The 118 best restaurants in Lisbon

With over a decade of quality already in the books, 100 Maneiras is a rollercoaster ride through Portuguese flavours and irreverent innovation. That’s the Ljubomir Stanišić way, and the Sarajevo-born chef has been delighting Lisbon’s diners since arriving in Portugal in 1997. 100 Maneiras is quality over quantity in terms of space and options, and the opening of a second location has spread the love. The unique tasting menu demands attention. 

The laws of the smokestack apply to all dishes at Fumeiro de Santa Catarina, a neighbour to the Adamastor and perfect for dining after drinks with a view in the late afternoon. This means that from the starters to the desserts, all dishes have an element that passes through the smoker. On Wednesdays, ribs are baked in the oven, although we argue that every day should be for such magic.

There’s nowhere quite like Adega das Gravatas. The decor is eccentric, to say the least (be sure to clock the commemorative tie wall), but it doesn’t take long for the apparent chaos to reveal itself as a carefully curated embrace of a wonderful atmosphere. The food? That happens to be pretty darn good, although it is the desserts that really take centre stage. Adega das Gravatas is also one of the most Instagram-friendly restaurants in Lisbon, and we aren’t about to disagree.

Simplicity is the most important facet of Adraga. Why make this more complicated than it needs to be? After all, restaurants are all about good food and a good atmosphere, both of which Adraga has in spades. The fresh fish and shellfish are usually caught nearby and are grilled by experienced hands that grew up in these parts. It all makes for an authentic culinary experience free of bells and whistles. 

Anyone who has studied under the tutelage of sushi master Takashi Yoshitake is guaranteed to get our attention, and Aron Vargas is no different. This is sushi from the soul, although it should also be noted that this is also sushi from the nearby markets, mixing marvellously fresh ingredients with tender loving care and technique. One of the best sushi bars in Lisbon? You better believe it. 

The old adage is true here, and very good things are coming to those willing to wait before sitting down to eat. Floresta do Salitre is a tremendously popular place, a testament to the powerful combination of personality and delicious food, with homemade soups and grilled fish filling the menu. There is an informal charm to Floresta do Salitre that will have diners swooning in no time. 

Lisbon has no shortage of places to splash out and feel all fancy, but sometimes you just want somewhere that won’t obliterate the wallet, you know? If it can come without sacrificing quality, even better. Água pela Barba is the place you are after, serving the best of the ocean at budget-friendly prices. There are a couple of pork options if you aren’t interested in that which comes out of the sea. 

Another Lisbon spot that requires a little patience, Taberna de Rua das Flores is a celebration of traditional recipes by day and an explosion of excitement by night. Chef André Magalhães would have it no other way, with the team encouraged and expected to bring creativity to the plate daily. Get in line, and get ready to be amazed. 

Meat lovers, form an orderly queue and start licking those lips. Chef Luís Gaspar helms a steakhouse offering a unique experience, although who cares what the experience is when the cuts are this good. The steaks are tremendous, cooked in charcoal to maintain a high temperature and treated with all the care in the world. The 30-day-aged Chuletón might just be carnivore heaven. 

Kiko Martins has created something seriously special here. A Cevicheria is the result of years travelling the world on a gastronomy pilgrimage, where Martins picked up techniques, combinations and ideas and brought them back to Lisbon. We should all be very thankful, obviously. A Cevicheria focuses on Peruvian dishes and style, making for a marvellous lunch or a romantic dinner. Or both, go twice on the same day, we won’t judge. 

Mushroom heaven, that’s what this place is. Opening a restaurant that is so mushroom-obsessed might seem like something of a risk, but Santa Clara dos Cogumelos is no ordinary spot. This is a culinary revolution, changing how the world sees mushrooms, one satisfied customer at a time. If you’re not sure what to go for, pick the Santa Clara risotto. Magnificent.

You know the old saying about your eyes being bigger than your stomach? That feels plenty apt at Adega do Saraiva. Tradition is king when it comes to the decor, but this is the sort of place where everything you consider has you wondering whether you can fit multiple courses into your tummy. You might be able to, but be aware of the consequences. The roasted kid goat is incredible. 

First things first: the name is a reference to the restaurant being the illegitimate child of Portuguese cuisine. More importantly, we love it. Bastardo takes a contemporary approach to classic dishes and comes out shining, backing the whole thing up with colourful cocktail concoctions. Rules are meant to be broken, even in the gastronomic world, and Bastardo is yet to meet one that it didn’t want to smash. 

