Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is a great city to sample a range of food from all corners of the coastal nation. Must try food in Lisbon include local specialties that originated on its cobblestone streets as well as Portuguese dishes from other regions and cities such as the Douro, Alentejo and the Algarve.
Pro Tip
If you have limited time in Lisbon, you can taste many of these foods at the chic Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré. However, be aware that this tourist-friendly market is pricier than most traditional Lisbon eateries.
Lisbon is a city where you can dine at snack bars for two euros, drink specialty coffee or blow your paycheck at Michelin starred restaurants. We suggest you eat your way through the city and start with the following ten Lisbon food favorites:
1. Pastéis de Nata
Popular around the world (especially in former Portuguese colonies like Macau and Mozambique), Pastéis de Nata are eggy custard tarts notable for their bright yellow color and creamy texture. Monks invented Pastéis de Nata in Belém centuries ago, but they’re as relevant today as they were when crafty clergymen concocted the heavenly Portuguese desserts.
Discover the best Portuguese desserts.
Caramelization makes the top of Pastéis de Nata dark brown to almost burnt, but the color does not negatively impact the flavor. Though we’ve eaten duds in cities around the world, we’ve never had a Pastel de Nata in Lisbon that was less than wonderful.
Where Is the Best Pastel de Nata in Lisbon?
When you visit Lisbon, you’ll find Portuguese egg tarts in pastelarias throughout the city. However, Confeitaria Nacional, Manteigaria, Pastelaria Aloma and Pastéis de Belém bake the most famous versions.
Each shop’s Natas have super slight, unique differences in flavor and texture. If you’re savvy with your time, you can taste a range of Lisbon custard tarts and find your personal favorite.
Read our Lisbon Pastel de Nata Guide with 10 awesome spots to eat Pasteis de Natas in Lisbon.
2. Bifana Sandwiches
Most countries have a signature sandwich. In Portugal, that sandwich is the Bifana.
The Bifana may be a mystery to visitors, but the concept will surely be familiar. One of the best sandwiches in the world, this iconic Portuguese sandwich is comprised of sautéed, marinated pork packed inside a crispy roll. Some restaurants add more ingredients, but a true Bifana is a simple affair. Add some chips (i.e. french fries) and a glass of Sagres beer to complete the ultimate Lisbon cheap eats meal.
Discover more global sandwiches.
In Lisbon, diners squeeze bright yellow mustard on their Bifanas, similar to what people add to hot dogs in American cities like Chicago and Buffalo. If you’re not sure where to eat a Bifana, just follow the crowds since Lisbon locals know where to find the best food. The same goes for finding a good Prego, the popular Portuguese sandwich made with beef.
Pro Tip
Don’t be deterred by the lack of proper tables and chairs at neighborhood Bifana stands. Eating at the bar is half the fun even if you have to communicate with hand gestures and smiles.
A lot of tourists flock to O Trevo, the popular tasca on Luis de Camões Square in Chiado. The late Anthony Bourdain famously ate there when he filmed No Reservations in 2011.
We ate at O Trevo too and unfortunately found their Bifanas to be dry with overcooked slices of pork. We prefer eating moist, flavorful Portuguese sandwiches at As Bifanas do Afonso in Baixa as well as out of the tourist zone in neighborhoods like Arroios.
