A Tastemakers Guide to Culinary Treasures | Lisbon
The best dining spots in Lisbon
By The Bearleaders
A Cevicheria, Lisbon | Tip by Jorane Cuppen, Gastronomist
Be guided to the finest culinary treasures of Lisbon by The Bearleaders. Discover where they go when they visit Lisbon. From fine dining at Michelin-starred classics to hidden gems and local legends, these tastemakers will surely take you to the best restaurants Lisbon offers.
Where to eat
BELCANTO
Simply one of the best restaurants in the world, Chef José Avillez’s stunning creations have earned him two Michelin stars. His cooking is a study of Portuguese culinary history and as romantic as the cosy environment in which it is served.
Make no mistake though: there are a lot of surprises here, with seasonal ingredients and playful textures that are as innovative as they are exciting. They are also the proud owners of a prestigious wine selection that boasts everything from exclusive Portuguese vintages to exciting new offerings from around the globe; hence a wine-pairing menu is a must.
EPUR
Like Belcanto, this restaurant is situated in Lisbon's beautiful old center. It boasts impressive views over the city and the sea, and its interior feels as minimalist and pure as the dishes.
Chef Vincent Farges has received one Michelin star for this restaurant, with elegantly designed and highly focused cooking. Each plate is beautifully dressed and aims to present a maximum of three flavours distinctively and honestly.
While technically impressive, it is ultimately the emotional impact of food that matters at Epur.
CERVEJARIA RAMIRO
Finding a beer hall in a culinary guide might seem strange, but make no mistake: this is so much more than a simple ‘cervejaria’.
An institution since 1956. Ramiro serves the freshest seafood in all shapes and sizes. It is the best seafood restaurant in Lisbon, offering everything from small servings of perfectly seasoned oysters to lobster and crab by the kilo.
Don’t feel like seafood but still want to experience the atmosphere? Their steak sandwich is also legendary.
Do prepare to stand in line though: ever since being promoted by the late great Anthony Bourdain, the already popular restaurant has been packed.
JNCQUOI AVENIDA
Portuguese food in an interior that is anything but traditional. From the giant dinosaur that takes the central stage to the grand layout and fashionable crowd, this place is worth a visit just for the environment. Or just go here for an aperitif.
PINOQUIO
This seafood restaurant has been a Lisbon classic since the 1980s. Their clams and crustaceans are fresh, pure and cooked to perfection.
A CEVICHERIA
A restaurant as humble as the name suggests. But what it lacks in frills, it makes up for in flavour, freshness, and quality of ingredients.
Sit down at the intimate round table and taste the fantastic Peruvian-Asian-Portuguese fusion from the hands of legendary Brazilian-Portuguese chef Francisco Martins (better known as Chef Kiko).
TASCA DA ESQUINA
Tapas as reinvented by chef and local legend Vítor Sobral. Stellar presentation and surprising flavours mixed with an informal, café-like setting.
SÁLA
Coming here feels as if chef João Sá has welcomed you into his living room. This intimate restaurant with a young team creates stunning dishes that nevertheless feel home-cooked.
Fresh, organic produce from local farms is turned into seasonal dishes that are surprisingly vegetable-oriented, making this a great restaurant not just for carnivores but for vegetarians looking for a fine dining experience as well.
ESSENCIAL
This incredibly creative restaurant serves various contemporary dishes focused on meat and fish, but what is most surprising is its work combining these with pastries.
From sea urchin tartar to foie gras cakes, chef André Lança Cordeiro bravely challenges traditions and turns classic dishes into his own.Now is the time to experience this legendary place before its popularity increases.
PRADO
A genuine farm-to-table concept from the mind of chef António Galapito. The fresh contemporary surroundings - a converted fish canning factory - perfectly mirror the food: relaxed, fresh and honest.
Paired with a selection of bio-dynamic and organic wines, this is the place to enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner among a hip crowd.
MINI BAR
This hidden spot is led by Michelin-starred chef José Avillez. It is hidden in the back of his Bairro do Avillez restaurant complex, and you must go through the last door to get there. The food is fun, playful, and colourful without neglecting taste.
