Portuguese lifestyle tips

  Torres Vedras, just a short drive from Lisbon, offers a good glimpse into the diversity of Portuguese life. Far from being a mere satellite of the capital, it’s a town with a rich history where the verdant landscapes of the Oeste region include vineyards, ancient fortifications, and sandy beaches, which for many of us…

  ​Lisbon’s food scene is full of new energy thanks to a bunch of talented young chefs. They’re taking classic Portuguese dishes and giving them a modern twist, mixing in global influences and their own unique ideas. This new approach respects tradition but also makes it exciting and relevant for everyone. In this part of…

  Just a short drive from Lisbon, Vila Franca de Xira presents an inviting day trip destination that is massively overlooked both by international travelers and even locals in the Portuguese capital. This picturesque town, located along the banks of the Tejo River, opens a window to Portugal’s traditional countryside, particularly interesting for those who…

  In any given Lisbon cafe, you’ll come across a delightful assortment of salgados, that is, savory Portuguese snacks, often on display at the counter, tempting those who came in for something to drink and that soon enough may find themselves nibbling on a crunchy fritter. Amongst options that no one would think twice about…

  Setúbal, located a brief journey south of Lisbon, is a captivating destination for those passionate about both cuisine and scenic views. Positioned at the serene estuary of the Sado River and close to the stunning Arrábida Natural Park, Setúbal presents a rich blend of natural beauty and a bustling culinary scene.  Besides being famous…

  Invitingly located near Lisbon, Carcavelos is an attractive coastal town that, together with Costa da Caparica, has become synonymous with beach culture near Lisbon. Even though most people, international tourists and locals alike, make it to Carcavelos to enjoy the beach, we think it is also a place with plenty of cultural and culinary…

Lisbon is in the midst of a culinary revival. Over the past ten or so years, the city’s food scene has been transforming dramatically, driven by a mix of long time Portuguese traditions and the exciting addition of global flavors. This change of course translates into modern food trends and new dishes appearing on menus,…

Lisbon has a great dining scene. However, unlike other major cities where street food is an integral part of daily life, the Portuguese capital presents a different scenario, where traditional street food is not as prevalent or defined. Visitors arriving in Lisbon may expect to find a bustling street food scene similar to those in…

Located on the south bank of the Tagus River, Trafaria is a town that defies simple categorization. Though it functions as a town, it preserves the soul of a traditional fishing village, tucked between Cacilhas and Caparica in the municipality of Almada. Historically significant, Trafaria once served as a quarantine station during the Age of…

  In Lisbon, just like in most cities that welcome travelers all over the world, the rise of boutique hotels has redefined the notion of intimate and personalized lodging. Unlike their larger counterparts, boutique hotels offer a unique blend of luxury and homeliness, providing an experience that extends beyond mere accommodation. But what exactly sets…

  Ask a Lisboner who’s the city’s patron saint and the top-of-mind answer might as well be “Saint Anthony”. This one is surely the most popular saint in town and his popularity has largely surpassed St. Vincent’s, who happens to be the official patron saint of Lisbon, even though we don’t have joyful reasons to…

  Carnide, located in the northwest corner of Lisbon, remains one of the city’s most authentic neighborhoods, mostly untouched by the tourism that has been reshaping the central areas of the Portuguese capital. This quaint locality showcases a side of Lisbon life that travelers rarely experience. Carnide is a neighborhood of contrasts, where narrow cobblestone…

  Brunch, the delightful combination of breakfast and lunch, has traversed the globe, evolving from its late 19th century English origins as a meal for Saturday-night party people to a fashionable and leisurely meal enjoyed worldwide. Its acceptance into various cultures over the years clearly showcases its brunch is here to stay. In the United…

  Portugal’s maritime explorations were launched mostly back in the 15th century. Not only did they chart parts of the globe, which obviously already existed, but that were until then mostly unknown for Europeans, they also laid the groundwork for a complex network of colonies across Asia, Africa, and South America. This period of exploration…

  Each of Lisbon’s neighborhoods has a distinct character. Lumiar stands as a hidden gem, often bypassed by the typical tourist trail yet brimming with cultural richness and culinary opportunities that would make any adventurous food lover happy. Feat photo by Gardens   Photo by Prestige Realty Advisors    Far from the hustle and bustle…

  No matter the pace of life these days, lunch is still taken quite seriously here in Portugal. Normally, depending on your job, you’ll have about an hour to enjoy your midday meal. So you can grab a fork and knife, because sandwiches may be a thing elsewhere, but here we still care about a…

  Just a stone’s throw from the bustling streets of Lisbon, Seixal on the southbank of the Tagus river, offers a serene escape, making it an ideal day trip from the city, for both locals and travelers alike. Reaching Seixal from downtown Lisbon is quite easy. For those with a car, a mere 20 minute…

  In an age where technology permeates every facet of our lives, it’s tempting to rely on it for everything, especially when navigating the unknown streets of a new city. At Taste of Lisboa, while we cherish the serendipity of unplanned adventures and the authentic experiences that come from exploring a city beyond its digital…

  As the sun sets over the seven hills of Lisbon, the city doesn’t just sleep: it transforms.  Picture this: It’s late at night in Lisbon. You’ve been wandering through the charming cobblestone streets, maybe you’ve already enjoyed a delightful dinner earlier. Perhaps you danced at a local party, or maybe you’ve been so captivated…