We won't argue with the good people of the Michelin Guide, certainly not on this occasion. Alma is a Michelin star cuisine extravaganza offering up delectable tasting menus celebrating a unique approach to Portuguese classics, with the occasional extravagant touch from further afield. Getting to eat this food in this location is a real privilege.

Get you a restaurant that does everything. Adega da Tia Matilde is a traditional tavern famous for being one of beloved Portuguese football icon Eusébio’s favourite places. The Black Panther is celebrated all over, but the food is the main reason to head here. Be sure to try the Coelho à caçador (stewed rabbit), and don't forget to bring your appetite with you. They don’t skimp on portions here, that's for sure. 

Seriously, this place is excellent. Arola has been a Lisbon favourite since its opening in 2008, and the quality of the tapas and Iberian snacks has survived all the changes over the years. Sergi Arola is a rockstar in these parts, an anti-establishment culinary envelope pusher, so expect the unexpected at Arola. 

Who wouldn’t want to eat gorgeous food with a lovely view of the Jardim Botânico? That is the experience we’re looking for in Lisbon, and Atalho Real is here to provide it. Fantastic cuts of meat accentuate the whole thing, although the quality of the entrees may prove just as exciting for hungry visitors. The cocktails are pretty darn good too. 

The jewel in the SushiCafe crown, Avenida SushiCafe is an adventure through the wonderful world of sushi creativity. Looking for sashimi served in a stone made from Himalayan salt? How about makizushi with crab inside and wagyu on the outside? Even typing that induced a little bit of drool. Be sure to book ahead for this one. 

A longtime favourite of locals and visitors alike, Azenhas do Mar is all ocean views and classic dishes, a combination that remains undefeated. As much as we try to avoid such sweeping statements, everything on the menu is great, so you might as well employ the ‘close your eyes and drop your finger’ approach when choosing. Or maybe keep your eyes fixed on the ocean while making your choice. It’s a win-win, basically.

This wasn’t José Avillez’s first foray into Lisbon restaurants, but its dedication to homely food helps it stand out from the man’s empire. As wonderful as high-end cuisine is, you can’t beat the food that inspires nostalgia, and you’ll find plenty of it at Cantinho do Avillez. Comfort food, Portuguese style.

Where to begin with this marvel? One space, four restaurants, coming together to form some sort of culinary superteam, heralded by the expertise of chef José Avillez. Diners can choose between the Taberna and its signature tapas, the Páteo with its devotion to all things seafood, the Mini Bar with its, erm, mini dishes and the Pizzeria, which offers up exactly what it says on the tin. You’ll likely need to reserve, but it is absolutely worth it. 

When the world’s great culinary minds come together to compile lists of the best restaurants in the world, Belcanto is invariably there or thereabouts. It isn’t difficult to see why, as José Avillez and his team pump out iconic dishes seemingly at will, all served up in a stunning central setting. Avillez was the first Portuguese chef to win multiple Michelin stars, so you can expect quality wherever his footprints are found. Belcanto is known to be his baby, so expect the best here. 

We’ve already waxed lyrical about Ljubomir Stanišić, but the Sarajevo-born chef deserves all the attention he gets. Bistro 100 Maneiras is the accompaniment spot to the flagship but don’t make the mistake of dismissing it. This is a delicious beast in its own right, a charming bistro that combines the best Portuguese and Eastern cuisines with modernity blossoming out of every pore. Ljubomir has a larger-than-life personality, but we’re here for the food.

Don’t be surprised to hear it referred to as “that place in Mouraria that is always full”, which gives you a good indication of how to approach experiencing the magical roasted cod of Zé de Mouraria. Also, the ribs with bean rice? Keep piling them up, please and thank you. Still, it all comes back to the roasted cod, and getting a table here is difficult enough to justify eating that marvel time and time again.

The team at Boa Bao invite diners to join them on an unforgettable journey through Asia, and we aren’t about to turn down such an experience. Boa Bao somehow manages to offer a wide range of flavours without losing any of the quality, and everything is accentuated by friendly service and delightfully romantic decor. Yes, please! 

Casual, contemporary, diverse and delicious. That just about sums up the experience of Boi-Cavalo, one of our favourite dining spots in all of Lisbon. The menu constantly changes as Hugo Brito continues his quest for culinary perfection. Hungry visitors are the lucky guinea pigs in this experiment, one that celebrates all that Lisbon is. Also, the name loosely translates as Ox-Horse, which is awesome.

One of the best Italian restaurants in Lisbon, Casanostra has seen plenty of competition come and go over the decades. Sure, it might not be as celebrated by politicians, journalists and the rest as it once was, but the team at Casanostra continue to serve up delightful Italian food nonetheless, focusing on flavour and experience above all else.

