Lisbon, the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, is not just about picturesque lanes and historic trams; it’s a city where food is an art form, and dining is a celebration. The city’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape, offering everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to innovative fusion cuisine. Here, I present to you the best five restaurants in Lisbon, each unique in its way, promising an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
1. O Faia
Description: Nestled in the lively Bairro Alto district, O Faia stands as a testament to Lisbon’s rich culinary traditions. Renowned for its authentic Portuguese cuisine, the restaurant has been delighting patrons since 1947. The ambiance is classic and inviting, with live Fado performances adding a touch of local culture to your dining experience.
Amenities: Live Fado music, outdoor seating, private dining options.
Description: A two Michelin-starred gem in the historic Chiado neighborhood, Belcanto is Chef José Avillez’s culinary masterpiece. The restaurant offers an avant-garde take on Portuguese cuisine, where each dish tells a story. The interiors are elegantly designed, providing a luxurious and intimate dining experience.
Description: Merging traditional seafood market vibes with contemporary dining, Sea Me is a unique concept restaurant in Chiado. It’s known for its fresh seafood and sushi, blending Portuguese and Japanese culinary techniques. The atmosphere is vibrant and modern, perfect for a casual yet sophisticated dining experience.
Amenities: Seafood and sushi bar, open kitchen, takeaway options.
Description: This bistro-style restaurant by Chef Ljubomir Stanisic is all about innovation and creativity. Located in Bairro Alto, 100 Maneiras offers a no-menu concept where the chef surprises you with an array of inventive dishes. The ambiance is chic and cozy, with a focus on sustainability and zero waste.
Description: Chef Kiko Martins brings the flavors of Peru to Lisbon with A Cevicheria. Located in the trendy Príncipe Real neighborhood, this restaurant is famous for its fresh and vibrant ceviches. The decor is quirky and inviting, with a giant octopus sculpture dominating the ceiling, adding to the maritime theme.
Amenities: Specialized in ceviche, outdoor seating, lively atmosphere.
Lisbon’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Each of these restaurants offers a unique experience, whether you’re looking for traditional flavors or innovative culinary creations. From the classic ambiance of O Faia to the avant-garde elegance of Belcanto, the laid-back vibe of Sea Me, the creative surprises of 100 Maneiras, and the exotic tastes of A Cevicheria, Lisbon caters to every palate. Make sure to reserve in advance as these popular spots are often booked up, especially during peak tourist seasons. Happy dining in Lisbon!
Passionate traveler, travel planner, private tour guide, and travel article writer in Portugal. Owner of The Lisbon Guide with more than 250.000 pages visited every year (5 million views in 12 years)
I'm based in Lisbon/Portugal and experienced in travel planning, tour guiding, and entrepreneurship since 1996, and guiding customers for over 20 years across Portugal. Helping customers from all over the world, planning their stay in Portugal. I'm also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide, assisting thousands of travelers yearly to plan their perfect trip.
*Disclaimer: All articles on this website express solely my opinion, and some services can be provided directly by myself, or through any partner.
