Top 5 Places to Eat in Coimbra

Written by Celine Fournier, Finn Weber
01/09/2025
Beautiful view of Coimbra's historic architecture along the river under a vibrant sky.
Miguel Monte, Pexels

Coimbra offers a rich and varied dining experience, ranging from humble, traditional tascas to sophisticated fine-dining establishments, reflecting its deep cultural roots and youthful energy.

1. Zé Manel dos Ossos

Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese

This small, authentic tavern, known as a 'tasca', offers a genuine taste of Coimbra. Its walls, adorned with customer notes, create a rustic and intimate atmosphere. Visitors come for hearty, traditional Portuguese meat dishes, particularly the famous 'ossos' (pork spine bones) stewed in a peppery broth, and the robust wild boar stew. It is a cash-only establishment, often with a queue due to its popularity. Arriving early is advisable.

Price: Approximately €7-€10 per person / $8-$11 USD

Getting There: Located in a small alleyway in the Baixa (downtown) area, it is easily accessible on foot from the city's main attractions.

2. A Cozinha da Maria

Cuisine: Regional Portuguese

Nestled in downtown Coimbra, this charming restaurant delivers an authentic Portuguese dining experience with a cozy and friendly ambiance. It is celebrated for its regional specialties, most notably the exquisite 'chanfana' (goat stew), a must-try dish. Other options include delightful cod preparations and even vegetarian choices like mushroom risotto. The atmosphere evokes a traditional, bygone kitchen.

Price: Approximately €15-€25 per person / $16-$27 USD

Getting There: Found in the downtown area, this restaurant is within comfortable walking distance from most central points.

3. Refeitro da Baixa

Cuisine: Mediterranean with a Modern Portuguese Twist

Set within a beautifully restored ceramics factory dating back to 1824, Refeitro da Baixa provides a distinctive and atmospheric dining setting, making it an excellent choice for a romantic evening. The restaurant offers a refined menu of Mediterranean-inspired Portuguese dishes with a contemporary flair. Guests may even observe the ceramics-making process in a dedicated workshop area. Signature dishes include duck and various well-presented modern Portuguese creations.

Price: Approximately €30-€50 per person / $32-$54 USD

Getting There: Situated in the heart of downtown Coimbra, it is easily reached by walking.

4. Sete Restaurante

Cuisine: Modern Portuguese

Located just behind the Santa Cruz church in the Baixa district, Sete offers a sophisticated take on classic Portuguese cuisine. It emphasizes local produce, creating dishes with both familiarity and innovation. The restaurant features an extensive wine list curated by knowledgeable staff, complementing dishes such as its popular poached egg and pea starter or the flavorful lamb shank. Given its popularity among both locals and visitors, making a reservation is recommended.

Price: Approximately €25-€45 per person / $27-$49 USD

Getting There: Found in the central Baixa area, it is conveniently located for those exploring the downtown on foot.

5. Arcadas Restaurante - Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas

Cuisine: Contemporary Fine Dining

For a truly luxurious dining experience, Arcadas is Coimbra's premier fine-dining establishment, nestled within the historic Quinta das Lágrimas estate. The cuisine focuses on exquisite contemporary Portuguese dishes crafted with high-quality local ingredients, some sourced from the hotel's own organic garden. While it previously held a Michelin star, it remains a benchmark for elegant dining in the city, perfect for a celebratory occasion. The service is impeccable, matching the sophisticated ambiance.

Price: Approximately €80+ per person / $87+ USD (for tasting menus or a la carte)

Getting There: Located slightly outside the immediate city center, a short taxi ride of approximately €5-€10 is recommended to reach the Quinta das Lágrimas estate.

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