Where Lisbon locals go for lunch
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 hot meal, and having it with a glass of wine (even if you’re eating out with your boss) is certainly not frowned upon.
Feat photo by Time Out Lisboa
Going out for lunch in Lisbon represents an opportunity to enjoy home-style dishes that you won’t always find served at restaurants in the evening. Lunch is generally supposed to be affordable and featuring food that tastes like home cooking.
At Taste of Lisboa, we recognize that while living like a local is an elusive concept for visitors, seeking out genuine experiences to mingle with born and bred Lisboans is entirely possible. Our food & culture walks precisely aim to bridge that gap, and so do our recommendations here, hoping to guide you to the heart of Lisbon’s lunch scene.
Photo by Time Out Lisboa
Lisbon’s eateries, from traditional restaurants and tascas (taverns) to pastelarias (literally, pastry shops), each provide unique dining experiences. Restaurants and tascas are where you’ll find the heartwarming prato do dia and menu do dia, serving dishes that feel like a hug on a plate. Without exaggeration, when you’re having an intense or uninspiring work week, lunch may be the highest point of the day, so you might as well make it count. Pastelarias, surprisingly, double as spots for savory lunches, offering a peek into the local comfort food scene, where dishes unseen in regular restaurant menus make an appearance, showcasing the one-pot wonders (comida de tacho) of Portuguese home cooking.
Photo by Evasões
To make the most of lunch hours in Lisbon, particularly during the week, there are a few key concepts one must get acquainted with: prato do dia (daily special), menu do dia (daily combo), and even mini prato (a smaller serving of the daily special). These ways of structuring meals allow diners to savor different flavors at a reasonable cost. These offerings usually reflect the season’s best ingredients and are a nod to Portugal’s region’s culinary variety.
The prato do dia (dish of the day) and menu do dia (menu of the day) are staples in Lisbon’s lunch culture, and are usually served during typical Portuguese meal hours, roughly between 12PM and 3PM at the most. These offers provide a more affordable way for locals to enjoy a hearty meal outside their homes. The prato do dia usually consists of a single dish that changes daily (with several options for fish and meat available), offering a variety of flavors throughout the week. On the other hand, the menu do dia often includes a soup, the main course, sometimes a beverage, and occasionally dessert and perhaps even an espresso coffee. This deal is particularly popular among workers and students looking for a fulfilling meal at a reasonable price. Some establishments even offer a mini-prato, a smaller version of the prato do dia, catering to those who prefer a lighter meal. In very specific establishments, you can only eat the cheaper mini-prato standing by the counter. It’s literally fast food, but good food nonetheless.
Photo by Living in Iberia
Another important concept to understand when you eat out in Portugal is couvert. In short, couvert stands for the appetizers which will land on your table even if you didn’t order them. We’re talking about bread, olives, butter, spreads such as sardine pâté, and even cheeses and cold cuts, depending on the establishment. It’s important to note that many menu do dia deals exclude the couvert or, at the most, may include some bread. While this might seem like a minor detail, it reflects the emphasis on keeping lunch affordable and focused on the main dishes. If for instance bread is placed on your table and it wasn’t specified as being part of the daily special, you can be rest assured that it will be added to your final bill.
A lot of Lisbon eateries have quite a charming way of announcing lunch dishes, often scribbled in chalk on a blackboard on even on the walls, or handwritten on paper, the same paper sometimes used in lieu of fabric tablecloths in more casual settings.
Photo by Pastelaria Atlantida on TripAdvisor
If during the week, locals gravitate towards restaurants offering the prato do dia, relishing dishes that define home cooking, on weekends, particularly on Sunday, the scene shifts as Lisboetas flock to certain establishments, not necessarily fancy, but cherished for their ability to host delightful family gatherings. These places, perfect for a leisurely weekend lunch, become stages for delicious food and family bonding.
Whether it’s the daily haunts for weekday lunches or the special spots where families gather over the weekend for memorable meals, we highlight the places that are integral to Lisbon’s food culture.
