Lisbon's food scene is a love letter to the Atlantic and to centuries of Portuguese culinary tradition. The city where pasteis de nata were born — those impossibly flaky custard tarts with their caramelized tops — offers a gastronomic experience rooted in simplicity and exceptional ingredients. Bacalhau prepared in seemingly infinite variations, grilled sardines on summer terraces, and the convivial tradition of petiscos shared over a glass of vinho verde reveal a food culture that prizes authenticity above all.
Our reviews explore Lisbon's culinary treasures from the historic tascas of Alfama to the contemporary restaurants of Principe Real and Santos. We cover the city's finest seafood restaurants where percebes and amêijoas are served with oceanic freshness, traditional houses perfecting bacalhau recipes passed down through generations, and innovative chefs reimagining Portuguese cuisine with global influences. Each recommendation includes guidance on local wine pairings and the best times to visit.
Florence Consul's selection highlights what makes Lisbon's food culture so compelling — the marriage of humble ingredients and genuine craft, the warmth of family-run establishments, and the new generation of chefs who honor tradition while pushing boundaries. Discover where to find the city's most exceptional pasteis de nata, the finest petiscos bars, and restaurants where Portuguese gastronomy reaches its most refined expression.