Portugal’s first-ever Japanese restaurant remains one of its best. The consistency at Bonsai is staggering, with more than thirty years of experience preparing magic in the kitchen. The special ramen is worth seeking out, such is the care and duty that goes into preparing it, although you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. For the full range of Japanese flavours in lovely Lisbon, look no further. 

Well, what did you expect from somewhere called Butchers? This steakhouse is carnivore heaven, a simple yet effective love letter to all things meat, free of pretence and full of flavour. Isn’t that what all meat-eaters want? Simply choose your cut and wait for the wonder to begin. The sweet potato fries make an excellent accompaniment. 

You’ve got to assume that diplomats make decent choices for dinner, so you can feel comfortable eating at Delidelux. You might just spy an international figure here but pay more attention to the alluring riverside esplanade than the discussions at surrounding tables. You don’t want to be accused of spying, after all.

We’re yet to meet an Argentinian restaurant that didn’t have us licking our lips in anticipation, and Cafe Buenos Aires is another to add to the list. Throw in one of the best terraces in the city, and you’ve got yourself something special, something delicious, something magnificent. The longer lunch hours are an absolute godsend.

This is a big claim, but the sirloin steak at Cafe de São Bento is one of the best we’ve ever had. Yes, ever. The meat is so tender it practically floats up from the plate and kisses you gently on the lips. We’re getting whistful just thinking about it, so maybe drop what you’re doing and head to the eponymous street and get ready for something awesome. Okay, there are other things on the menu, obviously, and the atmosphere is one of the most convivial in a famously friendly city. 

If you want to eat like a local in Lisbon, bust out the magnifying glass and see if you can find Cervejaria Boa Esperança. Okay, modern-day smartphones will do most of the work, but resist the urge to rely on the screen and instead ask around before finding heaven, albeit heaven in the form of comfort food and lunchtime bites. The cold salads are particularly excellent.

The British pub-style interior can be a little jarring, but give Cafe de Paço your attention, and you will be rewarded in spades. Well, rewarded in delicious food, but you get the point. The menu is full of unique dishes like prawn Balchão, while the desserts are some of the best in town. 

Now, this is a seriously classy establishment. Don’t turn up in your tatty hoodie, although you’ll still be treated like a hero at Cafe Príncipe Real even with that fashion faux-pas. The food here traverses the history of the Portuguese, with flavours from Brazil, Angola and India making classic Portuguese dishes sing even sweeter. This is a celebration of all things Lusophone, the Portuguese language world.

Magnificently informal and incredibly satisfying, Cantinho de Aziz is all about the marvellous food of Mozambique. It sits in the Mouraria neighbourhood and is undoubtedly one of the best informal bites in the city, with a down-to-earth atmosphere to go with its thrilling cuisine. 

Ingredients are vital, obviously, but more often than not, it is experience that brings them all together. A Travessa boasts more than 40 years of the stuff, meaning they know what they are doing when it comes to preparing and delivering delicious food in a gorgeous atmosphere. Several cuisines overlap here, making for a unique gastronomic experience. It isn’t every day that you get to eat in a former convent. 

Owner Tanka Sapkota might be better known in Lisbon because of his Italian restaurants, but the celebrated restauranteur’s best effort is the one closest to home. That home is Nepal, as the name suggests, and this is just about the best Nepalese place in Lisbon. The rustic atmosphere also garners it extra points. 

No frills but plenty of good food await at Coelho da Rocha. That is more than enough for us, especially when the menu is as meat-heavy as this place. Portuguese and Spanish dishes dominate, with the lines between the two often crossing with spectacular results.

Being a coastal city, Lisbon is blessed with more incredible seafood than anyone could hope to sample in multiple lifetimes. Still, we’re more than comfortable saying that the ocean-dwelling beasts served up at Liberdade are as good as anything else in the capital. High praise but entirely justified, accentuated by moreish desserts and an undeniable air of confidence.

What would you do if you happened to turn up on a beach in Guincho one day? Revolutionise a Michelin star kitchen, obviously. That is what Miguel Rocha Vieira did, learning the lessons of the chefs that came before him and creating something truly spectacular in his own style. The menu is shaped by whatever the sea has produced recently, ensuring the freshest fish. Be sure to listen to the sommelier, as he knows what he is talking about.

Everyone likes pizza, right? Okay, not everyone on the planet, but there is a comforting universality to pizza that makes it one of our favourite foods to write about. Casanova is one of the best pizza joints in the city, and anyone doubting it just needs to ponder the seemingly ubiquitous queue at this place. It is worth the wait, trust us. You might as well get a glass of Prosecco for the wait …

The anticipation kicks in once you plant your foot on the stairs leading to this first-floor restaurant in Praça da Figueira. You can smell the spices, sense the excitement, and hear the bustle waiting inside. Caxemira is one of the most popular Indian restaurants in Lisbon so expect a wait, but you’ll be rewarded with tremendous dishes once you get in. Expect spice.

