There’s no denying that some of the best restaurants in Lisbon are the most talked-about in Europe right now. Before the pandemic hit in 2020, the city was on a roll with new openings—Prado opened in late 2017, while 100 Manieras came in 2019—but COVID slowed growth for many eateries. Nearly three years on, recovery is back on track and 2022 saw bigger strides than ever in cementing the city as a food hotspot, helped immensely by new crowds descending upon the cobbled streets once more. The good news is, the openings aren’t set to slow down any time soon.
So, where should you eat in Lisbon? Before I visited the city for the first time, I knew very little of Portuguese cuisine—aside from pastel de natas, of course. But now, having been lucky enough to know the city intimately and learn its traditions, I am a keen champion of everything on offer, whether that’s traditional dishes or a new twist. Most people visiting Lisbon will want to try some form of traditional food at one of the city’s tascas, casual eateries serving very local dishes such as bacalhau (salted cod) and prego or bifana (beef or pork sandwiches). Those who are more familiar with the city may prefer one of the many modern or Michelin-starred restaurants on offer.
Just like the city itself, Lisbon’s food scene is varied and exciting—and you can go from knocking back ginjinha (cherry liqueur) with locals to sipping wine at a tasting menu within 24 hours. Whatever you’re looking for, these are the Lisbon restaurants I have tried and would recommend to anyone visiting the city (in no particular order).
How we choose the best restaurants in Lisbon
Every restaurant on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a journalist who knows the destination and has eaten at that restaurant. When choosing restaurants, our editors consider both high-end and affordable eateries that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We’re always looking for stand-out dishes, a great location, and warm service—as well as serious sustainability credentials.
Click the link to read our complete Lisbon city guide.
