Summary
Lisbon is an exceptional city in Portugal that offers numerous delightful experiences. It boasts an abundance of remarkable activities, and is conveniently located near enchanting destinations such as Sintra. Additionally, there is a plethora of top restaurants throughout the city for you to explore.
You will undoubtedly depart from Lisbon completely satisfied!
Lisbon radiates vibrancy, and despite its size, it maintains an intimate atmosphere, particularly evident in its culinary scene, which features numerous independent and award-winning establishments.
The city is renowned for its delightful Portuguese cuisine, and there are numerous esteemed restaurants in Lisbon that you should not overlook during your visit.
Should you find yourself in Lisbon, ensure to explore some of these culinary gems. The following selection includes my favorite spots from various neighborhoods, ensuring that you will discover excellent dining options nearby, regardless of where you are staying.
Without further ado, here are some of the best restaurants in Lisbon worth experiencing:
1.) Augusto Lisboa
If you’re seeking a delicious brunch, be sure to visit Augusto Lisboa, an excellent cafe located in the Alfama neighborhood, ideal for starting your day.
Here, you can enjoy a selection of delightful homemade treats before embarking on a visit to St George’s Castle and wandering through the charming streets of the area. It is truly one of the best spots for an early morning meal.
2.) Crisfama
If you desire traditional Portuguese cuisine, make your way to Crisfama. This intimate spot serves hearty portions, particularly excellent for a satisfying dinner following a day of exploring the best attractions in Lisbon. Their grilled fresh fish is a must-try.
3.) Varanda Restaurant
Nestled within the iconic Four Seasons Hotel, Varanda Restaurant provides one of the top tasting menus, perfect for a culinary treat during your visit to Lisbon.
The dishes here are exquisite, and you can indulge in dishes of lobster complemented by a fine selection of wines, marking it as one of the premier dining experiences in Lisbon.
4.) Frade dos Mares
Another must-visit, Frade dos Mares is ideal for a delightful dinner, boasting some of the finest grilled octopus in the city. Make arrangements to enjoy a memorable evening here.
5.) Byf Steakhouse
For those craving red meat, Byf Steakhouse stands out as a prime destination. Their T-bone steak is renowned for its incredible flavor.
Given its slightly concealed location, it’s advisable to allocate extra time to find the restaurant, especially if you have reservations.
6.) A Venda Lusitana
A Venda Lusitana offers an authentic experience for those fond of Portuguese tapas. Their selection of Portuguese sausages and cheeses is particularly delightful, and you may find yourself wanting to indulge in even more.
Additionally, they feature a carefully curated wine menu to complement your meal.
7.) A Avo Tinha
Conveniently located near Fonte Luminosa, A Avo Tinha is another remarkable dining spot. Here, be sure to try their grilled alheira, black pork lagartinhos, and sardinhas, all of which come highly recommended.
Beyond exceptional food, this establishment exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
8.) Meson Andaluz
For top-notch Mediterranean cuisine, be sure to stop by Meson Andaluz. It is an excellent venue for a leisurely lunch, with favorites such as patatas bravas and ceviche receiving high praise.
9.) Restaurante Sacramento
For a delightful dinner experience, head to Restaurante Sacramento, located conveniently in the heart of Lisbon, just a short stroll from Carmo Convent.
This establishment offers fantastic seafood options, with their grilled prawn starters being particularly noteworthy. For main courses, try the beef cheeks or açorda for a true taste of Lisbon.
10.) S Restaurante
Situated near Rato Metro Station, S Restaurante is a quaint spot that is absolutely worth a visit. Their octopus salad is refreshing and delicious, particularly on warm days.
It’s important to note that many restaurants in the city may charge for bread and cheese served at the table, so if you prefer to avoid these extra costs, simply decline when offered.
11.) Claras em Castelo
Located in the Alfama district, Claras em Castelo is an intimate restaurant that serves delectable dishes. Despite its unpretentious exterior, don’t be deceived—this place offers satisfying meals that are perfect for lunch. Be sure to sample their pica pau, a delightful meat stew.
Do remember to bring cash, as they currently do not accept card payments.
12.) Bonjardim
If you’re seeking piri-piri chicken, Bonjardim is a fantastic choice. This informal eatery focuses on delivering exceptional flavors, so make sure to grab a table and savor their tender chicken. Don’t forget to try the Piri oil on the side, and enjoy the lovely terrace during the summer months.
After your meal, consider visiting A Ginginha to sample one of their renowned cherry liquors, which packs a delightful punch.
