Lisbon for Foodies, What You Should Know Before You Go!
Lisbon for Foodies, What You Should Know Before You Go!
Planning a trip to Lisbon? For foodies, Portugal’s capital city is a paradise. Known for its authentic dishes, unique flavors, and vibrant food culture, Lisbon offers a culinary experience like no other. From the iconic custard tarts to savory seafood and traditional Portuguese comfort food, every meal here is a taste of Portugal’s rich history and local flavors. This guide covers everything you need to know about eating your way through Lisbon, the must-try dishes, and where to find the best bites!
Pastéis de Nata: Lisbon’s Must-Try Custard Tart
One of the most famous foods in Lisbon, Pastéis de Nata are a must-try! These creamy, caramelised custard tarts are baked in flaky pastry shells and served warm with a dusting of cinnamon and icing sugar. Make sure to visit Pastéis de Belém in the Belém district to try the original recipe, a favorite spot for locals and travelers alike. We will be learning how to make these on our foodie trip to Portugal in March 2024, please join us! Our recipe above is for Chinese Custard Tarts, which are not dissimilar and are in fact connected historically.
The Historical Link: Macao and the Influence of Portuguese Cuisine in Asia
The connection between these two treats dates back to Portugal’s influence in Asia, particularly in Macao, a former Portuguese colony. Portuguese settlers introduced pastéis de nata to the region, where it gained popularity and inspired local adaptations. Over time, Chinese bakeries began creating their own version, adapting the recipe to fit local preferences and ingredients.
The Chinese egg tart was born from these adaptations, with a simplified custard filling and a sturdier, shortcrust-style pastry. While the Portuguese version focuses on a rich, almost decadent flavor profile, the Chinese version aligns more with local tastes, favoring lightness and subtlety. I have yet to add a Portuguese custard tart to my recipes, but I do have a Chinese version linked below.
Conclusion
While Chinese egg tarts and pastéis de nata share a common origin, they have evolved into distinct treats that reflect their respective culinary traditions. Pastéis de nata are known for their caramelised, rich flavours with a flaky crust, embodying the indulgent essence of Portuguese cuisine. In contrast, Chinese egg tarts, with their tender shortcrust pastry and lighter custard, offer a more delicate, understated sweetness that appeals to the Asian palate. Together, they illustrate how a single recipe can transform and adapt across cultures, creating two famous pastries enjoyed around the world.
Bacalhau à Brás: Lisbon’s Beloved Codfish Dish
Salted cod, known as Bacalhau, is a cornerstone of Portuguese cuisine with countless variations. Bacalhau à Brás is shredded salted cod cooked with onions, garlic, potatoes, and parsley. It’s a true taste of Lisbon, packed with savory flavors that perfectly capture the essence of Portuguese cooking.
What is interesting to me about this dish is that I have eaten salted cod on a few occasions and have never really understood the appeal. But I think that was because it had not been prepared correctly. The dried (and ultra salty) cod is soaked and rinsed for days before being used as an ingredient in this dish. So if the time ever comes that I recreate it, this will be a labour of love!
Sardinhas Assadas: Grilled Sardines in Lisbon
A signature Lisbon food, Sardinhas Assadas are fresh, grilled sardines enjoyed especially in the summer, during the city’s popular Sardine Festival. These smoky, flavorful sardines are seasoned with salt and served with crusty bread. For an authentic experience, head to Time Out Market in Lisboa or a local eatery like Santo António de Alfama. The Alfama region is the oldest neighborhood of Lisbon dating back to the 1500's, spreading on the slope between the São Jorge Castle and the Tagus river and is packed with restaurants, bars and fado houses. Like Italy in some ways, the source of a lot of Portuguese famous dishes is the sea for obvious reasons.
Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato: Clams in Garlic and White Wine
Where to Try: Marisqueira Uma, A Cevicheria
Named after a 19th-century poet, Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato is a traditional Lisbon dish that celebrates the fresh clams sourced from the nearby Atlantic Ocean. The clams are cooked in garlic, olive oil, cilantro, and white wine, creating a fragrant broth that’s perfect for dipping bread. This light yet aromatic dish is a beautiful way to savor Lisbon’s coastal flavors.
