival for a taste of Lisbon’s famous cherry liqueur. This tiny spot serves up little shots of sweet, tangy ginjinha that’ll warm you from the inside out. It’s a quintessential Lisbon experience—one you’ll probably find yourself repeating once or twice (or three times) during your trip.
📍Time Out Market
Yes, the Time Out Market is popular with tourists, but don’t let that put you off. This place is packed with fantastic food options, from traditional Portuguese bites to more modern flavours. Pro tip: while the market itself is buzzing, the restaurants around the outside edges are where you’ll want to sit down and relax with your meal. The atmosphere is a little calmer, and the food is just as good—if not better.
📍Pastéis de Belém
No trip to Lisbon is complete without tasting the city’s iconic pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts), and Pastéis de Belém is the place to do it. This is where the famous tarts originated, and you can taste the history in every bite. Skip the long takeaway line and head inside. The seating area to the right is a hidden gem, where you can enjoy your pastry fresh out of the oven, without the wait.
📍Cervejaria Ramiro
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ve probably already heard of Cervejaria Ramiro. It’s a favourite of Anthony Bourdain, and for good reason. The seafood here is epic—think spider crab, king prawns, and more, all cooked to perfection. It’s definitely worth booking ahead to snag a table at this spot because it’s always packed. But once you’ve got a plate of seafood in front of you, you’ll know exactly why Bourdain loved it.
📍Tropical da Graça
For a truly local experience, head up the hill to Tropical da Graça. This little spot serves up some of the best Portuguese chicken in the city. It’s a bit of a trek, but the reward is next-level good. Grab your chicken to go and head to the nearby park to enjoy it with a view. It’s cheap, authentic, and absolutely delicious—everything you want from a hidden gem.
📍Oysters & Margaritas
For something a little different, check out Oysters & Margaritas. As the name suggests, this place specialises in small seafood plates and killer cocktails. Pair your oysters with a margarita or a glass of natural wine, and settle in for a low-key but delicious meal. The vibe here is laid-back, and the food is seriously fresh.
📍Magnolia
Just down the road from Oysters & Margaritas, Magnolia is another spot you shouldn’t miss. This cosy wine bar has a fantastic selection of wines (the orange wine is particularly good) and a menu of yum food to match. It’s the perfect place to wind down after a day of exploring, with a glass of something special in hand.
📍Rooftop Carpark Bar
For the ultimate sunset spot, head to Lisbon’s Rooftop Carpark Bar. Perched on top of a carpark with a panoramic view of the city, this place is a hidden gem that locals love. Grab a drink, find a spot, and watch the sun sink over the Lisbon skyline. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret, with the perfect blend of relaxed atmosphere and stunning views.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Lisbon’s food scene will keep you coming back for more. With its mix of traditional and modern, laid-back and lively, this city knows how to do food right. Bon appétit!
