Following the theme of last-minute Labor Day escapes, Lisbon is always a good idea. It has culture, it has architecture, and most importantly – it has food. We daresay, one the best up-and-coming culinary scenes. This is your dining list for now, and all year round. Here are the best restaurants in Lisbon.
The Restaurant: Mar do Inferno
The Vibe
Mar do Inferno brings all the sophistication of a fine dining establishment, along with the friendliness of a family-owned restaurant. For 48 years, it’s been run by Maria de Lourdes Tirano and her children. It’s no surprise the restaurant is known for its excellent service and makes guests feel like family.
Cuisine
If you want to try some of the freshest seafood in Lisbon, Mar do Inferno is your spot. The restaurant serves a wide variety of fish and seafood, which of course, depends on the fisherman’s bounty of the day. You can expect to find everything from tiger prawns to grouper. If you’re not into fish, there are a few meat options, as well as vegetarian meals on the menu.
The Restaurant: Palácio Chiado
The Vibe
Palácio Chiado has an elegant and charming atmosphere in a classic palace with modern decor. It’s the kind of spot you want to go for date night. If you’re traveling with entourage, the new Salla Bar on the ground floor is the perfect place for more lively groups to gather.
Cuisine
Palácio Chiado is the place to try authentic Portuguese food. However, Chef Manuel Bóia also serves cuisine from different corners of the world. Some menu items include tuna tataki, turbot filet, and wild mushroom risotto.
The Restaurant: SEEN Restaurant & Bar by Olivier
The Vibe
SEEN has a modern, glamorous atmosphere to it. It’s the perfect place to bring a group of friends and share a meal. If you’re looking for something chic and stylish, SEEN has got you covered.
Cuisine
SEEN is unique and original when it comes to food. The menu consists of contemporary cuisine with Japanese and Mediterranean influences. Some of the menu items include the Wagyu burger, spaghetti caprese, and steak tartare.
The Restaurant: JNcQUOI Avenida
Vibe
JNcQUOI Avienda is located inside Lisbon’s iconic Tivoli building. The high ceilings and neutral colors create a classy ambience, while the unique decorations keep things exciting.
Cuisine
JNcQUOI serves traditional Portuguese meals, and also several international ones. The menu includes sea bass ceviche, beef rib steak, and two different types of caviar. There is also an extensive drinks list that will especially delight any wine-loving guests.
The Restaurant: Alma
The Vibe
As an haute cuisine restaurant, Alma has a sophisticated but modern atmosphere. The restaurant makes you feel like you are taking part in something innovative and spectacular.
Cuisine
Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa serves classic Portuguese cuisine with Asian influences. Three different menus are available. The “Coast to Coast” menu includes fresh seafood from Lisbon’s coastline, the “Soul” tasting menu brings a contemporary twist to many traditional dishes, and the á la carte menu allows you to have total control over your own meal. When a restaurant has earned two Michelin stars, you know it’s going to be above average.
The Restaurant: Belcanto
The Vibe
Belcanto’s atmosphere is class and romance, which makes it the place to enjoy a dinner for two. The restaurant is also known for its extra-attentive and welcoming service.
Cuisine
It’s not surprising that Belcanto has been awarded two Michelin stars and appeared on “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list. Chef José Avillez creates unique and original dishes, while still paying homage to traditional Portuguese cuisine. During your visit, you will have the chance to choose between the tasting menu or the á la carte menu. In addition to its inventive food, Belcanto is famous for its wine cellar, which holds a vast collection of Portuguese wines.
The Restaurant: 100 Maneiras
The Vibe
You visit 100 Maneiras not only for top food and friendly service, but also for the unique experience that comes with it. Each item on the menu is inspired by a specific event in Chef Ljubomir Stanisic’s life, so each dish comes with a story. With every menu item, the chef takes you on a journey through his experiences, creating a serious culinary and foodie meal.
Cuisine
100 Maneiras is, in itself, a reason to visit Lisbon. Michelin-starred Chef Ljubomir Stanisic serves some of the most unique dishes in the city. Chef Stanisic incorporates his Bosnian roots and his love of Portuguese flavors into each meal. There are several tasting menus to choose from, each one highlighting the chef’s creativity.
FAQs
Q: Is it difficult to get a reservation to 100 Maneiras?
A: Yes. Because 100 Maneiras is so popular, it can be one of the most difficult to get a reservation if you wait too long. We suggest booking your reservation well in advance of your trip.
Q: Can I get drinks at JNcQUOI Avenida even if I am not getting dinner?
A: Yes, you can get drinks at JNcQUOI Avenida without dinner.
Q: What types of wine can I get at Belcanto?
A: There are over 350 types of wine available at Belcanto, about 80% of which are Portuguese. There are champagnes, sparkling wines, and late harvests.
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