  Nestled in the heart of Portugal, Mafra is more than just a picturesque place. As the main city in the Zona Saloia, Mafra embodies the country’s rich agricultural history. This region, historically significant as the primary breadbasket for Lisbon, still resonates with the echoes of its past. Here, agriculture was not just a practice…

  Known as Aldeia Galega until 1930, Montijo is a town that belongs to the municipality of Setúbal, just across the Tagus River from Lisbon. If you come to Lisbon during June, the month during which our city is on party mode while celebrating the festival of St. Anthony (also unofficially known as the “sardine…

  Traditional Portuguese cuisine is notoriously not the most accessible option for those who choose to eat a plant based diet. But at least in Lisbon, just like in most major cities around the world, the number of vegan restaurants offering vegetable based dishes has been increasing in recent years.  Whether it’s done for the…

  In Portugal, Christmas means two things: family and food. And when it comes to family, the more, the merrier. Grandparents tend to be the center of the celebrations and, usually, it is at the grandparents’ house that the family gathers to celebrate. The food is what is on everyone’s mind. It should be enough…

  Generally speaking, here in Portugal, the vast majority of restaurants welcome children and are family-friendly. By default, we don’t make this distinction, even though we recognize that some establishments may be more suitable for welcoming families with their children, whether it is from a space and logistics point of view, or even when it…

  As much as we love intimate dinners and small places, where it feels like the restaurants almost exist for our own sake, sometimes we like going out in big groups too. In fact, particularly as Christmas comes around, we know that other companies are also into organizing dinners out with their employees, as a…

  “The first essential component of social justice is adequate food for all mankind. Food is the moral right of all who are born into this world.” – Norman Borlaug, biologist and humanitarian. We are very fond of projects that combine the world of food with a strong social component. We are firm believers that…

  As the weather is clearly asking for it, lately we’ve been focusing our travel guides for foodies on beach destinations near Lisbon. We have previously taken you to the unspoiled beaches of Arrábida Natural Park and, today, we’d like to invite you to what magazine Condé Nast Traveller has highlighted as Portugal’s best secret…

  To say that the Tagus River, known in Portuguese as the Tejo, has shaped Lisbon and the local way of life is an understatement. If it wasn’t for this river, and its close proximity to the sea, Lisbon would have never probably become the prominent city that it is today. If back in the…

  When we travel, particularly at an international level, it’s important to think about our actions and how we can be more responsible travelers. Tourism naturally has an impact, both environmental and at a human level, affecting the places, the lifestyle of people, and the ecosystem. If you are planning to travel to Portugal soon…

  As we always like to stress, there is no best time to travel to Lisbon, because every season of the year has its particular appeal and there is always something going on in the Portuguese capital. But one thing is for sure, if you are not a fan of the warm weather, you have…

  Even though there are many beaches nearby Lisbon, Costa da Caparica is a favorite of many city dwellers when trying to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life, lay in the sand and soak up the sun. A short drive away, simply crossing the Tejo river via the Golden Gate look-alike 25 de…

  At Taste of Lisboa we firmly believe that, with good food, there shall be good drinks! We have previously explored some of the essential beverages you should try while in Portugal (including non-alcoholic options); we have talked extensively about Portuguese wine culture and the diverse wine regions across our country; explored the world of…

  “Where can I find the best paella in Lisbon?” “Oh my… Portuguese jamón is really good!” “Portuguese and Spanish foods are pretty much the same…”   These are words you won’t hear coming out of the mouth of someone who’s truly knowledgeable about Portuguese or even Spanish food. Indeed the cuisines of both Portugal…

  Many of the people who work in Lisbon actually live on the other side of the Tagus river, in an area which we broadly refer to in Portuguese as Margem Sul, that is, the south bank. Across the river not only will you find residential areas which house a growing population which the city…

  In recent years, Lisbon is consistently highlighted as one of the digital nomad capitals of the world. Not only do a lot of remote workers from all nationalities find a temporary base in Portugal’s biggest city, even the pandemic has shifted the paradigm of online work for locals who increasingly enjoy the flexibility of…

Many visitors who come to Lisbon take a day trip to Cascais, a popular seaside city perfect for a leisurely stroll on a sunny day. But not everyone is aware that, in between Lisbon and Cascais (the area which we refer to in Portuguese as Linha de Cascais, that is, the line towards Cascais) there’s…

  For those who agree with us in thinking that food festivals are a great excuse to travel to places you might have not thought of going to otherwise, today we have plenty of appetizing suggestions. For a fairly small country, Portugal has a range of food options that tend to make locals proud. It’s…

  The future of Lisbon’s food scene is in their hands. We’re talking about young chefs who are making a name for themselves alongside well-established chefs which are at the forefront of Portuguese dining – think, for example, José Avillez (Belcanto, Cantinho do Avillez, Bairro do Avillez), or Henrique Sá Pessoa (Alma). Some of them…

  It’s part of our job to introduce you to the best things in Lisbon which you just can’t miss when you travel to Portugal. But, way beyond the more obvious activities, places and even dishes, we take it as part of our mission to invite you to also explore neighborhoods in and around Lisbon…