Best restaurants eat lunch like a local in Lisbon
A Floresta do Salitre
A Floresta do Salitre proves that enjoying a hearty and affordable meal near the upscale Avenida da Liberdade is far from a fantasy. As lunchtime nears, this no-frills eatery becomes a bustling hub of activity, its tables quickly filling up with patrons eager for a taste of traditional Portuguese fare. The restaurant is characterized by its friendly, old-school service, homemade soups, and generously portioned dishes. Here you can enjoy dishes such as bacalhau com grão (salt cod with chickpeas), entremeada de leitão (baby pork belly) with homemade round fries, grouper rice or bitoque, which are amongst the most popular choices of the regular clientele.
Beyond its main courses, A Floresta do Salitre’s dessert display is not to be overlooked, promising a sweet finale to any meal. This establishment epitomizes the kind of straightforward Lisbon restaurants that prioritize honest, home-cooked meals at reasonable prices, drawing in a crowd of local workers for a comforting lunch break accompanied by glasses of red wine. Despite its simple setup and the absence of decorative frills, though crisp white linen tablecloths are a given, the culinary offerings are beyond reproach.
Given its popularity, especially during midweek lunch hours, be prepared to join the queue of office workers awaiting their turn at a table. Yet, the wait is a small price for the promise of saying you’ve had a substantial meal at one of Lisbon’s favorite lunch venues, much cherished by those in the know.
📍Rua do Salitre 42D, 1250-096 Lisbon
Photo by Michele Riccardi on TripAdvisor
A Provinciana
Open since 1988, A Provinciana is a tasca run by Mr. Américo Fernandes, who took over after purchasing the restaurant from its Galician founders who opened the doors back in 1930. The interior is peculiarly adorned with about 50 clocks all crafted by Américo himself.
The dining experience at A Provinciana is made memorable not just by its décor but by the warmth and efficiency of service led by Américo’s daughter, Carla, and most of all by the culinary mastery of his wife, Judite, in the kitchen. The menu is a daily tribute to traditional Portuguese cuisine, showcasing Portuguese comfort dishes such caldo verde (one of Portugal’s most iconic soups), galinha de cabidela (chicken rice with blood), chanfana (goat stew), cozido, and so many others.
A Provinciana’s rich history, combined with its commitment to providing a genuine taste of Portugal’s culinary traditions, makes it a unique spot for those seeking an authentic dining experience. It closes on Sundays but, during the week, you’ll see how this simple but much beloved restaurant is sought after by locals who know where the good food in Lisbon is at!
📍Tv. do Forno 23, 1150-193 Lisbon
www.facebook.com/RestauranteAProvinciana
Photo by NIT
Pato Real
Siblings José and Carlos Amaral run Pato Real, a legacy inherited from their father Agostinho. They’ve been thriving for years, thanks to their offerings of traditional Portuguese cuisine with generous servings that appeal to a diverse clientele, including professionals working nearby and students from the Nova University just across the street.
The daily lunch menu at Pato Real features a rotation of classic Portuguese dishes, including all-time favorites like bacalhau à Brás, carne de porco à alentejana (fried pork with clams), iscas de cebolada (liver with onions), cozido à portuguesa, leitão da Bairrada (spit-roast suckling pig), roasted pork shank, and pataniscas de bacalhau, among others. The food is good but what really makes Pato Real stand out is that the Amaral brothers pride themselves on maintaining the price point and quality set by their father, ensuring an unbeatable value for their offerings for several years now!
Desserts at Pato Real also stick to the classics, with options like arroz doce and leite creme. If you are into sweets, note that their pastéis de nata are larger than average, so no wonder these iconic custard tarts have become a favorite among patrons. So whether you come here for a cup of coffee and a sweet bite, for a proper lunch (to the contrary of most places, their menu do dia does include couvert!) or for a beer after work, you’ll see there’s a lot of people hanging out at Pato Real – and there are good reasons for it!
📍Av. de Berna 37, 1050-038 Lisbon
www.instagram.com/patorealrestaurante
Photo by Mygon
A Tasca do Gordo
A Tasca do Gordo is a quaint eatery founded back in 1982. It was previously highlighted on our Ajuda and Restelo Travel Guide for Food Lovers, not only because we personally love this spot, but because a lot of Lisbon residents do so too!
