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Timeout Market’s Food Magic: A Gourmet Experience in Lisbon

By Gonzalo

Posted on October 21, 2023

Timeout Market Lisbon: A Gastronomic Paradise in Portugal’s Capital

In the heart of Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, lies a foodie’s paradise that has become a must-visit destination for every traveler. The Timeout Market Lisbon, also known as Mercado da Ribeira, is a unique gastronomic hub that brings together the city’s best food and cultural experiences under one roof. This article will delve into the history and facts about this iconic market and highlight some of its most popular options.

History of Timeout Market Lisbon

The Timeout Market Lisbon has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. Originally, it was a shipyard where ships were built during the Age of Discoveries. In the late 1800s, it was transformed into a traditional market, Mercado da Ribeira, where locals would come to buy fresh produce, fish, and meat.

In 2014, the market underwent a significant transformation when Time Out Lisbon magazine decided to create a new concept: a food and cultural market that would bring together the best of Lisbon. The idea was to have top chefs, restaurants, and cultural experiences in one place, making it easier for locals and tourists to experience the best of the city. Today, Timeout Market Lisbon is a thriving gastronomic hub that attracts millions of visitors each year.

Facts about Timeout Market Lisbon

– The market spans over 75,000 square feet and houses more than 40 restaurants, bars, and shops.
– It is located in Cais do Sodré, a trendy neighborhood in Lisbon known for its vibrant nightlife.
– The market is open seven days a week, from 10 am until midnight (or 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays).
– It was named one of the world’s best food halls by Food & Wine magazine in 2017.
– The market attracts over 3.6 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited spots in Lisbon.

Most Popular Options at Timeout Market Lisbon

The Timeout Market Lisbon offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international dishes. Here are some of the most popular options:

– Sea Me: This is a seafood restaurant that combines traditional Portuguese seafood with Japanese influences. Their specialty is the “peixe no pão” (fish in bread), a delicious sandwich filled with fresh fish and homemade sauces.

– Manteigaria: Known for their pastéis de nata, a traditional Portuguese custard tart, Manteigaria is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their tarts are made fresh throughout the day, and you can even watch the process from the counter.

– Marlene Vieira: This stall is run by one of Portugal’s top female chefs, Marlene Vieira. She offers a modern take on traditional Portuguese dishes, with options like codfish with cornbread and olive oil or pork belly with clams.

– Asian Lab: For those craving Asian flavors, Asian Lab offers a variety of dishes from different Asian cuisines. Their menu includes options like Thai green curry, Vietnamese pho, and Japanese ramen.

– Confraria: If you’re a sushi lover, Confraria is the place to go. They offer a wide range of sushi and sashimi options, as well as other Japanese dishes.

– Santini: No visit to Timeout Market Lisbon would be complete without trying some gelato from Santini. This iconic gelato shop has been serving delicious gelato since 1949 and offers a variety of flavors, from classic options like chocolate and vanilla to unique flavors like port wine and cheese.

In addition to these food options, Timeout Market Lisbon also hosts cooking workshops, wine tastings, and cultural events, making it a vibrant hub of activity at all times.

In conclusion, Timeout Market Lisbon is more than just a food market. It’s a place where you can experience the best of Lisbon’s food and culture in one place. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or a traveler looking to explore the local scene, Timeout Market Lisbon is a must-visit destination. So next time you find yourself in Lisbon, make sure to take some time out at the Timeout Market.

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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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