Diners with a rudimentary understanding of Portuguese will know what to expect here. In fact, it shouldn’t take long for first-time visitors to Lisbon to get the bug too, such is the glimmering reputation of A Casa do Bacalhau, the House of Cod. You’ll struggle to find better-tasting cod on the planet, and the palatial location adds an element of grandeur to the experience. The pun might be somewhat tired, but nowhere deserves to be referred to as the Codfather more than here. 

Well, this certainly is a little different. Entering Cimas English Bar is like travelling to another world entirely, one inhabited by exiled royals, fearless writers and foreign politicians looking to make deals. These were all regular visitors here back in the day, and while its current iteration is a little nostalgia-heavy, we aren’t about to complain about that. The menu focuses more on French and Galician food, while the wine cellar might just be the best part of the whole thing. That and the intrigue, of course.

Don’t let the name fool you; you’re more likely to jump into tourists than journalists at this old restaurant, but leave your cynicism at the door, and you’ll be treated to some delicious food and a romantic atmosphere. There is something about dining in an old mansion that hits the spot, right?

First things first, fantastic moniker. Chutnify is a modern Indian restaurant in Príncipe Real that turned plenty of heads when it opened, eschewing as it did dining norms in favour of embracing historical techniques. Chutnify made its name in Berlin and has been a roaring success in Lisbon.

If you’re looking for something truly traditional, head to Farol da Torre. This famous restaurant is all about the north, and the north seems pretty darn delicious. Seasonal ingredients accentuate a variety of fish and meat, and the summer snails are stunning. Farol da Torre will have you booking a  trip to the northern province of Minho in no time, but be sure to finish your plate first.

The Confraria brand is well-established at this point, and combining that credibility with quality sushi at the LX Boutique hotel is a collaboration we can certainly get behind. Fusion sushi allied to excellent salads is always a good thing, and some of these combos are a delight. If you can double the food up with a stay in the hotel, you are one lucky bunny. 

There are four Cova Funda restaurants in Lisbon, so how about taking on the Cova Funda challenge and covering them all during your time in the city? Okay, that is a little excessive, such is the quality of restaurants around the place, but you should definitely make a beeline for the Cova Funda located in Alameda for quality grilled fish and some seriously good picanha. 

Beloved as a so-called temple of good traditional food, there is a refined quality to Dom Feijão that has diners queuing up in anticipation. Well, booking tables well ahead of time, but the point stands. The seafood is tremendous, especially when enjoyed on the summer terrace when the weather is good. This is Lisbon, remember, the weather is almost always good.

A decidedly family affair, there is something refreshingly local about Mar do Inferno that really excites. This is the sort of place referred to by many nicknames (all of which seem to revolve around the Lourdes family name), and the seafood selection will have hungry visitors feeling right at home. The seafood platter will fill you up for days.

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A fantastic healthy option in Campo de Ourique, Ela Canela is on the cutting edge of modern culinary trends. The lunch menu is delightfully brief, but one must remember that good things often do come in small packages. If you require something a little lighter, Ela Canela is at your service.

Without meaning to state the blindingly obvious, Joachim Koerper knows how to cook. The German chef has been preparing incredible food for over 50 years, picking up Michelin stars as he pleases, and Eleven is practically a pilgrimage for lovers of good food. Mediterranean flavours abound, and the window tables have a fantastic view of the city. The rack of lamb is almost as beautiful.

A longtime favourite with the good people of Lisbon, Estórias na Casa da Comida is a throwback to the Lisboa of yesteryear, but don’t make the mistake of assuming that means it is old-fashioned. Far from it, it just means that head chef João Pereira has an affinity for keeping old recipes alive in the most loving ways. We’re talking pickled partridge, crunchy piglet and a selection of wines that will have oenophiles in raptures. 

Does it make sense for a Nepalese restaurant to steal the name of the most famous mountain in your country? Yes. Does it make sense that it has a brother with the same name? Of course. And that there are three more with the same nomenclature in the city? Maybe not. Do not get confused: the two Alvalade ones belong to the same group and are great places to sample food from Nepal. Do not forget to warn about the intensity of the spice you want in the order.