  Working in the hospitality industry is hard and everyone deserves a day off. That’s why many of Lisbon’s restaurants are closed on Sunday and also on Monday, after having a busy weekend. This rings particularly true when it comes to tascas and family-run establishments, as these are simple eateries that are often run by…

  Many travelers come to Lisbon attracted by the sunny weather and temperate climate. Even though temperatures are fairly moderate all year long, especially when compared to other European capitals, it does get a little cold during the winter. If you were to ask us, we’d say that there’s no ideal time to visit Lisbon,…

  If you are the kind of traveler who enjoys taking a trip around Christmas time, other European destinations popular because of their outdoor Christmas markets may come to mind before you even think of booking a flight to Lisbon. But, what if you actually knew how to embrace the spirit of the holidays learning…

      If old world charm and classical buildings come to your mind when you think about Lisbon, it is because you haven’t been to Parque das Nações yet. To the east of the city, this is one of the most contemporary parts of the Portuguese capital, with striking architecture and a lovely waterfront…

  Hot weather. Glorious sunlight. Warm pastel colors and terracotta rooftops. These are all things often associated with Lisbon. But it wouldn’t be wise to assume that all of these elements are going to be at their greatest expression when you visit Lisbon. We often say that there is no such thing as an ideal…

  Restaurant food doesn’t always fully represent what people eat like at home. This happens in Portugal and in many other parts of the world. If you think about it, it makes sense: when you go out and pay for a dining experience, you expect to enjoy something different than what you already eat at…

  Neighboring the popular neighborhood of Belém, famous for its ancient statues and edible monuments such as Pastéis de Belém, we find the areas of Ajuda and Restelo. While technically these are two distinct Lisbon neighborhoods, they’re so close by, that if you are in the area we’d encourage you to check out both of…

  Even though Benfica is a well-known Lisbon neighborhood for us natives of the city, it is often overlooked by international visitors. Furthermore, if you were to research anything about Benfica online, chances are you’ll come across results related with the popular football club by the same name, rather than the part of town itself….

  Traditional Portuguese cooking makes very good use of octopus as one of its favorite seafood ingredients. Because of its other-wordly looks and long tentacles covered in suckers, the octopus is often a creature that inspires a certain dose of intimidation to those who aren’t used to seeing it on a plate of food. Yet,…

Known as “the city of the seven hills”, Lisbon isn’t the most accessible destination for travelers with reduced mobility. The steep roads in the historical neighborhoods (particularly Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon), the cobblestone streets and the narrow sidewalks can make exploring quite difficult for wheelchair users, as well as other travelers with low…

  After virtually traveling with you to Marvila and Alvalade, we continue our mission to explore some of the most interesting neighborhoods of Lisbon which happen to be less known amongst international visitors. Our aim is to unveil some of their secrets from the perspective of food lovers, that is, highlighting the best restaurants, cafés,…

  As Lisbon’s dining scene is rather vast, you will easily come across a lot of gluten-free labeled options in restaurants all over town, and there’s even some fabulous fully gluten-free restaurants.  Most establishments catering to celiacs and those who’d rather follow a diet with low or no gluten consumption end up serving a menu…

  Solo travel is ideal for when you want to go with the flow and step outside your comfort zone. When you are taking a trip by yourself there’s more room to improvise and, while you do so, learn about yourself.   Lisbon is a perfect destination for solo trips: it’s safe (Portugal actually ranked 3th…

  The neighborhood of Alvalade offers a lively and genuine Lisbon experience like not many other parts of town do these days. At just about 15 minutes metro ride away from downtown, this can be a very rewarding area to explore if you’re looking to immerse yourself in a very Portuguese ambiance, eat good food…

  The fame of peri-peri chicken is a testament to how Portuguese cuisine is, in many ways, a fusion cuisine. From the 15th century onwards, the Portuguese went on to explore different parts of the world, namely the Americas, Africa and Asia, and thus promoted an exchange between our culture and the traditions of the…

  When Anthony Bourdain traveled to Lisbon back in 2012 to shoot No Reservations, one of the restaurants he visited was Cervejaria Ramiro. This seafood restaurant, affectionately referred to by locals simply as Ramiro, was very popular with Lisbon diners until this time but, after being featured on the much liked travel and food show, its…

  Craft beer. Restaurants. Urban art. Culture and events. This is what the trendy and up-and-coming Lisbon neighborhood of Marvila is becoming known for.   Marvila is often nicknamed the Brooklyn of Lisbon, in comparison to the borough of New York City, or the London East-End of Lisbon, in reference to the gentrification that’s been…

  The word azulejo means polished stone in Arabic, referring to the origins of these now considered very Portuguese glazed ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles started being used in Portugal and Spain in the 13th century, when part of the Iberian Peninsula was still being ruled by the Moors of Northern Africa.  Lisbon is probably the…

  As the biggest street party in the city is dedicated to Santo António, one could immediately assume that St Anthony is Lisbon’s patron saint. That title has been reserved for St Vincent but St Anthony is Portugal’s most revered saint and he did happen to be born in Lisbon. So the date of his…

