Lisbon Food Guide: Best Bites to Plan Your Day Around

As someone who loves food, and plans their day around what’s for lunch, Lisbon was a dream. From cozy cafes to bustling food halls, this city has it all. Here are a few of my favourite spots that I visited during my week-long trip.

Breakfast & Pastries

One of my go-to breakfast spots was Cafe Janis, a cozy cafe that served up delicious coffee and breakfast options. The shakshuka was a standout for me, and I paired it with a cortado to get my caffeine fix for the day. Plus, the cafe is super cute, with a boho-chic decor that makes it a great spot for photos.

Another notable, though maybe surprising stop, was Flat Cafe. A tiny little place offering coffee and Scandinavian dishes. The owner is really friendly, the food delicious and it leaves you feeling satisfied and healthy. We managed to snag a little table inside as it started to rain one morning, and opted for one of their open toasts. I'm not one for lots of meat or salads in the morning, but these were so fresh and photogenic, I couldn't resist. I recommend a stop here if you're staying in the area, it'll fuel you up for the day.

Lunch

If you're looking for a variety of food options, head to the Time Out Market in the Cais do Sodre neighbourhood. This bustling food hall has tons of food stalls offering everything from seafood to doughnuts to pizza. It was hard to choose just one thing, so I ended up trying a few different stalls throughout the trip. The fresh seafood from Marisqueira Azul was a standout for us, and the pizza from ZeroZero was also delicious.

As I mentioned, seafood isn't really my thing. But I did come across a must-visit spot for sardines (and bread with olive oil for me) in Lisbon's charming Alfama neighborhood: Lisbon Tu e Eu. This hidden gem is tucked away in a quaint square and covered in writing from visitors who have had their own amazing experiences there. The staff are incredibly welcoming, and it's clear that they want every guest to have the best possible time in Lisbon. In my opinion, the best way to really experience a place is to eat like a local. And at Lisbon Tu e Eu, you'll be doing just that. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of port and leave your mark by signing the table or wall. Trust me, this is a dining experience you won't want to miss!

Of course, no trip to Lisbon would be complete without trying a pastel de nata, the famous Portuguese egg tart. We headed to Pasteis de Belem one afternoon while visiting some of the main attractions in the neighbourhood, and it did not disappoint. The flaky, buttery crust paired perfectly with the creamy egg custard filling. It's the perfect snack. While it can get busy here, the lines move quickly and the tarts are definitely worth the wait. You can also buy a box to take with you and enjoy throughout the day - I can say that we probably had more than our fair share during the week!

Dinner

By the Wine, located in the Bairro Alto neighbourhood, was a standout for me. This restaurant has a unique and eye-catching design, with walls covered in empty wine bottles that give the space a sleek and modern feel. The menu was extensive and offered something for everyone, with mouth-watering dishes like charcuterie boards, seafood, and small plates. The wine list is equally impressive, with a wide selection of Portuguese and international wines to choose from. Ask the bar staff for wine pairing recommendations to take your meal to the next level. We tried everything from tuna tartare to steak to pork belly. You really can’t go wrong here. Be prepared to spend a bit of time here, ordering as you go and sharing everything.

For a more casual and affordable option, head to Bonjardim in the Baixa neighbourhood. This no-frills restaurant specializes in roast chicken, which is served with crispy fries and a salad. The chicken is perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the portions are generous. It's a great option for a satisfying and filling meal that won't break the bank.

Overall, Lisbon's food scene exceeded my expectations. From restaurants to hole-in-the-walls, there was something for every palate and every budget. These are just a few of my personal favourites, but there are plenty of other great restaurants and cafes to discover in the city. I can't wait to go back to explore further and expand my Lisbon food guide.