Tucked away in the excellent Altis Belém hotel, Feitoria is all about bringing producers and customers closer together. You can rest assured that all the ingredients here are as locally sourced as possible and that freshness positively leaps off the plate. In some ways, a great chef is a conductor of a beautiful culinary orchestra, and João Rodrigues is one of the best. The prawns are particularly fantastic.

Pizzas in a wood oven, pasta that ferments 48 hours and a pizzaiolo that worked 15 years in Casanova. These are the keys to the success of this pizzeria restaurant. The man in the know is Vítor Cunha, and the pizzas are Roman, thin, and range from classic parmigiana, prosciutto and funghi to gourmet, such as the speck pizza or Joselito (yes, the Spanish ham). There is also pasta, burgers in the oven in pizza dough and, of course, burrata coming from Campania.

We’re all about showmanship here, so you bet we’re excited when a flaming fish enters the room. That is the sort of thing you can expect a Furnas do Guincho, a restaurant that embraces the spectacular every day. It works beautifully with the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean that dominates the view. The perfect lunch above the sea with a little bit (okay, a lot) of extravagance. 

One of the absolute must-visits in Lisbon, Gambrinus is a veritable institution in the Portuguese capital. Each day offers something different, from Monday partridges to Wednesday lobster pot, but you don’t need to check the schedule too much. Just get yourself a table and settle in for the ride. Eating at Gambrinus is one of the best things to do in Lisbon, full stop. 

Lisbon’s most beloved vegan restaurant? The Food Temple might just take that title. It has seen plenty of changes over the years, but the quality has never wavered, and the quality over quantity approach is to be admired. The staff know what they are talking about, so take their suggestions very seriously. 

Lisbon has no shortage of excellent Japanese restaurants, and Go Juu is up there with the best. Opened in 2015 by a team of former Aya disciples, Go Juu is dedicated to preserving traditional Japanese techniques, offering gorgeous food with faultless service. It is only open during lunch and dinner hours, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. 

A celebration of Cantonese cuisine, Estoril Mandarim has long been one of the most popular Chinese restaurants in Lisbon. The service is fantastic, the food is even better, and the menu has more than 100 specialities waiting to be devoured. Rumour has it that Estoril Mandarim is the best Cantonese restaurant in Portugal, but we’ll let you be the judge of that. 

Burgers and beer. Is there a better culinary combination on the planet? That is subjective, obviously, but throw a Black Angus burger and a hoppy ale in front of us, and we’re easy pickings. Add onion rings, and you might as well put the fork directly into us. Ground Burger is the place in Lisbon for this experience (minus the fork), with regional craft beers and mouthwatering burgers ready to be greedily devoured. 

Campo de Ourique’s favourite Japanese restaurant is charmingly rustic, as diners crowd around the single long table in anticipation of something special. Hikidashi isn’t playing it safe, and these guys take the literal description of the word ‘fusion’ very seriously. It all makes for a compelling experience and some quite astounding food.

Industrial chic, baby! Style and substance collide in delectable fashion at Prado, where a keen sense of fashion informs the interior while the decisions in the kitchen hinge on the opinions of local producers. That means no fixed menu, constant changes and cutting-edge cuisine that is as once-in-a-lifetime as Lisbon gets.

No word of a lie, Like a Prayer is playing as we type this. Maybe there is a higher power after all? Madonna made a beeline for this place when she first visited Lisbon, and we can’t blame her, such is the quality of the traditional food and game specialities that fill the menu. Order a little bit of everything for dessert and get ready for that sugar overdose. 

Named after one of the gorgeous Quirimbas Islands, Ibo serves excellent Mozambican food with some Portuguese dishes thrown in for good measure. The riverside area of Cais do Sodré has become a foodie hotspot in recent years, but Ibo remains one of the best options there, with a pretty terrace and some of the best-shredded crab curry going.

Headed by culinary masterminds Rui Martins and Luís Rodrigues, RIB Beef and Wine does exactly what it says on the tin, focusing on the magic of the cow and the wonder of the grape. The tomahawk ribeye will put hairs on your chest (not literally, don’t worry), although maybe go for something a little lighter. You need room for desserts, after all. 

Alessandro Lagano takes Italian food very seriously, and the proof is in the pudding. Of course, by ‘pudding’, we mean ‘fresh pasta made in-house and much more, with fantastic risottos and a selection of desserts that will drive your sweet tooth wild. Italian restaurants are ten a penny, but Il Matriciano stands out from the crowd. 

Portuguese and Japanese cuisine might not seem like predictable bedfellows, but leave that scepticism at the door. Sea Me brings the best of both worlds together in stunning fashion, bridging the gap between traditional Portuguese fishmonger and forward-thinking Japanese innovation. Sea Me is a homage to the old fish markets of Lisbon, which itself makes it more than worth a visit. 