  Whether it’s the peak of summer and the bathing season is fully on, or it’s simply a pleasant warm day, heading to one of the beaches near Lisbon can be a beautiful way of spending some time. If you want to fully embrace the local customs when it comes to spending time at the…

  When we talk about the intrinsic connection between food, its place of origin, and the people who cook it and eat it, it’s important to acknowledge traditions and a certain dose of authenticity.    The adjective authentic refers to something that has a clearly defined origin. Even though we are fans of fusion cuisine…

  Talking about the Portuguese way of life and daily habits is synonymous with talking about coffee. The average Portuguese adult drinks at least two espresso coffees a day, which ends up amounting to about four kilos of coffee grains per person per year. No wonder wherever you go in Portugal, whether it’s in an…

  Many would argue that a weekend is not a long time to enjoy the best Lisbon has to offer. Between well-known touristic activities and unusual things to see and do, the capital of Portugal has virtually a never-ending array of things to keep discovering, even when you live here. But if two to three…

  People often say that one of the things they love about Lisbon is that it’s so close to the countryside. We could go one step further and appreciate the fact that it’s so easy to enjoy some of the best things from the Portuguese countryside in the heart of our city. We are naturally…

  There’s virtually a never ending array of things to see and do in Lisbon. Yet when you visit the Portuguese capital, just like when you travel to any country, it’s always a good idea to venture out of the big city and explore a little more of what the country has to offer. Your…

  As author Alan Wolfelt once wrote, “Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.” We couldn’t agree more! Those who love food as much as we do, know how much of a source of joy tasting appetizing things can be! And what’s better than eating something you love? Doing it with someone you…

  Walking around Lisbon, particularly in the city centre and touristic areas, you’ll see cafés advertising full cooked breakfast options, featuring pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausages and more. While these can indeed be very enjoyable and will pack you with enough calories to go up and down the city of the seven hills, they couldn’t be…

  When planning a trip to a new destination, we often wonder when is the best time to visit. In fact, marketing efforts will attract our attention to specific times of the year that are supposedly great because of a confluence of favorable factors: when most people have vacation time, a set idea of what…

  Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson once said that “wine is bottled poetry” and it just so happens that our country is full of lyricists! No matter if it’s rhymed poetry or free verse, the Portuguese have historically been very keen on wine production and consumption. When you visit Portugal, we’d always recommend visiting at…

  Christmas is around the corner and while Santa may have something different in mind for everyone, we’re the kind of people who’d always hope for edible gifts! We have a feeling we’re not the only ones… Whether you’re shopping for someone special or, very rightfully so, browsing for your own delight, we’d love to…

Usually, before arriving in a new city, you want to learn more about its traditions, history, language or culture. However, sometimes what you really need is simple but essential practical information and tips. What time do restaurants usually serve food? What’s the cheapest way to arrive from the airport? What scams should I look out…

  The beginning of the migration of Portuguese people to the UK dates back to the 15th century, when the Jews who were being persecuted in the Portuguese territory found a safer home in Britain. Yet, if we can count up to 400,000 Portuguese people in the UK these days, it’s mainly because of the…

  Buttery. Flaky. Smooth. Velvety. Rich. Enticing. Decadent. Irresistible… we could be here all day mentioning adjectives that could best describe pastel de nata, but only once you have tried a freshly baked Portuguese custard tart you’d truly know what we’re talking about! Portugal’s most famous pastry is a true staple for many locals and,…

  We see them all over the world. Marching in groups, camera in hand, dropping in and out of cities at lightning speed, spending a lot, learning very little. Entitled, oblivious, obnoxious. We like to think that we are different.  Yet, as we sweat going up a narrow Lisbon street, we find yourselves thinking: “Are…

  At Taste of Lisboa we’re committed to bringing you the best flavors of Portugal no matter where in the world you are! Ideally, we look forward to welcoming you in Lisbon for one of our food & cultural walks. Roaming up and down the city of the seven hills, exploring small local businesses, stopping…

  Traveling broadens the mind and so does tasting foreign cuisines around the world. There’s nothing like visiting a given place and taking your time to explore the local dishes, drinks and customs to start understanding the local way of life.  But what happens when you do miss those holidays in Portugal, you’re craving for…

  You can visit Lisbon many times and always experience it in a different way. How? Simply getting away from the touristic centre, joining group activities such as Taste of Lisboa’s food and cultural walks, going with the flow through off-the-beaten path not knowing where the day may lead or, quite on the contrary, planning…

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe, constantly evolving and resilient to changes.  The city is conscious of the ecological footprint, making sustainable choices on the path to a thriving future. Lisbon, like many other big cities in the world, has tons of waste to deal with. On the other hand, it is…

  Once you arrive in Lisbon and start to mingle in the atmosphere, you can do it both ways:  the touristic way or the Portuguese way.   Sure you can check in at every tourist spot (plenty of them are worth it) and eat all the  Portuguese custards tarts you can – we also eat them…

If discovering Lisbon and treading its seven hills might be already challenging by itself,  imagine going up and down each and every one of these hills with one, two or three children, tired, hungry and always asking: Are we there yet? Are we? ARE WEEEE? Or with teenagers asking to take a picture of them…

Portuguese people love to host and many well-known Portuguese industries and crafts exist to supply this tradition. When it comes to food, Portuguese people make it a happening! A meal is much more than eating, all round the world and in Portugal is no exception. It’s the gatherings, the love for hosting, the long chattings…