Caldo Verde: Comfort in a Bowl
Where to Try: Adega da Tia Matilde, Solar dos Presuntos
A Portuguese favorite, Caldo Verde is a (sort of) green soup made with finely shredded collard greens, potatoes, and chouriço (Portuguese sausage). Traditionally enjoyed during festive celebrations, it’s also a comforting dish for any time of year. The richness of the sausage and the smooth texture of the potatoes make this a soul-soothing option. We had some on our trip at an amazing but homey venue, which I then based my recipe on.
Francesinha: Portugal’s Take on the Sandwich
Where to Try: O Trevo, Cervejaria Trindade
While the Francesinha is originally from Porto, it’s popular in Lisbon as well. Dubbed the Portuguese hangover sandwich, it points to the French Croque Monsieur which there is some discussion over which came first. This towering sandwich features layers of ham, sausage, and steak, covered with melted cheese and smothered in a spicy tomato and beer sauce. Often served with fries, Francesinha is ideal for those who enjoy hearty, indulgent meals.
Bifana: The Classic Portuguese Pork Sandwich
Where to Try: O Trevo, A Merendinha do Arco
For a quick yet flavorful bite, try a Bifana, a traditional Portuguese sandwich filled with marinated pork. The pork is tender and seasoned with garlic, paprika, and wine, giving it a rich, savory flavor. Served on a crusty roll, it’s a simple but delicious street food that captures the essence of Portuguese flavors.
8. Prego no Pão: Steak Sandwich with Portuguese Flair
Where to Try: Café Beira Gare, Mercado da Ribeira (no website, just great street food! They also do bifana.)
Another must-try Portuguese sandwich is the Prego no Pão, made with grilled steak, garlic, and sometimes cheese or a fried egg. Typically served in a soft roll, it’s a beloved choice for locals and tourists alike, offering a flavorful snack with an authentic Portuguese twist.
Ginjinha: Lisbon’s Sweet Cherry Liqueur
Where to Try: A Ginjinha, Ginjinha Sem Rival
To end your culinary journey, try a shot of Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur unique to Portugal. It’s traditionally served in a small shot glass, sometimes with a cherry at the bottom, and has a warm, sweet flavor. You’ll find dedicated Ginjinha bars throughout the city, perfect for a quick, authentic taste of Lisbon’s nightlife. We went to this one, it is very famous and Eduardino was very quick to pose for a photo. We also saw this being served from little chocolate cups, an even better idea!
Discover Lisbon’s Culinary Scene Beyond the Classics
While traditional dishes are essential to the Lisbon experience, the city is also a hub for culinary innovation. Many restaurants, like the Michelin-starred Belcanto (see pics below) and A Cevicheria, and the Michelin starred restaurant we have booked for our trip, Casa da Comida all offer creative takes on Portuguese cuisine. Lisbon’s evolving food scene brings exciting new flavors that foodies will love exploring.
Your Lisbon Food Adventure Awaits!
With so many incredible dishes to try, Lisbon is a food lover’s dream destination. From exploring local markets to indulging in famous Portuguese dishes, the city offers something for every taste. Make sure to plan your trip with these must-try dishes and top foodie destinations in mind. Whether you’re searching for where to eat in Lisbon or exploring Lisbon’s best foods, this guide will help you make the most of your culinary journey.
Be sure to bookmark this guide to have the ultimate foodie itinerary at your fingertips as you explore the vibrant, flavourful city of Lisbon.
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Tenina Holder
Tenina Holder is a wife, mother of five and grandmother of eight, who started cooking in the olden days before Thermomix was even a thing.
Tenina has become the premium go to source for all Thermomix expertise and of course fresh and easy recipes that work. Her cooking classes and foodie trips are sold out in literally hours, her cookbooks appear on the Australian best seller lists and her social reach is in the millions. Her Insider Club is the most fun you can have with a Thermomix and you really should join her! She believes chocolate, butter and salt are health foods. Her food positivity mantra is, eat everything, just not all at once!