Find the edible part of the inedible presentation – molecular cuisine is going on. The quirky and cosy interior suits the vibe and food, almost making it feel like a theatre.
Combine your dinner with a visit to Toca da Raposa for after-dinner cocktails. Reservations required.
instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist, Jorane Cuppen
PASTÉIS DE BELEM
If you say Lisbon, you must have Pastéis de nata for breakfast (or as a snack, for lunch or dinner).
It’s a small custard cake covered with cinnamon and sugar traditionally eaten next to your morning coffee. Order it and start walking through the city.
If you want the real, authentic Pastéis de nata, you must go to Pastéis de Belem. It’s a bit out of the centre, but it’s worth it.
instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist, Jorane Cuppen
MANTEIGARIA
For moments when you don’t want to leave the city centre, Manteigaria is a good second choice for pastéis de nata.
O FRADE
When you’ve visited Pastéis de Belem, you’re close to O Frade. It’s a gastro bar where you can sit outside or at a common bar in the middle of the venue. Good, authentic but modern food is served with knowledge and enthusiasm. It's a true ode to Portuguese food.
instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist, Jorane Cuppen
ZUNZUM GASTROBAR
The perfect place to have lunch is in the garden, which is situated next to the cruise ships. That sounds way worse than it is—the quiet terrace with a large lawn offers the perfect amount of sun and shade.
Relish the amazing, light, and modern food served here. The flavourful combinations make you forget the time when enjoying them with friends or even during a business lunch.
instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist, Jorane Cuppen
PONTO FINAL
I can’t say no to this all-time classic. Everyone who has been to Lisbon has been to this quiet place located almost in the Taag, on the other side of the bridge. It’s known for its tables filled with seafood and unbeatable views.
instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist Jorane Cuppen
ARKHE
An all-vegetarian restaurant that can surprise all meat lovers! Great and affordable wine list – be advised by the knowledgeable staff. The level of service is high. The restaurant is decorated with all-natural materials and a lot of plants, which make you feel at ease in a second. Go for their changing menu to taste as much of present-day cooking as possible.
Also, the road to the restaurants from the city centre is a stunning walk.instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist Jorane Cuppen
Where to go for a drink
MONKEY MASH
This is a great speak-easy cocktail bar hidden away in a basement. Honestly, it doesn’t feel like that at all. The young vibe is reflected in the menu, where you can find something for everyone. The interior is colourful and vibrant.
They also have a selection of tacos and other snacks.
instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist, Jorane Cuppen
TOCA DA RAPOSA
In terms of quality, it is the best cocktail bar in town. The almost chef-minded approach to making cocktails results in very technical, unusual combinations and cocktails. The place makes you feel like you’re back in the stone age, as it looks like a cave.
Be surprised by the creativity.
instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist, Jorane Cuppen
PHARMACIA FELICIDADE
A good spot to have a cocktail and some tasty snacks. Sit on the chairs on the ‘lawn’, relax and get planning for the night while ordering some of their refreshing cocktails and juicy finger food. The views across the street are brilliant, as well as the outlook you have from the Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina hotel.
instagram | maps | recommended by Gastronomist, Jorane Cuppen
What to do
LX FACTORY
Nice place to see art, as there are ateliers with different artists exhibiting their work. Don’t be afraid to go all the way up inside the building! There are some shops where you can buy artistic and fun gadgets too.
You can also have a bite to eat, throw hammers, crash a party or walk in and out on your way to the Pastéis de Belem.
instagram | maps | Recommended by Gastronomist Jorane Cuppen.
STEPS
Although the city has many height differences, an excellent way to explore is by step. Rent it, take it and put it next to the sideway again. Walk a little bit, and take another step.
Google Maps is your best friend. Recommended by Gastronomist Jorane Cuppen.
STREET ART
There is a lot of street art in Lisbon. Almost everywhere you look, you can find various pieces—big and small. Tip: Get some of the pottery or tiles that are still made authentically!
Recommended by Gastronomist Jorane Cuppen