Do you feel more hungry during winter? It’s natural. On colder days, our body consumes more energy to regulate body temperature. But anyone who likes to eat knows that this verb is not just a functional act. Those who love to eat do not just do it for food. We also do it for the…

As the global pandemic still unfolds in different parts of the world, here in Portugal we are happy to announce that our country is fully open to tourism. We are aware that those who have had to reschedule their travels to Portugal, and who haven’t booked anything yet but are potentially planning to, may have…

The warm season has officially started here in Lisbon! If locals tend to eagerly await the good weather to enjoy time outdoors, this year, after about 2 months in lockdown, you bet we are all craving to go outside. Of course, we are still respecting social distancing and observing certain restrictions so that all the…

We know that many of the visitors who travel to Lisbon do so enticed by the things that make our country stand out: the scenic beauty, the warm weather, extremely welcoming people and, of course, Portuguese food! Attending a dinner with live Fado music is one of the quintessential experiences you can enjoy in Lisbon. It doesn’t…

At Taste of Lisboa, we are very proud to welcome independent travelers from all over the world here in Portugal’s capital city. While we’re very happy to introduce you to our food and culture, we strongly encourage you to immerse yourself and explore even more on your own. Even though a lot of Portuguese people…

This article is dedicated to the lovely community who has been following the Taste of Lisboa at Home live sessions on Instagram. If you’ve missed our previous editions, kindly note that all April long we’re sharing snippets of Portuguese food and culture via live videos presented by Taste of Lisboa hosts. On our first live, Madalena…

When you read about the inspiration of many renowned chefs, they often quote their grandmother’s cooking as a source of inspiration. When you taste someone’s food and you say something along the lines “it tastes just like my mom’s!”, that would generally be a huge compliment. For centuries, women have been in charge of feeding…

Portuguese cuisine is unquestionably tasty, but it isn’t known as the lightest cuisine out there. Our typical dishes are what many would describe as comfort food. Hearty stews. Addictive fritters. Desserts are galore. Plenty of coffee breaks paired with pastries… You name it! This is exactly what makes Portugal such as great destination for food-loving travelers!…

  When that wonderful time of the year comes around in Portugal, we think about holidays and a few days away from work. We like spending quality time with our loved ones, bond over gift exchanging and, over all, have a deeper sense of appreciation for the good things in life, that may not always be so…

Generally speaking, Portuguese people tend to have a classical mindset when it comes to food. Following the old saying “if something is not broken, why fix it?” we have for years clinged to recipes that have been passed from generation to generation in our families. We have embraced traditional flavors and cooking techniques almost as…

In Portugal, there are two types of establishments that are more than just places to eat. They are places to meet friends and neighbors, to socialize, to gossip, to analyze last night’s football match, and yes, in good Portuguese fashion, to complain about the weather and the state of the country’s politics. One is the…

  Summer isn’t summer in Portugal without its typical seafood festivities and feasts, shared with friends and family around a long table. We can jump in the car and drive for miles to the seafood festival in a coastal village, we can head to the seafood restaurant across the street or we can invite (or…

  For most Portuguese, Summer means one thing, and one thing only: beach time! As soon as the weather starts warming up, everyone starts yearning to sink their feet in the warm sand and get that perfect tan. However, a Portuguese day at the beach can be very particular in its rituals. So, if you…

If you’ve scheduled a trip to Lisbon, come and discover A-City-Within-The-City: Campo de Ourique, the Lisbon neighborhood that is shielded from the tourist crowds, right in the heart of the city. It’s timeless and enchanting, thanks to its traditional Portuguese traits and the breath of fresh air brought to you by artistic influences that have…

  Lisbon’s traditional markets have been renovated hand in hand with the city and its lifestyle, giving way to cosmopolitan spots where classic fresh fish, meat, fruit and vegetable stalls come together with renowned chefs and kitchens stalls to provide, in the same space, the entire culinary cycle – from handpicking the produce of the…

  It’s no secret: it’s perfectly possible to get lost in Lisbon’s typical streets and neighborhoods for days and not even realize how much time has gone by. But now that summer is fast approaching, don’t forget that Portugal’s capital is only two minutes away from the coast, with fantastic dunes and beaches. So, if…

We favor walking tours with strategic stops to enjoy the local culture, to tell and listen to the stories and customs of each neighborhood, to savor local tidbits and immerse ourselves in the authenticity of every corner in Lisbon. With the arrival of June, we have even more reasons to get outside and go for…

  After an afternoon discovering and sharing Lisbon’s most delicious hidden gems through one of our walks, experiencing local food and embracing Portuguese culture and its people, it’s time for the golden hour – that magical moment when Lisbon presents those who are lucky to find themselves in the city with one of the most…

What is a trend, by the way? According to the TrendsObserver, trends are changes that typically occurs across a large numbers of consumers. And therefore created by changes in political, economic, social-cultural and technological environments. A trend will no be in the past, but as a prediction of something that will happen and somehow accepted…

