Lisbon, Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a haven for food and drink connoisseurs. We are by no means experienced foodies but we embarked on a culinary journey through Lisbon, exploring its vibrant food scene, from traditional markets to chic restaurants and iconic streets. Join us as we share our honest, unfiltered reviews of some of Lisbon’s most notable eating and drinking spots.
TimeOut Market: A Gastronomic Wonderland
Nestled in the heart of Lisbon, TimeOut Market is a must-visit for any food enthusiast. This bustling market is a unique blend of traditional food stalls and a curated eatery concept, bringing together a diverse range of Lisbon’s best chefs and restaurants under one roof.
Our Experience
As we stepped into the market, the vibrant atmosphere immediately captivated us. The array of options was overwhelming, from fresh seafood to tantalizing pastries. We sampled a variety of dishes, each bursting with flavors that are quintessentially Portuguese.
You really can’t go wrong in this market as there is something for everyone, no matter how picky they are. Croquettes are a Portuguese staple, so those are a must-try for anyone new to the country. You also can’t go wrong with anything that has Iberico pork! Of course, given Lisbon’s coastal geography, you have to get some seafood because it is so fresh and the famous chefs all have their own unique take on it while honouring the ingredients.
The communal seating arrangement added to the experience, allowing us to mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Amidst the lively chatter, we savored each bite, gaining a deeper appreciation for Lisbon’s culinary diversity.
For more on what we tried at the TimeOut Market, see our full review.
Can the Can: An Ode to Canned Food
Can the Can, an innovative restaurant located in Lisbon’s bustling downtown, redefines the art of canned food. This chic eatery elevates the humble canned sardine to a gourmet experience, showcasing the best of Portugal’s traditional conservas (canned goods).
Our Experience
While walking down the boardwalk of the Tagus River, we stopped to check out the public square Praca do Comercio. It is must see if you are visiting Lisbon with its breathtaking architecture, including the covered arches that surround the square containing many shops and restaurants.
We dined for breakfast and took in sun on the patio with refreshingly fresh drinks like hibiscus lemonade and carrot, orange and ginger juice. Eggs benedict topped with fresh arugula were cooked differently (but better!) than we were used to, with vinegar used to boil them we suspected.
There was also freshly baked bread with a sunny-side up egg, avocado and assortment of seeds was a healthy and delicious way to fuel up for the day. It may have been the best breakfast we had all trip.
We wish we had time to come back for dinner even though we were skeptical about dining at a restaurant centered around canned food. It certainly wasn’t evident on their breakfast menu. The inventive menu looked very unique with a range of dishes incorporating high-quality canned fish and beautifully presented. It’s a testament to the creativity and innovation in Lisbon’s culinary scene.
A Ginjinha Registada: A Taste of Tradition
No visit to Lisbon is complete without trying Ginjinha, a traditional Portuguese cherry liqueur. A Ginjinha Registada, a tiny, unassuming bar located near Rossio Square, is famous for serving this sweet, potent drink. You may have seen it on No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain.
Our Experience
The charm of A Ginjinha Registada lies in its simplicity and authenticity. The bar, with its old-world feel, offers a genuine taste of Lisbon’s traditional drinking culture. There is no room to sit, so you just grab your drink from the bar and step outside to enjoy.
The Ginjinha was served in a small shot glass, rich in flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and alcohol. You can get it with our without the sour cherries in the bottom. Only one of us managed to finish the cherries, while the other found the drink strong enough to light a fire in their belly. We will warn you, it is a bit strong if you are not a big liquor drinker.
Sipping on this iconic drink, surrounded by locals enjoying their daily tipple, was a culturally immersive experience. There were no tourists there other than us and true to Anthony Bourdain’s experience, locals surrounded the entrance conversing with drink in hand.
It’s a must-try for anyone wanting to experience a slice of Lisbon’s history.
Pateo at Bairro Do Avillez: A Culinary Haven
Pateo at Bairro Do Avillez, nestled in the trendy Chiado district, is a culinary gem spearheaded by renowned Portuguese chef José Avillez. This restaurant is a celebration of Portuguese seafood, offering an innovative take on traditional dishes.
Our Experience
The ambiance of Pateo, with its elegant yet relaxed setting, set the stage for a memorable dining experience…both good and bad.
Pateo is two level restaurant that mimics outdoor dining with skylights creating a beautiful atmosphere. It is part of a larger complex known as Bairro Do Avillez with other restaurant concepts from José Avillez like Taberna and Pizzeria Lisboa.
The menu was a delightful exploration of Portuguese flavors, with each dish beautifully crafted and bursting with freshness. As it was a seafood-first restaurant, we started with a couple of appetizers and most enjoyed the sea bass marinated with lime and coriander garnished with avocado and red onion.
We aren’t big seafood guys so we needed to get our meat fix for our mains! The chicken piri-piri and duck leg cured and confit showcased the chef’s skill in elevating simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces.
Regrettably, the service was not up to our expectations, especially for such a famous chef and restauranteur. They were very short-staffed and the server was friendly, our they were simply overwhelmed and it showed. It took 3 hours from the time we sat down until we finally paid our bill…and we didn’t order dessert!
Hopefully, the service issues get sorted out because the food and wine were delicious.
Pink Street: Lisbon’s Vibrant Nightlife Hub
Once a red-light district, Pink Street in the Cais do Sodré area has transformed into one of Lisbon’s most dynamic nightlife spots. Known for its pink-paved road, this street is lined with bars, clubs, and eateries, offering a lively night out.
Our Experience
Strolling down Pink Street, we were enveloped by the energetic pulse of Lisbon’s nightlife. The eclectic mix of venues catered to all tastes, from trendy cocktail bars to traditional fado houses. We enjoyed exploring the different establishments, each with its unique character and offerings.
Whether you spend the night on one of the rooftop bars sipping cocktails under the stars, or grab a pint on a patio to watch the bustling crowd party. Pink Street is a testament to Lisbon’s ever-evolving and vibrant cultural landscape. If you are looking to party, Pink Street is the place to go in Lisbon.
Rua Augusta: A Stroll Through Lisbon’s Heart
Rua Augusta, a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare, runs from the grand arch at Praça do Comércio to Rossio Square. Lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, it’s the pulse of Lisbon’s city life.
Our Experience
Walking down Rua Augusta, we were charmed by its lively atmosphere and historic architecture. The street’s cafes and pastelarias (pastry shops) offered the perfect spots to indulge in Lisbon’s famed pastries, like the pastel de nata, otherwise known as the Portugese custard tart. The outdoor seating allowed us to enjoy our treats while people-watching and soaking in the vibrant street life.
The street performers added a cultural dimension to our stroll, with music and performances reflecting Lisbon’s artistic soul. Rua Augusta provided a delightful blend of culinary delights, shopping, and entertainment, encapsulating the essence of Lisbon’s city life.
Conclusion
Lisbon, with its rich culinary tapestry, offered us an unforgettable journey of flavors and experiences. As novice travelers, we were thrilled to dive into the city’s food culture, discovering hidden gems and iconic spots alike. From TimeOut Market’s bustling energy to the intimate charm of A Ginjinha Registada, each location contributed to our understanding and appreciation of Lisbon’s diverse culinary landscape.
Whether you’re a foodie, a cultural enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Lisbon’s eating and drinking scene promises a journey of discovery and delight. Our adventure in this enchanting city was not just about tasting food and drinks; it was about immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture, history, and spirit of Lisbon. We left with our taste buds tantalized, our hearts full, and our minds enriched, already dreaming of our next culinary escapade.