By Nadia Desiderio, Sommelier, Belcanto
Lisbon is a city best discovered one table, and one glass, at a time. Its dining scene moves effortlessly between Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy, lively neighbourhood taverns and contemporary restaurants that reinterpret Portugal’s extraordinary culinary heritage. Add an exciting generation of independent wine bars and some of Europe’s most inventive cocktail destinations, and the Portuguese capital offers plenty to explore long after the sun sets over the Tagus.
Sommelier Nadia Desiderio, General Manager and Sommelier at Belcanto (#41, World’s 50 Best) shares her guide to the city, balancing internationally celebrated restaurants with the more intimate addresses favoured by Lisbon’s own food, wine and hospitality community. From refined tasting menus and seafood-driven local cooking to artisanal Portuguese wines and late-night cocktails, these are the places that reveal Lisbon at its most delicious.
Finest Dining
Feitoria (One Michelin Star)
Located beside the Tagus River, Feitoria celebrates Portuguese terroir through refined, contemporary cuisine. The tasting menu highlights exceptional seafood, local produce and elegant techniques, complemented by one of Lisbon’s most thoughtful wine pairing programmes.
Belcanto (Two Michelin Stars)
Belcanto is an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience Portuguese gastronomy at its highest level. The Michelin 2-Star is lead by Chef José Avillez combines creativity, precision and tradition in a tasting menu that showcases the very best of Portugal’s ingredients and culinary heritage. Signature seafood dishes, seasonal fish and beautifully executed desserts make it a memorable experience. Belcanto is Portgual’s only restaurant on the World’s Best 50 Restaurants list.
Local Eats
Canalha
One of Lisbon’s liveliest restaurants, Canalha captures the city’s modern dining spirit with simple, ingredient-driven cooking. Expect excellent grilled meats, fresh seafood and seasonal sharing plates in a relaxed atmosphere that locals love.
Velho Eurico
A modern Lisbon classic, Velho Eurico has revived the traditional Portuguese tavern with outstanding ingredients and generous hospitality. The croquettes, pork dishes and rice specialities are favourites, and it’s the perfect place to experience authentic local flavours.
Izakaya Lisboa
Hidden away in Príncipe Real, Izakaya offers an intimate chef’s counter where Japanese techniques meet exceptional Portuguese seafood. The nigiri, sashimi and seasonal omakase-style dishes make it one of Lisbon’s most exciting and unexpected dining experiences.
Patéo do Avillez
For those wanting to explore Portuguese cuisine in a vibrant setting, Patéo do Avillez offers a variety of traditional dishes with Chef José Avillez’s contemporary touch. The seafood rice, pica-pau and selection of petiscos are ideal for sharing.
Prado
Prado has become one of Lisbon’s benchmark restaurants for seasonal, farm-to-table cooking. Working closely with local producers, the menu changes regularly to showcase the best Portuguese vegetables, fish and meats, while the wine list is one of the city’s strongest for both classic and low-intervention producers.
Wine Bars
Black Sheep
An essential stop for wine lovers, Black Sheep specialises in small-production wines with a particular focus on Portugal’s new generation of winemakers. The knowledgeable team and excellent by-the-glass selection make every visit worthwhile.
Vino Vero
Originally from Venice, Vino Vero has quickly established itself as one of Lisbon’s best wine bars. Its carefully curated selection of artisanal wines, paired with excellent cheeses and charcuterie, creates the perfect setting for discovering something new.
Insaciável Bar
A relaxed and contemporary wine bar offering a constantly evolving list of exciting Portuguese and international wines. It’s a fantastic place to discover emerging producers and enjoy knowledgeable, friendly service.
Pinot Bar
Small, intimate and beautifully curated, Pinot Bar is known for its excellent selection of Portuguese and international wines served in a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a glass or explore something more unusual.
Cocktail Bars
Red Frog
One of Portugal’s most acclaimed cocktail bars, Red Frog is a sophisticated speakeasy where classic techniques meet modern creativity. Every cocktail is executed with exceptional attention to detail.
Quattro Teste
A favourite among Lisbon’s hospitality professionals, Quattro Teste offers inventive cocktails built around seasonal ingredients and impeccable hospitality. It’s a fun and memorable stop after dinner.
Rossio Gastro Bar
Located on the rooftop of the Altis Avenida Hotel, Rossio Gastro Bar combines panoramic views over Lisbon with beautifully crafted cocktails and an excellent wine list. It’s the perfect place to end an evening in the city.
