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Canned Sardines in Lisbon

By Gonzalo

Posted on December 6, 2023

The Silvery Treasures of the Sea: A Brief History of Canned Sardines:

Canned sardines, or “sardinhas em lata,” have been a staple of Portuguese cuisine for over a century. Their journey from the sea to the can is a testament to both tradition and innovation.

The practice of preserving sardines in cans began in the 19th century when Portuguese fishermen sought a way to extend the shelf life of their catches. This innovation allowed sardines to become a beloved year-round delicacy rather than a seasonal treat.

In Lisbon, the historic neighborhood of Alfama was once home to numerous canneries, earning it the nickname “The Canned Sardine Neighborhood.” These canneries, some of which are still in operation today, played a vital role in preserving this culinary tradition.

Where to Savor the Best Canned Sardines in Lisbon:

Conserveira de Lisboa:
- Located in the heart of Lisbon, this iconic shop has been preserving sardines for over 80 years. They offer a wide selection of beautifully packaged canned sardines in various flavors, making it an ideal place to purchase souvenirs and gifts.
Sol e Pesca:
- A charming seafood restaurant in the Cais do Sodré district, Sol e Pesca has a unique décor featuring walls adorned with vintage sardine tins. Here, you can enjoy a meal of freshly caught sardines along with an extensive selection of canned varieties.
O Cantinho Gourmet:
- This gourmet shop and wine bar in the Bairro Alto neighborhood offers a carefully curated selection of Portuguese products, including premium canned sardines. Pair them with local wines and cheeses for an authentic tasting experience.
Manteigaria Silva:
- A historic delicatessen in the Baixa district, Manteigaria Silva is a treasure trove of Portuguese culinary delights. Browse their selection of canned sardines, each can telling a story of Lisbon’s maritime heritage.
Casa Macario:
- Located in the historic Mouraria neighborhood, Casa Macario is a cozy shop that specializes in Portuguese canned goods. Here, you can explore a wide variety of canned sardines and other seafood delicacies.

A Modern Twist on Canned Sardines:

While savoring traditional canned sardines is a must, Lisbon’s culinary scene also offers innovative dishes that incorporate these silvery treasures. Many contemporary restaurants serve creative sardine-based dishes, from sardine pâté to gourmet sardine sandwiches.

Canned sardines are not just a culinary delight; they are a slice of Lisbon’s maritime history and a testament to the city’s enduring love affair with the sea. Whether you’re exploring the historic canneries in Alfama, picking up a souvenir tin from Conserveira de Lisboa, or indulging in gourmet sardine dishes at a local restaurant, your journey into the world of canned sardines is a voyage through tradition and taste.

So, when you visit Lisbon, don’t miss the chance to savor these tiny, flavorful fish that have been a cherished part of Portuguese culture for generations. They are a taste of the sea and a connection to the heart of this vibrant coastal city.

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Gonzalo

Founder & Owner at The Lisbon Guide

20 Years Experience
Travel Advisor & Passionate for Portugal

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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.

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