At A Tasca do Gordo you can expect genuine Portuguese dishes, served in a welcoming, unpretentious setting. While the menu may not be extensive, it focuses on what truly matters. Among the must-try dishes are the dobrada com feijão branco (tripe with white beans), naco à Gordo (a hearty beef cut prepared in the house’s unique style), and espetada de vaca (beef skewers), each offering a taste of authentic local flavors.
The real jewel of A Tasca do Gordo is its rear terrace, a lush space with several trees offering a perfect playground for children, making it an ideal spot for family dining, something that happens a lot around here during the weekends and particularly in the warmer months of the year. The interior is decorated with a red and white theme, evident in its scarves and even the tiles that match the wall colors, showcasing a spirited allegiance to its football preferences (Benfica!), though other teams’ scarves hint at a sense of fair play on match days. So not only is this a great spot for lunch, but also for a beer and some petiscos while catching a football match on TV with other folks from the neighborhood.
📍Rua dos Cordoeiros a Pedrouços 33, 1400-071 Lisbon
Photo by Maria on FourSquare
Tasca Zé dos Cornos
Tasca Zé dos Cornos is semi-hidden in a quaint alley between Rua da Madalena and Martim Moniz, and it has been a cherished spot in the heart of Lisbon for several years. This tasca, run by a family hailing from Ponte de Lima in Northern Portugal, is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, warm hospitality, and a homely atmosphere that bridges generations and social classes.
The restaurant is famed for its piano pork ribs, named for their shape rather than any musical connotation, and they are a testament to the establishment’s commitment to hearty, hands-on dining. Diners are encouraged to embrace the rustic charm of communal tables and wooden benches, diving into generous portions of specialties like the succulent entrecosto (ribs), the perfectly roasted bacalhau (cod), and the rich feijoada (bean stew) available on specific days of the week. Food at Tasca Zé dos Cornos tends to be very satisfying, so good luck to those who come here on their lunch break and must return back to work right after. If it is your case, an extra tip for an energy shot: to end your meal, order a café com cheirinho (coffee with scent, this is, an espresso with added brandy). If you are traveling in Lisbon, though, a meal at Zé dos Cornos will be perfect to energize you to go explore the neighborhood of Mouraria and Castelo right after.
Zé dos Cornos closes on Sundays and Mondays, so we recommend making the most of weekdays to head there for lunch, as in the evening they also stop serving fairly early (at least for Portuguese standards).
📍Beco Surradores 5, 1100-591 Lisbon
Photo by Se a Inês Sabe Disto
Maçã Verde
Maçã Verde, initially launched as Green Apple alongside the bustling Santa Apolónia train station, marked its beginning as a snack bar favored for its quick meals, catering to the fast-paced life of its patrons. The owners, José Carlos from Tábua, a town nestled between Viseu and Coimbra, and José Brandão from the northern Minho region, initially focused on offering toasts, burgers, and meat sandwiches, featuring innovative touches like a green apple purée burger.
However, in the late 1990s, Maçã Verde underwent a significant evolution, as it transitioned into a full-fledged restaurant dedicated to traditional Portuguese cuisine. This shift was also visually marked by replacing the English name with its Portuguese equivalent, maintaining the essence through apple-themed decorations. The change catered to a broader audience, moving beyond the grab-and-go fare to embrace more typical dishes from the Portuguese kitchen repertoire, such as chanfana, a traditional goat or lamb stew, polvo lagareiro style (octopus with olive oil), bacalhau (codfish) and secretos de porco preto (a specific cut of black pork). Despite the expanded menu and the shift towards more elaborate meals, Maçã Verde remains a beloved spot for a classic Portuguese dish, the bitoque. This simple yet satisfying meal, consisting of a steak topped with a fried egg, accompanied by chips and a special sauce, continues to draw patrons, whether they’re in a rush or seeking a taste of home.
If you are near Santa Apolónia’s station and would like to grab some lunch like many folks working around here do, save the apples for a later snack and indulge into a proper hot meal at Maçã Verde.
