7 Best Restaurants in Lisbon, Portugal

The humble bifana (pork steak), braised in a sauce flavored with garlic, bay leaf, and wine (or beer) and then served in a rustic roll, is a lunch favorite. This bustling eatery on Praça da Figueira, Rossio's smaller twin, is one of the best places to try it—even if they don't bother to put it on the menu! They also offer a great choice of rustic dishes at prices low enough to draw locals, who eat at the counter if they're really scrimping. The terrace out front is a welcome sun trap on chilly winter days, but don't miss the informative historical wall panel inside, which includes reproductions of engravings depicting the Hospital Real de Todos os Santos, whose grounds encompassed what is now Praça da Figueira but which was destroyed by the 1755 earthquake.

Enthusiastic approval from the late Anthony Bourdain helped boost Ramiro's profile, and this traditional cervejaria (which literally translates to "beer house" but practically speaking means seafood hall) is now one of the most famous places in Lisbon to eat fresh seafood. The atmosphere is casual, frenetic, and buzzy. The restaurant's popularity means there's almost always a wait for tables, so it's go at off hours or if you book ahead—they've finally relented on their infamous no-reservations policy.

Vegans in the know head to this little place off Rua Garrett, which has a well-priced varied buffet of salads, hot entrées, sides, and sauces for both lunch and dinner. Desserts and drinks—which include some great fresh juices as well as craft beers—are extra.

These twin restaurants are among a dwindling band in Baixa serving excellent traditional food. House specialties include bacalhau à minhota (fried codfish with onions and potatoes) and fresh fish and meats. You could start your meal by splitting a plate of amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams in a cilantro sauce) or a garlicky alheira sausage. For dessert, there's bolo de bolacha cookie cake, baked farófias (egg whites), or pineapple with port. There are also changing daily specials. 

In the charmingly old-fashioned dining room at one of Lisbon's oldest restaurants, bottles are displayed like works of art, and courteous staffers serve up Portuguese classics paired with one of the wine list's 600 choices.

More of a local option than some cafés in the area, Aloma is known for its prize-winning pastéis de nata, whose fame has helped it build up a small chain and even go into the export business. This outlet also offers a range of other pastries, plus sandwiches and quiches.

Occupying a bright and breezy downstairs room at the LX Boutique Hotel (there's a branch in Cascais, too), this sophisticated spot is one of the best places in town to eat sushi. There are vegan and vegetarian options alongside the usual fish, seafood, and sashimi.