Affordable daily menus and a plethora of takeaway options; what’s not to like? Opened in 2017 by Tanka Sapkota, Il Mercato quickly built itself a reputation for quality, best exemplified by the wildly popular green tagliatelle with shrimp. Il Mercato is the perfect place to refuel after a long walk in the Lisbon sunshine.

We aren’t picky, but there are certain qualities we demand in a marvellous restaurant. A homely atmosphere is important, as are seasonal ingredients and a dedication to the gourmet craft. Any and all organic flourishes are always welcome. In Bocca al Lupo ticks all these boxes and plenty more, serving up both Portuguese and Italian food with the confidence of a culinary champion. Some of the best pizza in Lisbon comes flying out of the kitchen right here. 

Don’t be intimidated by the dinosaur skeleton. That is a sentence we rarely get to write when talking about gastronomy, but JNcQUOI is no ordinary culinary experience. This is a fine dining extravaganza, one of the great places to be seen in Lisbon, a fabulous restaurant serving classics from Portugal, Italy, France and beyond. Feel free to ask about the dinosaur, by the way. 

As the name suggests, Kaffeehaus is a little slice of Vienna in the heart of Lisbon. A menu full of Austrian dishes awaits diners here, and long-time foodies will know what that means; hearty food designed to leave you more than satisfied but leaving space for that all-important post-meal coffee and cake. The breakfasts are great too, because of course they are.

Opened by Tomoaki Kanazawa at the end of 2015, this eponymous restaurant is all about quality over quantity. The number of tables is low, but the quality of the food is high, with creative menus that change continuously to keep things fresh. Tomoaki left in 2017 but handed the reins to Paulo Morais, who added his own innovative spin on it all. The results are glorious. 

The first thing you’ll notice is the decor, all bright colours that positively scream a good time. Things don’t let up with the pizza selection, undoubtedly one of the most comprehensive in the city, featuring the classics and some toppings you won’t have considered until you wander into the absolute sunshine that is La Finestra. 

There’s a lot to unpack when it comes to Lambrettazzurra. It started life as a pizzeria designed by a Brazilian couple famous for creating a bikini brand, only to reach new heights following an Italian trip of a lifetime. The result is some of the best pizza in Lisbon, with fat edges and delicious toppings, including some of the best vegetarian options in the capital. 

Alexandre Silva isn’t here to colour between the lines, that much is for sure. Loco is as Loco does, a restaurant with an olive tree suspended from the ceiling and all sorts of curious flavours waiting on the menu. The Michelin Star almost goes without saying. 

What else do we need to say? Yum Cha Garden was a beloved dim sum spot in Oeiras, but a change of identity in the middle of 2016 brought this place to new heights. Macau Dim Sum was born, and food lovers across the city were the winners. Come for the dim sum, stay for the duck, and marvel at the illustrated menus. Two thumbs up. 

It isn’t the easiest place to get reservations, but persistent diners will be rewarded in the end. Marie Azeitona is all about turning the classics on its head, taking traditional dishes and reinventing them with modern techniques. Marie Azeitona is a little outside the city centre, but that only means a more relaxing dining experience free of central traffic and noise. Best of luck with the reservation, but remember to be persistent.

Find number 7 on Calçada da Mouraria and don’t be put off by the lack of signage. You’re in the right place, especially if you are after delectable Chinese food in a simple setting. Simply go to the counter, point at the food you want and get ready to enter culinary heaven. This is DIY food at its finest. 

There are three Monte Mar options in and around Lisbon, but the Estrada do Guincho one still wins out for us. That’ll be because of the sumptuous location, or maybe the waves of nostalgia that wash over us whenever we sit down and take it all in. The lengthy menu might overwhelm some people but embrace it, take the suggestions and let the food do the rest. Seafood, obviously. 

From clandestine origins, good things grow. That isn’t an actual saying, but we’re sticking with it, such is the story of Zhiaming Lu and his immaculate Shandong and Sichuan cooking. Expect a wide range of spices, culinary education and a thrilling trip into nostalgic Chinese cuisine.

With a name like that, one has certain expectations. The Decadente is a place for eating a lot and spending a little while surrounded by beautiful people on a most idyllic patio terrace. We could say that eating here is a decadent experience, but that would be too simple. It is fantastic, that’s for sure. 

Japanese fusion cuisine is the name of the game at Nómada, a restaurant born out of the dreams of former employees of the much-missed Sushic in Almada. There is plenty of variety here with seriously fun combinations, although you can’t go wrong with the tataki tuna or sashimi. The perfect experience for fusion fanatics. 