When people think of food in Lisbon they might remember first of the pork steak sandwich Bifana, charcoal-grilled sardines and snails. Nevertheless, the trend of plant-based diets is spreading fast and we can find more restaurants serving no meat nor fish than ever before. Vegetarian, vegan, macrobiotic, paleo, raw and ayurvedic are becoming familiar concepts…

Portugal has an ancient tradition when it comes to wine production. This beverage is so important in our gastronomy that Portugal is one of the biggest consumers of wine per person in the world. The value for money of our wine is second to none and many might even envy us for that, but when…

Portugal’s link with rice exists long past its foundation. Rice started to be cultivated in our territory during the Mourish occupation, between the 7th and the 8th centuries AD. This grain became so precious in our diet that nowadays we are the 4th biggest European producer, cultivating it in the estuaries of Sado, Tagus and…

Lisbon is one of the most cultural cities in Europe. We rank among the top in classic and contemporary dance shows, concerts, and theater plays. However how often do we have to rush dinner in order to show up at theater on time?Have you ever thought how easier it would be to just have dinner…

Let’s say it like it is: Portugal has the best fish in the world and the Portuguese are passionated about everything the sea allows us to enjoy. There is a Summer Queen: her name is Sardine. She quietly deals with her family affairs (ie, reproduction) throughout the winter to be available to celebrate together the…

  Good food is art too. Lisbon is one of the most culturally dynamic cities in Europe. The abundance of creative people, galleries and museums is one of our most appreciated assets of our city and one of the secrets to its irresistible appeal. Just like painting and sculpture, food can be art too, an…

When warm June comes around Lisboa dresses up with colorful decorations for the party. During this month we celebrate our favorite popular saint – Santo António (St. Anthony). His day in 13th of June but Lisboners love celebrations, so we celebrate all month long! Festas de Lisboa – Lisbon Festivities – as we call it….

  Ask a Lisboner who’s the city’s patron saint and the top-of-mind answer might as well be “Saint Anthony”. This one is surely the most popular saint in town and his popularity has largely surpassed St. Vincent’s, who happens to be the official patron saint of Lisbon, even though we don’t have joyful reasons to…

  How to identify the perfect Portuguese custard tart   The Portuguese custard tart – Pastel de Nata – is the most iconic pastry in Portugal and one of the most delicious gifts that Portugal ever gave to the world. In 2009, The Guardian considered Pasteis de Belém “one of the best foods in the…

  If you are in Lisbon and feel like having lunch around 11:00 or 15:00, your best choice is definitely to book your place in one for our food & cultural walks. If you feel like a few beers and something to bite at 18.00, it is also possible. In Portugal, any time is a…

It’s common to find in Christmas markets of white Europe, less in the warm winters of its South. We gather for you 8 places where you can taste a good glass of mulled wine in Lisbon. Portuguese wine lovers say we’re spoiling wine and purists say that drinking mulled wine it should be with negative…

‘I’ll never ever drink in my life!’ The promise, spoken from the heart after one more night out, it’s full of good intentions, but of no use to ease the headache and dry mouth once you wake up after last fabulous New Year’s Eve party night! Promises, promises. So what’s next? Calories and something cool…

There’s a trend that is here to stay: enjoy the city rooftops for a drink, eat some snacks and enjoy the marvellous light of Lisbon until the sun goes down. Is there anything better than this? Just go up to the rooftop of some buildings in the city, a feat within reach even of those…

Yes, it’s true: not even in the holidays Portuguese stop thinking about food! Even if we go on holiday to Algarve beaches, to the north orin the countryside to visit family there is always a seafood, sardines or crab summer festival. Often, the food festivals are embedded in popular festivals that liven up the country…

Forget for a moment the Lisbon tour guides and discover the most overlooked parts of the city. Venture through narrow and quieter streets and discover fine museums, art galleries in abandoned warehouses or palaces hiding Ming porcelain collections. Besides the lovely Campo de Ourique and Mouraria neighborhoods, where we already take you to discover the…

  Another warm and sunny day in Portugal and sometimes it just sounds right to lay on the grass, or sit on a park bench, having a bite to eat while appreciating time with friends and family. If you already went to our busy streets in Lisbon center and you want to get away from…

Are you travelling ​to Lisbon during this week​? ​ ​D​on’t miss out on our most beloved tradition, where everyone gets together through our pi​c​turesque streets to​ party and​, well, you know, eat. These festivities were originated in Lisbon in honor of a beloved Saint called Anthony. The Protector of Portugal, as Our Lady of Conception,…

Some years ago, Portuguese used to wake up at the sound of baker’s van, honking religiously at the same time to sell homemade bread – what Portuguese called “papo-secos”. Over time tradition was being lost and the habit of buying fresh bread in the morning do not passed to the new generations and the bakeries…

Mouraria is known, among other attributes, for its multiculturalism and for get together various cultures in a climate of harmony. Here you will find Indian restaurants, Chinese, Pakistani or Angolan relatively easily and we know what happens when there are many options: the choice becomes more and more difficult! What to taste? If you fancy…

There is a saying that where there are snacks and good food there is beer or wine to drink with it. And if the English prefer beer, the French wine and the Russians vodka, the Portuguese are beer lovers, but they are also fan of a good glass of wine. It depends on the menu…