📍Rua Caminhos de Ferro 1100, 1100-486 Lisbon
www.facebook.com/p/Maçã-Verde-100070200601333
Photo by Journal i
Recanto Serrano
Recanto Serrano, nestled in one of Lisbon’s most charismatic old neighborhoods, Ajuda, exudes warmth and familiarity, becoming a celebrated spot for traditional Portuguese cuisine with a special nod to the culinary delights of Beira Baixa.
Since its opening in the 1980s, the menu at Recanto Serrano has been a homage to the rustic serrano (mountainous) cuisine. Among the specialties are dishes that celebrate the rugged terrain and robust flavors, such as arroz de carqueja à moda de Covilhã, a dish that highlights the aromatic and therapeutic boom bush (giesta), native to the Portuguese landscape. The hearty cabrito assado (roasted kid) and arroz de cabrito (kid rice) embody the traditional cooking methods that have been passed down through generations, while the cozido à Portuguesa rounds out the menu with a nod to Portugal’s national culinary identity. To end your meal on a sweet note, do not overlook the pudim da casa, a signature dessert featuring pumpkin, nuts, and bread.
Despite its hidden location, a gem tucked away between the more widely traveled paths of Lisbon, Recanto Serrano has established itself as a destination for locals who wish to enjoy this type of regional cuisine during the week, as well as for lunch on weekends. While they do welcome families on Sunday for midday meals, note that they are closed for dinner.
📍Calçada da Ajuda 206, 1300-017 Lisbon
www.facebook.com/SerranoRecanto
Photo by Expresso
Último Porto
Último Porto, once a hidden treasure now increasingly recognized, has found its niche within the historic confines of the Estação Marítima da Rocha do Conde de Óbidos, offering a splendid view of the Tejo alongside its array of traditional Portuguese dishes and charcoal-grilled delicacies. Its reputation was also enhanced by its favorable mention in our very own Alcântara Travel Guide for Food Lovers.
Tucked away among containers and cranes, “the last port” (this is how the name of this restaurant translates as) has mastered the art of charcoal grilled fish. Here, the fish is treated with the respect it deserves, enhanced on the grill, offering an honest feast of fresh flavors at fair prices in a city where such experiences are increasingly a rarity. As you can expect, this is something residents highly appreciate – we’re referring to both the high quality and the friendly value for money.
The familial atmosphere, contributed by the dedicated staff and the locale’s loyal patrons, envelops guests in a sense of belonging and shared appreciation for good, traditional food. For those seeking the best of what Último Porto has to offer, advice leans towards early reservations, especially on Saturdays, to secure the broadest selection of fish. On Sundays they are closed but, during the week, you’ll find yourself dining side by side with working folks who come here for a much deserved lunch break, enjoying not only the freshest seafood, but also a little bit of the fresh air one can still breathe around here.
📍Rua Gen. Gomes Araújo 1, 1350-352 Lisbon
www.instagram.com/ultimoportorestaurante
Photo by Mapstr
Adega da Tia Matilde
Adega da Tia Matilde has long been celebrated for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and its association with the legendary footballer Eusébio, who still holds a reserved table at this restaurant, as a sort of tribute to the sportsman who brought a lot of joy to Portuguese folks.
When it comes to the gastronomic experience, Tia Matilde’s place excels overall, but specially with dishes such as pataniscas (codfish cakes), hearty cozidos (Portuguese stew), filetes de garoupa (grouper filets), coelho à caçador (hunter’s style rabbit), bacalhau à Isabel (a signature codfish dish), and feijoada à transmontana (bean stew); as well as desserts like leite creme.
Adega da Tia Matilde has withstood the test of time, maintaining its reputation through the years for being old-school regarding food and service – and that is a compliment of the highest type in Lisbon, as confirmed by the large numbers of Lisboetas who come to dine here. The restaurant vibrates with the energy of business lunches, family gatherings, and loyal Benfica fans, creating a unique atmosphere that blends professional and familial ties. The owner, Tia Matilde’s son, continues to ensure that the legacy of warmth and quality endures, personally checking on guests whenever possible.