It might sound unbelievable, but not everyone is already convinced of the majesty of Chinese food. Consider Nova Ásia the perfect introduction for the uncertain. The tables are set with cutlery instead of chopsticks, and the shopping centre location means Portuguese dominates the conversation, but good food is good food is good food.  

Shellfish and cold beer, what’s not to like? Nune’s Real Marisqueira knows what it is and doesn’t waste time trying to reinvent the wheel, and it is all the better for it. Here you can expect great food in the busiest part of town, a refreshing guarantee of quality in the heart of tourist town. 

Be sure to book a table at O Galito, unless you’re a fan of long waits. Good things come to those who wait, that has long been the truth, but there’s a limit on such things. There are plenty of good reasons why O Galito is so popular, all of which are on the menu. Our recommendations? The shark soup, the baked partridge, and all of the desserts. Yes, all of them.

Smack bang wallop in the heart of Campo de Ourique, O Magano is one gorgeous love letter to Alentejo food, meaning seasonal flavours that will have you planning trips to Évora and the regional parks. O Magano is particularly popular with families at weekends, the perfect fill-up before that much-deserved sesta. 

All things Argentinian are embraced at Volver de Carne y Alma, one of Lisbon’s great meat meccas. The empanadas are spectacular, while the dry-aged meats are a celebration of that increasingly popular approach. The restaurant has one of the city’s best auras, the perfect environment to chomp down on a life-affirmingly good steak.

Head to the outskirts for one of Lisbon’s great traditional spots, an easy-on-the-budget restaurant that changes its menu daily but never fails to deliver. Orelhas is that sort of place, a homely restaurant free of stress and full of good food. 

For such a cutting-edge city, Lisbon doesn’t really have a plethora of excellent vegetarian options. Why bother with quantity when you’ve got the quality of Os Tibetanos? It makes sense. There are a great variety of meat-free flavours here, all full of taste and vibrancy, with some of the friendliest staff around.

Italian food made with Italian hands and a most passionate Italian heart. It shouldn’t be any other way, but Chiara Ferro is no ordinary Italian chef. You won’t find pizza here, but what you will get is a mass of delicious offerings that are as authentic as Italian food in Lisbon can get. 

An absolute legend of Lisbon’s gastronomic scene. Pap’Açôrda is an old hand on lists like this, and this icon is an absolute must for first-time visitors to the city. Heck, it is a must for Lisbon veterans too. Just get here and get eating. It is also located in our magnificent Time Out Market, which is always a good sign.

They don’t just employ anyone at The Old House. The rigorous employment process is all about maintaining high standards, so you can be assured that whatever comes out of the kitchen here will be very, very good. Chinese flavours are the name of this game, with plenty of spice that will lead the taste buds on a rollercoaster of excitement. There is plenty of space here, but don’t be surprised to see The Old House full, time and time again.

What do you get when you combine the culinary might of chef Susana Felicidade and restauranteur Tânia Martins? Magic, that’s what. Well, you get Pharmácia, a traditional restaurant that embraces creativity and innovation along the way. It is also in the National Association of Pharmacies building, hence the name. The views are divine.

Pinóquio used to be shunned by locals somewhat as the Lisbon faithful tried to avoid mixing too much with tourists,  but thankfully, attitudes have changed. Good food brings people together, right? Pinóquio is one of those restaurants that just gets everything right, from the sun-showered terrace to the grilled sirloin steak with garlic sauce and the seafood bread pudding. A Lisbon institution since 1982, here’s to many more years of eating at Pinóquio.

There’s no bad time to go to Ramiro, but the best time is probably around five in the afternoon. Why five, you scream? Well, the big lunches are over, dinner is yet to begin, and you’ll get to see this famous spot in a new light. Anthony Bourdain famously ate here, going for that traditional dessert; a prego. Lisbon, ladies and gentlemen. The beer here is excellent.

There’s no denying that good food tastes even better in a friendly environment, and you’ll struggle to find anywhere friendlier in the heart of Lisbon than Rubro. This is the perfect place for seriously social eating, swapping dishes and stories as the wine flows and flows.

Lisbon is strangely lacking in high-end Thai restaurants, although the good people at Sala Thai aren’t worried about that. They simply go about their business cooking fantastic Thai dishes beyond the classics, throwing open the curtains to a world of gastronomy that will have diners booking trips to the east in no time. 

Most of the hype around this place surrounds Mick Jagger’s visit to the basement back in 2014, but Salsa e Coentros would be worthy of adoration even without the visit of a septuagenarian rock star. The best of Alentejo and Transmontana cuisine is served here, a veritable temple of good food.

