Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and delicious food. The city’s culinary scene is a mix of traditional Portuguese dishes and modern cuisine, offering a variety of flavors that cater to all tastes. From fresh seafood to sweet pastries, Lisbon has something for everyone.
20 Must-Try Foods in Lisbon
Exploring Lisbon’s food scene is like taking a journey through Portugal’s rich history and diverse regions. Each dish tells a story, reflecting the country’s maritime heritage, agricultural traditions, and love for fresh, simple ingredients. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets of Alfama or dining in a modern Baixa bistro, these 20 foods will give you an authentic taste of Lisbon.
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1. Bacalhau à Brás
The classic Portuguese dish Bacalhau à Brás combines scrambled eggs with shredded salted cod, onions, and thinly chopped potatoes. Black olives and parsley typically garnish it. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a comforting and satisfying meal. Portuguese cuisine considers bacalhau, or cod, a staple, and this dish is just one of the many inventive ways to prepare it.
2. Pasteis de Nata
These famous Portuguese custard tarts are a must-try. Enjoy the crispy, flaky pastry filled with creamy custard fresh from the oven, adorned with cinnamon and powdered sugar. Originating from the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, these tarts have become a symbol of Lisbon. People often enjoy these tarts with a cup of strong coffee, which makes them an ideal mid-morning snack.
3. Sardinhas Assadas
Grilled sardines are a staple during Lisbon’s summer festivals. Served with a squeeze of lemon, these are perfect for a light, flavorful meal. Typically, charcoal grilling gives the sardines a smoky flavor. Boiled potatoes, roasted peppers, and a simple salad often accompany them.
4. Bifana
The bifana, a simple yet delicious pork sandwich, consists of marinated pork slices served on a crusty roll. Often enjoyed with mustard or hot sauce, it’s a popular street food. White wine, garlic, and spices marinate the pork before cooking it until it becomes tender. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that you can find at many local eateries.
5. Caldo Verde
Potatoes, kale, and chorizo combine to create this traditional Portuguese soup. It’s hearty and warming, perfect for a cool evening. Celebrations and family gatherings often serve Caldo Verde, also known as “green broth.” The combination of the smoky chorizo and the tender kale makes it a comforting dish.
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6. Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato
A dish of clams cooked in garlic, coriander, and white wine sauce. It’s light, fresh, and full of flavor, typically served with bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Named after the 19th-century Portuguese poet Bulhão Pato, this dish is a tribute to the country’s love for seafood and simple, yet flavorful preparations.
7. Francesinha
Although originally from Porto, the Francesinha has found a home in Lisbon. Layers of ham, sausage, and steak, melted cheese, and a rich beer sauce adorn this indulgent sandwich. People often serve it with fries and a fried egg on top. The Francesinha is a hearty, filling meal that showcases Portugal’s love for robust flavors.
8. Açorda
Açorda is a traditional bread soup made with garlic, coriander, and olive oil, often topped with poached eggs or shrimp. It’s a comforting dish that showcases simple, quality ingredients. Originating from the Alentejo region, Açorda is a wonderful example of how Portuguese cuisine makes use of day-old bread and transforms it into something delicious.
9. Polvo à Lagareiro
This dish features tender octopus baked with garlic and olive oil, served with potatoes. It’s a beloved meal that highlights the fresh seafood available in Lisbon. Cooking the octopus until tender and finishing it in the oven gives it a slightly crispy texture. Fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil typically garnish the dish.
10. Prego no Pão
Usually seasoned with garlic, a steak sandwich occasionally comes with a fried egg. It’s a quick and satisfying meal often enjoyed at local cafes. In Portuguese, “prego” signifies “nail,” symbolizing the process of incorporating garlic into the steak during cooking. It’s a simple yet flavorful sandwich that is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
11. Queijo da Serra
A rich, creamy sheep’s milk cheese from the Serra da Estrela region, often served as an appetizer with bread or olives. This cheese is known for its smooth texture and slightly tangy flavor. It’s a wonderful way to start a meal, paired with a glass of Portuguese wine.
12. Arroz de Marisco
Similar to paella, this seafood rice dish is filled with prawns, clams, mussels, and occasionally lobster. It’s a hearty and flavorful option for seafood lovers. A rich seafood broth cooks the rice, absorbing all the ocean’s flavors. Fresh herbs and lemon often garnish it.
13. Ginjinha
Though not a food, this sour cherry liqueur is a Lisbon specialty. Typically, it comes in a small cup, occasionally accompanied by a piece of fruit at the bottom. Ginjinha bars are a common sight in Lisbon, and enjoying a shot of this sweet, fruity liqueur is a quintessential Lisbon experience.
14. Tosta Mista
This is a simple yet delicious ham and cheese toasted sandwich. It’s a popular choice for breakfast or a light snack. Most cafes typically toast the bread until it turns golden and crispy, and melt the cheese to perfection. It’s a comforting and satisfying option that you can find at most cafes.
15. Peixinhos da Horta
These “little fish from the garden” are actually green beans fried in a light batter. They are popular petiscos (Portuguese tapas). The beans are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect snack or appetizer.
16. Alheira
Jews originally created this type of sausage with meat and bread during the Inquisition. It’s flavorful and often grilled or fried. Fries and a fried egg typically accompany the unique taste and texture of alheira.
17. Chouriço Assado
This is a smoky, spicy Portuguese sausage that is often flame-grilled. It’s a favorite Petisco, served hot and juicy. The grilling process brings out the flavors of the spices, making it a delicious and aromatic treat.
18. Bacalhau com Natas
This is another delicious cod dish, baked with cream and potatoes. It’s rich and comforting—a perfect example of Portuguese home cooking. The creamy sauce complements the salty cod, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
19. Salame de Chocolate
A sweet treat made with chocolate, biscuits, and sometimes nuts. It looks like salami but is a delightful dessert. People often serve it in slices, with the irresistible combination of crunchy biscuits and smooth chocolate.
20. Feijoada
This dish is a hearty bean stew that typically includes pork, chorizo, and occasionally other meats. It’s a comforting dish that’s popular throughout Portugal. Typically served with rice, the rich, smoky flavors of feijoada make it a satisfying meal.
Takeaways
Lisbon’s culinary offerings are diverse and delicious, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage and love for tasty food. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat, or sweets, there’s something in Lisbon for everyone. Be sure to try these dishes to get a true taste of Lisbon’s food scene.