If you are vegetarian and you’re in Lisbon, take a note: you will be put to the test. Several times! Whenever you enter a cafe or a restaurant you will be faced with true culinary temptations that will make you think twice in the decision to quit eating meat or fish. Just because Portuguese cuisine…

If you are planning a tour around Lisbon there are two things that you cannot miss in your backpack: a sunscreen and a water bottle! Although you can buy it in any coffee or grocery store, the city is filled with monumental drinking fountains that are part of its history and that can be very…

Lisbon has so much to offer that can be hard to know where to start. What to see? What are the mandatory monuments? What I cannot lose? Finding the answer to these questions becomes easier to April 18, the International Day of Monuments and Sites, which is to say that museums and monuments open doors…

Portuguese pastries are by themselves a temptation, but be careful when visiting Campo de Ourique. The neighborhood is a real temptation for lovers of high concentrations of sugar, starting with the World’s Best Chocolate Cake. Really? In the Taste of Lisbon food tour you will be able to taste this and other temptations. Take note:…

  If they are fewer and fewer people who follow by the book the fasting during Lent (no meat on Good Friday), the same cannot be said of the gastronomic traditions associated with Easter, the most important festival of the Christian world. Originating in Hebrew Peseach, Easter began as a Jewish celebration and means passage…

Sayings Having more eyes than belly – Wanting something that you do not really need. Similar to “have eyes bigger than your stomach”. Who does not eat for having eaten … has no danger of disease – When you lose your appetite for eating before meals. Who is not to eat, is not to work…

Do you know when to use the expression ‘ate like an abbot’? Or why you should not ‘swallow frogs’ or ‘cry over spilt milk’? Here’s the meaning of very typical Portuguese expressions around food. We, Portuguese, confess: we are addicted to good food and popular sayings! Believe it when we say that there’s a popular…

What does horoscopes and math calculations have to do with Fernando Pessoa? I’m in the right place? Is this the real place? Yes, you’re absolutely right, this is Casa Fernando Pessoa, which welcomes visitors with horoscopes of the various heteronyms of Fernando Pessoa. The poet invested big time in his more than 72 ​’avatars’ and…

If you are in Lisbon and want to make the most of the next Saturday take this advice: choose your WORST clothing! At least if you are planning to visit Martim Moniz square. The Bollywood Holly Festival is back and promises to paint everything and everyone with colour inks, or Gulal, filling the atmosphere of…

Lisbon Downtown, between Mouraria and Arroios neighborhoods, is where more​ immigrant ​communities live togheter, about four thousand legal ​people. This was the ​starting point of Arroios Around the World​ Project 1/11, which ​wants to promote the culture, cuisine and customs of different existing communities, such as Guinea-Bissau, Cape Verde, Angola, Bangladesh, Ukraine, Morocco or India….

No, not in a traditional Fado house, but where you least expect! On one of the many taverns, in a sports group or even during a walk through the narrow streets of Mouraria. In the neighbourhood that is known as the birthplace of Fado, residents still like to hear it loud and clear. Unlike Alfama,…

In Portugal, the act of drinking tea goes far beyond the traditional five o’clock tea. Green, black or white, besides warming soul and hands on cold days, many teas or herbal teas have medicinal properties and depending on the plants, they are true home remedies. Take note: Lemon, honey and ginger tea – This three…

Is coming that time of the month in which Figueira Square is transformed into a Portuguese regional products market. The metal structures are assembled and the square is preparing to receive regional producers of cheeses and sausages, bee products, traditional desserts, traditional wines and liquors, as well as several proposals for crafts. Be sure to…

In Lisbon, one of the most popular destinations to spend the last minutes of the year and watch the fireworks that celebrates the entry into a new year is Praça do Comércio. At least for those who enjoy crowds, confusion and cold! For those who prefer quieter programs, Mouraria has other options to consider: Zambeze…

The tradition remains the same in Mouraria and in many homes Christmas eve was celebrated with boiled cod with potatoes, cabbage and boiled egg and turkey today, accompanied by traditional Christmas sweets such as rabanadas (fried bread with sugar), dreams and king’s cake. But Mouraria is a melting pot and not everyone celebrate Christmas, as…

Traditional markets and fairs are fantastic places to find traditions that thought forgotten in time. At every last weekend of each month, Praça da Figueira receives Figueira Marca-te (Figueira Marks You), a traditional market where you can local producers, regional products and artisans. You can find and taste sausages, suckling pig sandwiches, convent sweets, chocolates,…

London, Amsterdam and Barcelona: we visit them last November. The three cities were already familiar to us. At least we thought so. So when we finally manage some free time to wander, we choose to look for locals to show us the less touristy areas and discover the food culture and get along with those…

The next time you enjoy a coffee, drink a coffee with milk (galão) or eat a soup in Mouradia, the headquarters of the Renovar a Mouraria Association, you can help those in need. How? Just order a coffee, a galão, a soup or a sandwich and pay double or triple. These coffees or soups that…

In Portuguese cuisine the concept of fast food is not necessarily linked to burgers, pizza or lasagne. One of the dishes very appreciated by the Portuguese takes five minutes to get ready and could not be easier to prepare. You just need the right ingredients and follow the instructions: Ingredients (serves 2 people) 1 onion…