📍Rua da Beneficência 77, 1600-017 Lisbon
Photo by Time Out Lisboa
A Valenciana
A Valenciana, established in 1914, is a long-standing family-run business in Lisbon. Spanning three generations, it began with Homero Videira’s godfather before passing into the hands of his father, Luís Videira, who joined as an employee and eventually rose to become a managing partner. Now, at 76, Luís continues to serve tables, making clients happy with no more no less than some of the best peri-peri chicken in Lisbon.
A Valenciana has become renowned for its Portuguese charcoal-grilled dishes, with its barbecue chicken being a standout favorite. Situated in Campolide, a prime location near Parque Eduardo VII, Marquês de Pombal, and Amoreiras, A Valenciana has become a chosen spot for both tourism and business group lunches and dinners, as well as for parties and gatherings. Plus grilled chicken is one of those foods that most people like, so it’s an easy choice when you’re dining out with company, whether it’s adults or kids.
The restaurant has a main dining hall but also several cozy rooms available for group celebrations. Additionally, A Valenciana offers grilled chicken and takeaway meals, allowing patrons to enjoy their favorite dishes at home. Open daily until 11PM, with closures only on the evenings of December 24, 25, and January 1, it invites guests to savor a delightful meal almost literally any time the craving arises.
📍Rua Marquês de Fronteira 157 163A, 1070-294 Lisbon
Photo by NIT
Where Lisbon families go for lunch on weekends
Solar dos Presuntos
Solar dos Presuntos, situated near the Lavra elevator in downtown Lisbon, is an emblem of traditional Portuguese cuisine, making it a prime spot for both executive lunches during the week and family gatherings on weekends. Noted for its slightly upscale ambiance, with main dishes priced around 20/25 euros, it attracts a clientele that includes executives, some celebrities, and a harmonious blend of staff and regulars, all gathered in a setting that radiates joy.
Open since 1974, the year of the Portuguese revolution that brought us democracy, Solar dos Presuntos pays homage to the rich gastronomic traditions of Minho, a region known for its lush landscapes and hearty cuisine. The restaurant’s offerings are a testament to this heritage, with specialties like roast goatling, baked octopus, and several salt cod dishes. Seasonal delicacies, including rare finds like shad or lamprey speak of the menu’s connection to traditional flavors.
The restaurant’s interior is adorned with photos and caricatures of notable figures who have dined here, creating a rather historic and warm atmosphere. The addition of a premium wine cellar and a new terrace after Solar dos Presuntos’ renovation a few years ago, is perfect for relaxing and savoring this Lisbon restaurant’s tastes. We sincerely hope that Solar dos Presuntos stays open for many years to come, remaining the beloved culinary institution that it is and has already been for quite some time.
📍Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 150, 1150-269 Lisbon
Photo by Evasões
Dom Feijão
Dom Feijão, in the neighborhood of Alvalade, is a true reference of traditional Portuguese cooking, where the culinary know-how of the Minho region, more specifically of Paredes de Coura, shines through every dish. This restaurant prides itself on its dedication to authentic flavors, inviting diners into a space where satisfaction is guaranteed. Known for its hearty portions, diners can indulge in an array of comforting dishes, from a rich massada de peixe (fish pasta – which may not sound particularly Portuguese at first, but definitely is!) to the generously served polvo à lagareiro (octopus in olive oil), and a selection of expertly cooked meats and fish. As their own slogan indicates, they are also heavily dedicated to grilled dishes, including fresh fish and diverse cuts of meats.
Marked as a family-friendly destination, Dom Feijão is the perfect spot for meals that span generations, from grandparents to grandchildren, embodying a warm, inclusive atmosphere. However, due to its popularity, especially on weekends, making a reservation is advisable to secure a spot in this beloved establishment.
Dom Feijão stands out not just for its meticulous adherence to traditional recipes but also for the special ambiance crafted by a family dedicated to hospitality. The restaurant offers quality dining that some would argue could rival Michelin-starred establishments, thanks to its selection of premium ingredients and the value it provides across a range of budgets. With a stellar reputation, Dom Feijão is a place where the genuine essence of Portuguese cuisine is celebrated. Make sure to visit and enjoy a memorable feast!
