You'll find plenty of Portuguese delicacies around Lisbon. Follow the locals to the nearest food truck for a bifana, a sandwich of pork marinated in white wine and garlic sauce. Snack on salty sardines over a glass of wine, or devour a pasteis de nata, the famous egg tart that packs a creamy, cinnamon-infused custard in a crisp shell.
Lisbon, a city of rich culinary traditions and flavors, invites you on a delectable journey through its local cuisine. From fresh seafood to savory pastries and bold wines, here's your guide to savoring the authentic tastes of Lisbon:
Bacalhau à Brás: Begin your culinary adventure with Portugal's beloved dish, Bacalhau à Brás. This flavorful salted cod dish is cooked with scrambled eggs, onions, and finely chopped potatoes, creating a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.
Pasteis de Nata: A visit to Lisbon would be incomplete without indulging in Pasteis de Nata. These iconic Portuguese custard tarts are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and sprinkled with a touch of cinnamon. Savor them warm from a local bakery, such as the famous Pasteis de Belém.
Sardines: Taste the essence of the sea with grilled sardines, a Portuguese classic. These small, flavorful fish are seasoned with sea salt and grilled to perfection, often enjoyed during Lisbon's summer festivals.
Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: Sample Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato, a dish featuring tender clams cooked in a flavorful sauce of olive oil, garlic, cilantro, and a hint of white wine. It's a taste of the seaside on your plate.
Bifana: Sink your teeth into a Bifana, a Portuguese pork sandwich seasoned with garlic and spices, and served in a crusty roll. It's a popular and satisfying street food choice.
Ginjinha: Sip on Ginjinha, a traditional Portuguese cherry liqueur, often enjoyed as an aperitif or a post-meal digestif. You'll find small, charming Ginjinha bars dotted throughout the city.
Francesinha: Experience a flavorful explosion with Francesinha, a sandwich that hails from nearby Porto. It's a hearty combination of steak, ham, sausage, and melted cheese, all drenched in a spicy tomato and beer sauce.
Caldo Verde: Warm your soul with a bowl of Caldo Verde, a comforting green soup made from potatoes, kale, and a hint of chorizo. It's a Portuguese classic that's perfect for cooler days.
Charcuterie and Cheeses: Discover Portugal's artisanal charcuterie and cheeses at local markets and tascas. Taste regional varieties like presunto (cured ham) and Queijo da Serra (a soft sheep's milk cheese).
Petiscos: Embrace the Portuguese tradition of Petiscos, small plates meant for sharing. Explore the diverse world of petiscos, from octopus salad to grilled chorizo, in cozy taverns.
Wine: Lisbon's wine culture is a delight. Pair your meals with local wines, such as Vinho Verde, a refreshing green wine, or sample a range of Portuguese varietals at wine bars.
Lisbon's local cuisine is a culinary adventure waiting to be savored. Whether you're indulging in iconic pastries, exploring seafood markets, or sipping fine wines, the city's food scene offers an authentic taste of Portuguese culture and hospitality.