After an unusually warm October, November brought the characteristic chill of autumn and with it the smell of roasted chestnuts. The streets of downtown Lisbon are invaded by stands of chestnut roasters that emit a white smoke that mingles with the fog and gives the city a mysterious atmosphere. If you’ve never tasted roasted chestnuts…

The soup is the basis of a good meal and the Portugueses take this habit very seriously. Served as an entry, an amuse-bouche before the meal or a whole meal by itself, it’s an important sources of intake of vegetables and one of the tricks for a healthier diet. And a snuggled stomach with a…

In Portugal tradition says that November and December are months dedicated to broas, small brownish cookies, oval or round, done with sweat potato or corn bread, decorated with half almond and baked especially for the All Saints Day or Christmas. The name broas has a double meaning, since ‘receive the ‘broa’ is an old expression…

It is said that is the basis of the cuisine in Mediterranean countries, but Portugal follows the Atlantic Diet (as we are near Atlantic Ocean). But what’s the difference between the two? And what is the healthiest? Nutritionists do not get tired of praising the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet, either by the use of…

Hidden in Largo da Achada, in the back of Rua das Farinhas, Casa da Achada is the headquarters of the Center Mário Dionísio, a cultural spot that offers several proposals as painting exhibitions or screenings outdoors. Includes the private library of Mário Dionísio, a portuguese critic, writer, professor and painter (1916-1993), and Maria Letícia Clemente…

Although sunny, beautiful Lisbon also has its darkest days. In a week when weather forecasts indicate some rain, enjoy these greyer days to find other charms of the city. 1 – Plan indoor visits – Old College of Young Orphans  The grey and rainy days are the best to discover the history and monuments of the…

Forget Emmental, Gruyere, Brie or Roquefort cheese. In Portugal, the mandatory cheeses are those that smell worse! At first the scent can be a strong deterrent, but the spicy touch makes you forget everything. Don’t you believe? Pass by Zé dos Cornos tavern, in Mouraria, ask to taste the cheese of Castelo Branco, with a…

Mouraria is the most multicultural neighborhood of Lisbon and Portugal. You find everything in here. If you are in Lisbon and looking for a Halal butcher, Benformoso Street is a must see destination. There are at least three butchers that sell Halal meat, ie, arabic word that means allowed to the Islamic community. In Portugal…

Three friends got together and are now at Mercado de Campo de Ourique, in one of those marble stalls, where we used do the shopping by the hand of your grandmothers or parents. The market of Campo de Ourique is full of new stuff, full of charm and life that lasts the whole day even…

Downtown and Mouraria have plenty of culinary choices and invites you to an irresistible journey through the flavours from various corners of the world without having to leave the neighbourhood. But for those days when you fancy a family moment or a special meal for two, Taste of Lisboa Food Tours proposes an alternative DIY…

If Belém has Pastéis de nata (custard tarts) and Sintra it’s Queijadas (small cheesecake), since the end of 2013 that Mouraria has Pastéis da Mouraria (Mouraria Tartlet). Made from white beans, almonds and egg bedridden in a thin and crispy layer, Pastéis da Mouraria it’s an idea of João Guedes, who at the age of…

Portuguese style Mussels are locally known as Mexilhões à Bulhão Pato. This is a simple, quick and easy to do dish, with simple and healthy ingredients. You can truly enjoy the freshness of the mussels by just adding natural flavours as wine, garlic and olive oil and few herbs on top of it. Try it…

1 – Pollux Terrace It is one of the best kept secrets of downtown Lisbon. Enter Pollux, climb to the 8th floor by elevator, follow the stairs to the 9th floor and enjoy the view over the houses to the St George Castle. As it is a relatively unknown spot is still easy to find…

It is the night of all excesses, the night where anything can happen. From 12 to 13 June Lisboners are keen to celebrate St. Anthony with sardines on bread and lots of beer to the sound of traditional music! This year, Mouraria been ablaze with dozens of ‘bailaricos’ (traditional balls) and lots of entertainment both…

In Lisbon, the month of June is synonymous of party and celebration. In every corner there is a neighbourhood party or ‘arraial’ where the queen is always the same: sardine! This small fish is grilled over coals and served simply with a drizzle of olive oil on a slice of bread. Keep it simple and…

  For the Portuguese, coffee is a true national passion and you don’t want to play with this subject. There are several ways to order a coffee and there are names for everything, depending on how one serves and what it serves. The ‘bica’, as they say in Lisbon, can be ‘curta’/short (stronger), normal, ‘quase…

When in Rome do as romans and in Lisbon … do as ‘alfacinhas’! To start the day, the typical lisboeta likes to have breakfast at the cafe in the neighborhood, and in Mouraria, Leitaria Moderna is the morning meeting point for the inhabitants of the neighborhood. This is the spot where they say Good Morning…

Is one of the best kept secrets of downtown Lisbon. Among the pots and pans of Pollux, the 9-store shop where you can find anything for the home, hides one of the most beautiful terraces overlooking the capital. Just take the elevator to the 8th floor, follow the stairs up to floor 9 and find…

Between the Castle hill, the same where tourists get lost in the streets of Mouraria looking for the way to the Castle of St. George, lies the Teatro Taborda. Worth a visit during the day because of the the space, decorated with delightful details such as chairs hanging on the wall, or the view of…