📍Largo Machado de Assis 7D, 1700-116 Lisbon
Photo by Público
O Nobre
O Nobre is renowned for its authentic Portuguese cuisine with a distinct Transmontano influence. Under the guidance of legendary chef Justa Nobre, this restaurant has become a beloved spot not only for serving one of the best cozido à portuguesa in Lisbon, available every Sunday buffet-style, but also for its extensive menu that celebrates the richness of Portuguese culinary traditions throughout the week.
Beyond the popular cozido, the menu of O Nobre is a tribute to the hearty and flavorful cuisine of the Trás-os-Montes region. Dishes like oven-roasted salt cod stuffed with cured ham, or lamb carré with Port wine caramelized onions, just to name a couple, are all prepared with a contemporary twist that underscores chef Nobre’s creative prowess.
O Nobre’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal venue for family gatherings on weekends as well as a preferred choice for business lunches during the week. The restaurant caters to a diverse clientele, offering a comfortable setting where both small and large groups can enjoy a meal together. Whether it’s a leisurely Sunday lunch with loved ones or a quick(er) weekday meal, O Nobre’s blend of traditional flavors and hospitable service ensures a delightful dining experience for all.
📍Av. Sacadura Cabral 53B, 1000-080 Lisbon
Photo by Nuno P on TripAdvisor
A Casa do Bacalhau
A Casa do Bacalhau, nestled in the historic Beato, offers a deep dive into Portugal’s cherished salt cod tradition. Since opening its doors in 2000, this restaurant has become a sanctuary for bacalhau aficionados, dedicating nearly 90% of its menu to dishes crafted from this beloved fish. Under the stewardship of João Bandeira since 2011, A Casa do Bacalhau has not only maintained its reputation but enhanced it, clinching the title for Lisbon’s best pataniscas (flat salt cod fritters) in 2017.
João’s commitment to quality is unmatched: he personally travels to Iceland to oversee the selection of bacalhau, ensuring that only the best, sustainably caught fish makes it to the table. This dedication extends to the restaurant’s décor, with walls adorned with photographs of cod fishermen, adding a layer of authenticity and respect for the fish that has been Portugal’s fiel amigo (faithful friend) through centuries of history.
The menu at A Casa do Bacalhau is a perfect balance between time-honored classics and innovative dishes that showcase bacalhau’s versatility. Among the favorites we find bacalhau com broa (salt cod with cornbread), bacalhau à Zé do Pipo (oven-baked with a thick layer of mayonnaise), bacalhau com natas (au gratin with cream), and bacalhau à Brás (Lisbon’s very own cod recipe), just to name a few.
For families, particularly, the “Bacalhau para dividir” (cod to share) section is a highlight, offering larger and lesser common dishes such as cod and shrimp moqueca, rice with cod and cod tongues, bean and sames (swimming bladders) stew, and more. If someone in the group doesn’t really care for bacalhau (rare, but it happens) there are a few other dishes on the menu such as steaks, octopus and pasta.
📍Rua do Grilo 54, 1900-706 Lisbon
Photo by Bacalhau Fest
O Mercado
O Mercado, which translates as “the market” is a restaurant literally located inside the Rosa Agulhas market in the neighborhood of Alcântara. Despite its expansive size, O Mercado maintains a cozy, familiar atmosphere, often filled with locals who add to its welcoming vibe. The restaurant stays true to the roots of Portuguese culinary traditions, offering a straightforward menu that focuses on the quality and preparation of each dish. The display of fresh fish and meats at the entrance invites diners to choose from the day’s best offerings, ensuring that every meal is made from the finest ingredients.
The emphasis here is undoubtedly on seafood, with a strong recommendation to ask the staff for the day’s freshest catch for the grill. Yet, it’s the skillfully prepared dishes from the kitchen that truly shine, from the rich seafood rice to the succulent arroz de garoupa (grouper rice) with prawns or razor clams. Not to be overlooked, the side dishes like the exceptional bean rice elevate the main courses to new heights. Traditional favorites like bacalhau and octopus lagareiro, as well as the stew-like cataplana, showcase the restaurant’s know-how that justify a price perhaps a little above other restaurants with similar dishes. O Mercado offers homemade desserts that stay true to traditional and sweet conventual recipes, providing a sweet end to a hearty meal.
