Ready to feast on dishes from around the world without leaving our neighbourhood of Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real and Chiado? Ready to taste delicious dishes by some of Portugal’s best chefs? Then you’re in luck. Here are some of our faves (in no particular order):
Atalho Real
Top notch steak and burgers boasting a beautiful terrace garden terrace, where it’s lovely to eat on a warm evening.
A Cervicheria
Chef Kiko Martins’ second restaurant and one of the coolest places to eat in Lisbon – not just because of the iconic octopus suspended from the ceiling but because the ceviche is incredible. No bookings, so be prepared for a well-worth-it queue.
Bairro de Avillez
Michelin-starred Chef Jose Avillez has a handful of fantastic restaurants in Lisbon but this one in Chiado is our favourite. The space is assembled like a small but perfectly formed Lisbon neighbourhood; choose to eat at Taberna (small plates), Patéo (seafood) or browse in the gourmet shop Mercearia.
The Insolito / The Decadente
Hip sister restaurants worth visiting: The Insolito, serves Portuguese food and cocktails and overlooks the São Pedro de Alcãntara viewpoint, reached by a tiny and ancient elevator. The Decadente serves modern Portuguese fare at everyday prices and has a terrace out the back that is heated in winter.
A Mercantina
Proper authentic pizza cooked Neapolitan-style in a mammoth wood fired oven and topped with the freshest ingredients. This place is a mecca for pizza lovers in Lisbon.
Pharmacia
Beautiful setting in Bica and with a funky vintage-chemist design. Great for modern Portuguese/Mediterranean fare. There is also a fabulous terrace for pre and post dinner drinks — all named after pharmaceuticals.
SeaMe
The freshest of fish served any way you like it. Everything from sushi to traditional dishes. Sit at the bar with a chilled glass of wine or at one of the simple wooden tables. There’s now a sister restaurant called MeatMe (see what they did there?) which is worth checking out too…
Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira)
This gourmet food court showcases regional Portuguese cuisine. Every chef here had to prove they were top of their game to be given a slot. It gets very busy though – this is Lisbon’s number one attraction.
Lumi Rooftop at The Lumiares
Head to the rooftop for glorious Lisbon views, cocktails, a great wine menu and delicious seasonal menu from Chef Joao Silva.
Blue at The Vintage
Last but not least, head downstairs at The Vintage for locally sourced seasonal ingredients and an authentic taste of Portugal.