Top 5 Places to Eat in Lisbon

Written by Celine Fournier, Finn Weber
01/09/2025
Vibrant rooftops and historic architecture in Lisbon's scenic Alfama district.
Michał Ludwiczak, Pexels

Lisbon's culinary landscape is a dynamic fusion of time-honored Portuguese dishes and contemporary gastronomy, providing an enticing range of experiences from casual, bustling taverns to refined, Michelin-starred establishments.

1. Alma

Cuisine: Innovative Portuguese

Dining at Alma is an immersive journey through modern Portuguese cuisine, with Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa artfully blending local flavors with global influences. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming, featuring subdued lighting and elegant decor. The tasting menus, focusing on either classic Portuguese or coastal inspirations, are highly recommended for an exceptional culinary experience. Expect beautifully presented dishes like monkfish and lobster rice.

Price: €€€€ (Tasting menus from €165-€195, mains around €40)

Getting There: Located in Chiado, Alma is easily accessible by walking from most central Lisbon areas. Alternatively, take the Metro (Green or Blue Line) to Baixa-Chiado station.

2. Cervejaria Ramiro

Cuisine: Seafood

Cervejaria Ramiro offers a lively, authentic Lisbon seafood experience where freshness is paramount. The atmosphere is bustling and unpretentious, with waiters efficiently serving platters of the freshest catch. Must-try items include the garlic shrimp, succulent scarlet prawns, and the 'life-changing' carabineiro. A steak sandwich often serves as a traditional 'dessert'. It's a place for communal dining, often requiring a wait, but the quality of the seafood makes it worthwhile.

Price: €€€ (Expect around €50-€100+ per person depending on selection)

Getting There: Situated on Av. Almirante Reis, it's a short walk from Intendente or Anjos Metro stations (Green Line), or a quick taxi ride from central areas.

3. Zé dos Cornos

Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese (Pork Focus)

Zé dos Cornos is a beloved, unpretentious tasca providing a true taste of local Lisbon. The small, often crowded space with communal tables adds to its homely charm. It excels in hearty, traditional Portuguese dishes, particularly its savory, garlicky pork ribs served straight from the charcoal grill. The daily specials, like duck rice or feijoada, are also popular. This is an ideal spot for an affordable and authentic meal in a vibrant local setting.

Price: € (Most dishes under €16, e.g., ribs for €12, lunch menu with drink around €10-15)

Getting There: Tucked away in a charming alley in Mouraria, it's a short walk from Rossio or Martim Moniz Metro stations (Green Line). Be aware that they often accept cash only.

4. Frade dos Mares

Cuisine: Portuguese Seafood & Mediterranean

Frade dos Mares offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience, blending excellent Portuguese seafood with Mediterranean influences. The intimate and friendly atmosphere, often highlighted by attentive service, makes it suitable for both couples and small groups. Dishes such as the fresh tuna, octopus salad, and various seafood pasta options are frequently praised. It's a great choice for those seeking high-quality seafood in a comfortable setting without the formality of fine dining.

Price: €€-€€€ (Main courses typically €20-€40)

Getting There: Located near Cais do Sodré, it's easily reachable by walking from the Pink Street area or by taking the Metro (Green Line) to Cais do Sodré station.

5. Time Out Market Lisboa

Cuisine: Diverse Portuguese & International

The Time Out Market, situated in the historic Mercado da Ribeira, is a vibrant culinary hub perfect for sampling a wide array of Lisbon's food scene under one roof. It brings together stalls from renowned chefs and traditional eateries, offering everything from classic bacalhau à Brás and seafood to burgers and international dishes. It's a lively, communal dining experience ideal for groups or families wanting diverse options, though it can get very crowded and noisy, especially during peak hours.

Price: €€ (Dishes range from €10-€25, offering good value for some selections but can add up)

Getting There: Conveniently located next to Cais do Sodré station (Green Line Metro), it is easily accessible from anywhere in central Lisbon. Walking from Baixa is also an option.

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