This is a delightful spot for families and friends to gather over generous servings of well prepared Portuguese cuisine. If you get too full dining here, know that you’re very near the riverfront, which is ideal for a post Sunday-lunch stroll!
📍Rua Leão de Oliveira 19, 1300-350 Lisbon
https://restauranteomercado.pt
Photo by O Mercado
Adega das Gravatas
The name Adega das Gravatas hints at the quirky yet charming custom where patrons, adorned in ties, may choose to contribute to the restaurant’s vast collection of ties (gravatas) displayed throughout, leaving in just their shirts if they wish to partake in this distinctive tradition. This practice has not only contributed to the restaurant’s identity but has also built a communal bond with its clientele over the years.
Renowned for its authentic Portuguese cuisine, especially its grilled dishes, Adega das Gravatas prides itself on serving hearty portions. Signature dishes such as bife na pedra, a substantial steak meant for sharing, octopus, Iberian black pork, and shrimp açorda, stand out, making it a favored spot for both leisurely and quick meals alike. This inviting eatery is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy generous servings of traditional Portuguese dishes in a setting that is as memorable for its atmosphere as it is for its food.
📍Tv. Pregoeiro 15, 1600-588 Lisbon
Photo by Olga Govorko on TripAdvisor
Laurentina
Laurentina, affectionately known as o rei do bacalhau or “the king of cod,” boasts a rich history that intertwines the culinary traditions of Portugal with a nod to Mozambican influences. Founded in 1976 by António Francisco Pereira, who had previously established a successful restaurant business in Lourenço Marques (now Maputo), Mozambique, Laurentina found its current home in Lisbon in 1987. This transition marked the continuation of a legacy that began in the vibrant streets of Alto Maé, cementing Laurentina’s status as a cherished gathering point for those who returned from Mozambique post-independence. The restaurant’s name, inspired by a popular beer brand in Mozambique before 1975, reflects its deep-rooted connection to Mozambican culture and the shared history between the two countries.
The dedication to cod is evident not just in the menu but also in the decor and thematic elements that adorn the restaurant, making it clear that here, cod reigns supreme. Laurentina’s specialty, couvada de bacalhau, hails from the Beira Baixa region, mirroring the founder’s origins, and is served in traditional clay pots. However, the menu shines with a variety of cod preparations, showcasing the versatility of this beloved cured fish. From the rich flavors of bacalhau especial, bacalhau com natas, to pataniscas de bacalhau and bacalhau à Brás, each dish is a testament to the culinary expertise that Laurentina brings to the table when salted cod is the main ingredient.
With a capacity to accommodate around 200 guests, Laurentina is an ideal spot for group dining, providing a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s convenient location, accessible via the Saldanha and São Sebastião metro stations, adds to its appeal. Open every day, Laurentina invites diners to experience the best of traditional Portuguese cuisine, with a focus on the king of the menu: bacalhau.
📍Av. Conde Valbom 71A, 1050-067 Lisbon
Photo by Taste Atlas
Solar dos Nunes
Solar dos Nunes, nestled in what once was an old grocery and wine house, has blossomed into a cherished emblem of traditional Portuguese cuisine since its foundation in 1988 by José Nunes and his wife Ana Luísa Nunes. Initially, Ana Luísa took the helm in the kitchen, setting the stage for the restaurant’s culinary journey. Today, the torch has been passed to their children, José António (affectionately known as “Zé Tó”) and Susana Nunes.
Solar dos Nunes has garnered widespread acclaim, evidenced by the numerous awards and press features adorning its walls. This family-run restaurant not only maintains the essence of a traditional Portuguese food house but also serves as a showcase for Alentejan flavors, offering a robust selection of Portuguese cured meats and sausages. The menu is a celebration of regional cuisine, with standout dishes like the sopa rica de peixe, a luxurious fish soup prepared in a stone pot, the açorda with salt cod, and caldo de cação (dogfish soup), echoing the warmth of a family dinner where guests are treated with genuine hospitality.