We were a little late to this traditional spot in Campo de Ourique, but you can bust out the old adage about good things and waiting here if you like. Better late than never, that’s another one, and the age-old dishes on offer here will have you coming back time and time again. 

If you ever fancied jumping in a time machine back to the Lisbon of the ‘60s, Sancho is the restaurant for you. That means large leather armchairs, attentive waiters in full uniform, good meat coming out of the oven and a satisfied smile on your face when you leave. We love 21st-century Lisbon, but this little slice of nostalgia has a special place in our hearts (and stomach).

A big favourite with people looking to dip their toes into the delicious waters of Portuguese cuisine, Solar dos Presuntos serves up traditional food at excellent prices. Gorgeous seafood and meat dishes dominate the menu, and the atmosphere is as family-friendly as it gets. Portugal is a social place, and it doesn’t get much better than Solar dos Presuntos.

Lisbon might not seem the most obvious place in the world for a Russian cafe, but we’re all sorts of happy that Stanislav Avenida exists. Where else would we get our salted herring?! More than 4,500 kilometres separate Lisbon and Moscow, but Stanislav Avenida does a fine line in bridging that divide. 

A big favourite with diners in the know, Taberna da Esperança has long been filling bellies and putting smiles on faces with its fabulous mix of Alentejan recipes and innovative techniques. Be sure to book ahead, bring cash and get ready to be seriously impressed. 

Considering this is a collection of the best restaurants in Lisbon, we should probably focus on the food, but how can we start anywhere other than all those gins? Taberna Moderna’s gin bar has more than 70 waiting to be sampled (not in one visit, obviously), the perfect way to finish off a lunch that is all about sharing plates and conversation. 

Named after a small village north of Tel Aviv, Tantura is a Middle Eastern marvel bringing luscious flavours to Bairro Alto. The influences come from far and wide, but the focus of the dishes is undeniable, and Lisbon’s relative dearth of great Middle Eastern options makes Tantura a unique dining experience. 

Tapisco is all about togetherness. Life is a social event, and the Spanish tapas and Portuguese pesticos available here take the diner on a journey through the region, with charming chef extraordinaire Henrique Sá Pessoa at the wheel. Get ready to make friends for life over marvellous morsels of magic. 

Give thanks to Vitor Sobral. The much-lauded chef was one of the first to open a top-end restaurant that was more affordable than most, bringing fine dining to the relaxed world of the city’s soul. This informal eatery has a special place in the heart of locals, and its dedication to new ideas makes it a guaranteed hotspot for newcomers to Lisbon. Food and relaxation are an incredible duo. 

Authentic Japanese cuisine in Lisbon, what a magnificent combination you are. Tasca Kome is the baby of Yuko Yamamoto, a creative cook willing to go beyond the ordinary in search of the extraordinary. Yamamoto takes chances, there is no denying that, all served up in an easy-to-miss spot that screams romance.

Some of the best octopus we’ve ever tasted, let’s just say that. Tasquinha do Lagarto has a reputation for being popular with Sporting fans (be sure to book a table if you want to eat here on match day), but leave your assumptions about football fans at the door and focus instead on the excellent northern dishes.

It always pays to eat where the locals go, and Tentações de Goa is that place. Book yourself a table and get ready for the wonders pulled out of thin air (well, the sea, in truth) by Maria dos Anjos, one of Lisbon’s best chefs. Authentic Goan recipes abound here, with the crab curry being the sort that will have you lost for words when imploring your buddies to visit. Yes, that good.

Tomoaki Kanazawa did more than most to raise the standard of sushi in Lisbon, and his legacy is alive and well in his eponymous restaurant. Tomo follows the traditional line, keeping old favourites at the head of the game, gaining a new generation of fans all the while. Check out the lunch menus for affordable options.

Último Porto isn’t the easiest place in Lisbon to locate, but you’ll be more than glad you did once you are tucking into the cuttlefish, swordfish and the rest. You’ll find it by the harbour, serving a range of thrilled customers who are in on the secret. 

The in-house restaurant at Lisbon’s Four Seasons Ritz hotel is every bit as stylish as you’d presume a restaurant in such a location to be. The terrace has an incredible location overlooking Eduardo VII Park, and the menu focuses primarily on local ingredients pushed and pulled into new directions by French chef Pascal Meynard. 

Casual dining is the way to go, and it doesn’t come much more casual than Zero Zero. Pizza and pasta dominate the menu, and everything is excellent, packed with quality Italian ingredients and backed up by a cocktail menu that will have concoction collectors swooning. Everything we could ever want in an informal Italian eatery and then some.