A Foodie's Guide to Lisbon

There is no shortage of things to do in Lisbon, but if your main focus is on eating and drinking until your heart is content, here is your guide.

• Go on a local food tour: If you’re short on time or just want to maximize the amount of restaurants you can try during your trip, I highly suggest taking a food tour. There are so many options to choose from, but I would suggest doing one in the Moorish Quarter. It is the city’s oldest neighborhood. Enjoy a blend of local eats and historic story-telling.

• See a fado show: Fado is a genre of Portuguese folk music that is often performed in cozy restaurants over a traditional Portuguese dinner. For the most authentic experience, I would head straight to Dona Amalia in the Moorish Quarter. It’s intimate, moody and the fado is chilling.

• Sunset wine sailing: There’s no better way to end a long day than with a little sea breeze and gorgeous views. Climb aboard a sailboat and enjoy a chill cruise down the Tagus River while sipping vinho verde and snacking on cured meats and cheeses. A total vibe.

• Visit local markets: Lisbon is home to so many amazing markets. On Saturdays, the streets are booming with vendors selling everything from seasonal produce, to smoked chorizo and boozy sangrias (yes, it’s one of those cities). My favorite market is a farmer’s market called Mercado Biológico do Principe Real, but always be on the lookout for pop-ups!

Lisbon has a million great restaurants, and a single trip won’t be enough to even scratch the surface of what’s possible. However, if I had to choose, these are a few of the restaurants that would be at the top of my list.

• Lisboa Tu e Eu: This is your go-to for traditional Portuguese food in a cozy setting. They don’t take reservations so you’ll need to arrive early to snag a table for dinner time, but the sardines and octopus salad are so worth it!

• Sofia’s Place: Here, you’ll find a menu that is inspired by different cultures within the African diaspora. It is unexpected and absolutely delicious. The atmosphere is warm and intimate. The owner, Sofia, is a Cape Verdean chef that takes pride in making sure every single guest feels welcome and leaves fed.

• Alfama Doce: This little bakery in Alfama is home to the best pastel de natas in the city (and believe me—I have tried a bunch). The steep walk up the hill is 100 percent worth it, and you can try other local sweets while you’re there. It’s a 10/10 for your sweet tooth.

• Heim Cafe Santos: A quirky brunch spot in the Santos neighborhood. Think elevated presentation and unexpected twists on brunch classics. I am not even joking when I say they have oreo pancakes and green eggs!

• Time Out Market: If you have been researching Lisbon, you have probably heard of Time Out Market. While this experience can come off as being “touristy”, I think it’s one of those things that is worth the hype. You’ll find everything here, from grilled octopus, to oysters to specialty marmalades and nata flavored gelato.

• Hachiko Ramen: A bit off the beaten track, Hachiko Ramen is your savior when your palette is craving something—well, not Portuguese. This little ramen bar in Mouraria is easily some of the best ramen I have eaten in my entire life. Formed by a Japanese chef, you’ll find over a dozen different varieties of ramen on their menu, including vegetarian friendly options.

• Pitcher Cocktails: Located along the River Tagus, this little cocktail stand sells you fresh pina coladas in a real pineapple. Once you purchase one, you get free refills for the rest of the day!

• Cafe O Corvo: One of my favorite lunch-time cafes. This little restaurant in Alfama has an antique vibe and contemporary menu items crafted from traditional Portuguese ingredients. The escabeche de sardinha is an absolute must.