Solar dos Nunes has a solid reputation for offering a family-style Portuguese dining experience, one that gourmet families can enjoy during the weekend, but that is very much available for all sorts of meals during the week too.
📍Rua dos Lusíadas 68, 1300-366 Lisbon
Photo by FLASH!
Zé da Mouraria
Zé da Mouraria is celebrated for its straightforward, affordable, and utterly delicious codfish dishes. Tucked away in Mouraria, one of the city’s most quintessentially Lisbon neighborhoods, this eatery exudes a casual, welcoming atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists in search of genuine Portuguese flavors amidst the myriad of tourist-oriented spots.
At Zé da Mouraria, the menu shines with its emphasis on traditional Portuguese cuisine, especially noted for its meat steaks, grilled fish, and unique offerings like iscas à Portuguesa (liver steak) or grilled swordfish with shrimp. A highlight of their menu is the boiled codfish served in generous portions with chickpeas and batata a murro (punched potatoes) generously drizzled with olive oil, a dish so hearty (pictured here) it challenges the capacity of its serving platter. Following the cod, a typical move is to indulge in tender, well-seasoned garlic beef steaks, perfectly complemented by exceptional fries, to round off the meal.
The establishment encourages dining in groups to fully explore the menu, given the large portion sizes. Often greeted with queues, this restaurant has expanded its presence and it now has five locations. Long-standing patrons of Zé da Mouraria know to reserve a spot in advance and come without haste, embracing the inevitable wait with the promise of efficient service and the reward of a satisfying meal once seated. The restaurant’s interior, with its modest entrance leading to two crowded, windowless rooms connected solely by the kitchen, places the focus squarely on the food: high-quality ingredients, expertly seasoned, served in a no-frills setting.
While Zé da Mouraria has seen the opening of other locations by owner Virgílio, regulars assert that the original venue holds the soul of the experience, making it an indispensable stop for anyone wishing to experience a delicious (and much larger than average) serving of Lisbon’s gastronomic culture.
📍Rua João do Outeiro 24, 1100-292 Lisbon
www.instagram.com/ze_da_mouraria
Photo by Time Out Lisboa
Casa do Alentejo
Casa do Alentejo, housed within the historical Alverca Palace, is a monument to the rich cultural tapestry and architectural grandeur of Lisbon. Originally erected in the 1600s as the residence of the Paes de Amaral family or the Viscounts of Alverca, this building has traversed through time, serving various roles: from Lisbon’s first casino to a social club for the Alentejo community in 1932, thereby earning its current name.
Despite its evolution, the palace’s interior remains a breathtaking testament to its past. It’s worth visiting for the architecture alone, even if you do not end up eating here. The restaurant at Casa do Alentejo, located on the second floor, occupies two rooms, one featuring tile panels by Jorge Colaço and the other adorned with tiles from the 17th-century palace itself. Additionally, the ground floor hosts the Espaço Alentejo, with direct street access, and the Taberna da Casa do Alentejo on the first-floor patio, where tourists and locals alike can enjoy traditional Alentejan music along with migas, regional cheeses, toasts, and various snacks and daily dishes.
The main restaurant upstairs is a wonderfully unique venue, ideal for a family gathering or group lunch, indulging in some of the Alentejo’s most representative recipes, including but not limited to fried salt cod with chickpea migas (savory bread pudding), grilled Iberian black pork, and desserts like sericaia (an egg and cinnamon pudding served with a preserved plum from Elvas, in the Alentejo), toucinho-do-céu (a cake made from ground almonds, eggs and lard, thus affording it the name “bacon from heaven”), egg flan and more.
📍Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 58, 1150-268 Lisbon
https://casadoalentejo.pt/restaurante
Photo by USA Today
We hope lunch in Lisbon ends up taking you on a journey through flavors, traditions, and the warmth of local dining. Follow us on Instagram for more recommendations and insider tips to navigate Lisbon’s food scene as close as possible like a local! #tasteoflisboa
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