Traditional Food in Lisbon

Beloved by mini-breakers, culture vultures, and digital nomads, Lisbon has quickly become one of Europe’s most sought-after and exciting cities. With a diverse and dynamic dining scene to match its lively personality, the city is especially well-suited to culinary connoisseurs. Enjoy flaky pastel de nata with a coffee, tuck into hearty cozido à Portuguesa on chillier days and sip on a glass of Ginga, the city’s signature liquor. So, come hungry and explore the local markets; Portugal’s capital is bound to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. Read on for our guide to traditional food in Lisbon and some of the must-try dishes that define the region. Bom appetite!

1. Bacalhau à Brás

Bacalhau, or salted cod, is a Portuguese culinary staple that comes in many forms. One of the most popular ways to enjoy this dish is in Bacalhau à Brás. This comforting dish combines flaked cod with eggs, finely chopped fried potatoes, and a sprinkle of parsley and black olives. Sample the delicate blend of flavours, and you’ll see why salted cod has pride of place in Portuguese kitchens.

2. Pastéis de Nata

No visit to Lisbon is complete without trying a Pastel de Nata (or Portuguese custard tart). These small, golden pastries (with their flaky, crispy crust and smooth, rich custard filling) are a true Lisbon delicacy. For the best of the best, head to Pastéis de Belém, one of the most famous pastry shops in the Belém district, where these tarts have been perfected for generations. Traditional food in Lisbon doesn’t get more authentic than this.

3. Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato

Portugal’s extensive coastline means fresh seafood is always on the menu. One of the standout dishes to try in Lisbon is Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato, a simple yet exquisite dish of clams cooked with garlic, cilantro, olive oil, and white wine. This dish represents the fresh, bold flavours that characterise Lisbon’s seafood culture, and it’s often served as an appetiser or small plate.

4. Sardinhas Grelhadas

Sardines are a quintessential part of Portuguese cuisine, especially during summer. Sardinhas Grelhadas (grilled sardines) are typically served with roasted potatoes, salad, and sometimes a slice of fresh bread. These flavourful fish are often grilled on the street during Lisbon’s festivals, particularly during the Feast of St. Anthony in June. This traditional food in Lisbon offers a taste of the city’s eclectic street food scene.

5. Cozido à Portuguesa

If you need a hearty dish for cooler days, Cozido à Portuguesa is the answer. This traditional Portuguese stew features a variety of meats, including pork, beef, and chicken, combined with vegetables like cabbage, potatoes, and carrots. It’s a filling, comforting meal that’s popular in Lisbon and throughout Portugal, especially during autumn and winter.

6. Caldo Verde

Another classic Portuguese comfort food is Caldo Verde, a nourishing soup made from kale, potatoes, onions, and slices of chorizo (or linguiça). This delicious green soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly Lisbon evening and is often served as a starter, but you’ll also find it served as a light meal on its own.

7. Prego no Pão

For a quick and tasty bite, sink your teeth into Prego no Pão, a Portuguese steak sandwich. It’s made with thinly sliced beef, often grilled with garlic and served with mustard or spicy sauce, all tucked into a soft, crusty roll. This traditional food in Lisbon is a popular snack or lunch option and can be found at casual eateries throughout the city.

8. Chanfana

For those looking to experience a rich, slow-cooked dish, Chanfana is a must-try. This rich dish features goat or lamb marinated in red wine, garlic, and herbs, then slow-cooked until tender. While it’s more common in the central and northern parts of Portugal, many restaurants in Lisbon serve their own take on this flavourful, rustic stew.

9. Peixinhos da Horta

If you’re a fan of fried foods, Peixinhos da Horta is Portugal’s answer to tempura. This dish consists of vegetables, often green beans, battered and deep-fried to crispy perfection. It’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy vegetables and makes for a great appetizer or snack.

10. Ginja

No trip to Lisbon is complete without trying Ginja, a sweet cherry liquor often served with a piece of fruit at the bottom of the glass. This beloved local drink is typically consumed in small amounts as an after-meal digestif. You can enjoy it at one of the many Ginja bars around Lisbon, with the most famous being in the historic district of Alfama.

11. Arroz de Marisco

Another iconic dish you won’t want to miss is Arroz de Marisco, a savoury seafood rice dish packed with flavour. It’s often made with a variety of shellfish such as shrimp, clams, and mussels and cooked with tomatoes and aromatic spices. This dish is a wonderful reflection of Lisbon’s seaside location and the abundance of fresh seafood available.

12. Bifana

For a speedy but still satisfying meal, the Bifana is Lisbon’s answer to a classic sandwich. Made with marinated pork, it’s often served with mustard or spicy sauce and packed into a crusty bread roll. Whether enjoyed at a casual eatery or from a street vendor, the Bifana is perfect for those after an authentic Lisbon snack on the go.

Inspired by our list of traditional food in Lisbon and craving a Pastel de Nata? Check out our luxury holiday villas in Portugal and speak to our friendly Concierge team for more travel ideas.