Top Foods to Eat in Lisbon: A Travey Club Guide

Lisbon is a city best explored one bite at a time. From flaky pastries fresh out of the oven to soulful seafood dishes passed down through generations, Portugal’s capital is a dream destination for food lovers.

At Travey Club, we believe food is one of the most powerful ways to connect with a place—and Lisbon does not disappoint. Whether you’re eating at a humble neighborhood tasca or a buzzing modern market, here are the top foods you must try in Lisbon to truly taste the city.

Pastel de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tart)

Let’s start with the icon. The pastel de nata is crisp on the outside, creamy on the inside, and dangerously addictive.

The most famous version comes from Pastéis de Belém, made from a secret recipe dating back to the 1800s. Served warm and dusted with cinnamon, it’s a Lisbon ritual.

Travey Tip: Eat it fresh out of the oven—standing outside like a local.

Bacalhau (Salt Cod)

Portugal is obsessed with bacalhau—and for good reason. Legend says there are 365 ways to cook it, one for every day of the year.

Popular versions include:

• Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with eggs and potatoes)
• Bacalhau com Natas (baked with cream)
• Bacalhau à Lagareiro (olive oil, garlic, potatoes)

Travey Tip: Don’t judge Portuguese food until you’ve tried bacalhau done right.

Grilled Sardines

Simple, smoky, and full of flavor, grilled sardines are a Lisbon staple—especially in summer.

Served with bread, salad, and a squeeze of lemon, this dish captures the essence of Portuguese coastal cuisine.

Travey Tip: If you visit in June during the Santos Populares festival, sardines are everywhere—and even better.

Bifana (Portuguese Pork Sandwich)

The bifana is proof that simple food can be unforgettable. Thin slices of marinated pork, cooked in garlic and spices, stuffed into a soft roll.

It’s cheap, fast, and wildly satisfying.

Travey Tip: Pair it with a cold beer for the ultimate Lisbon street-food moment.

Seafood Rice (Arroz de Marisco)

This dish is closer to a stew than rice—rich, tomato-based, and overflowing with shrimp, clams, crab, and lobster.

It’s comforting, messy, and meant to be shared.

Travey Tip: Order this when you’re hungry—and not in a rush.

Polvo à Lagareiro (Octopus with Olive Oil)

Octopus is big in Portugal, and polvo à lagareiro is a standout. Roasted until tender, then drenched in olive oil with garlic and potatoes.

Surprisingly delicate and incredibly flavorful.

Travey Tip: If you think you don’t like octopus, try it here—you might change your mind.

Caldo Verde

This traditional soup is made with potatoes, kale, olive oil, and slices of chouriço sausage.

Simple, hearty, and deeply comforting—especially in the evening.

Travey Tip: Locals often order caldo verde as a starter before a long dinner.

Petiscos (Portuguese Small Plates)

Portugal’s answer to tapas, petiscos are perfect for tasting a little bit of everything.

Popular petiscos include:

• Cheese and cured meats
• Garlic shrimp
• Fried cuttlefish
• Octopus salad

Travey Tip: Order several and share—it’s the Travey Club way.

Cheese & Portuguese Desserts

Portugal has incredible cheeses, especially from regions like Azeitão and Serra da Estrela. Pair them with dessert classics like:

• Arroz doce (rice pudding)
• Queijadas
• Toucinho do céu (almond cake)

Travey Tip: Save room—Portuguese desserts are rich and worth it.

Coffee, the Portuguese Way

Coffee in Lisbon is quick, strong, and social. Order a bica (espresso) and enjoy it standing at the counter like locals do.

Travey Tip: Coffee breaks here are short—but frequent.

Why Lisbon Is a Food Lover’s Paradise

Lisbon’s food scene isn’t about trends—it’s about tradition, quality ingredients, and meals meant to be enjoyed slowly. Every dish tells a story of the sea, the land, and generations of home cooking.

At Travey Club, we curate travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing—and Lisbon’s food culture is one of the best ways to truly feel the city.

Come hungry. Leave inspired. Let Travey Club guide your Lisbon journey.

Travey Club specializes in creating custom travel plans tailored to individual interests, travel styles, and schedules. From curated itineraries to detailed logistics, our team helps travelers navigate destinations with confidence and ease. For a fully bespoke experience, contact us or become a Travey Club member and allow us to design a personalized journey based on your preferences. The itinerary below highlights key activities, while our custom planning ensures every detail is thoughtfully arranged to suit you.

Look at our three days Lisbon Itinerary : Travey Club