After much exploration and taking inspiration from fellow travelers, I’ve curated a list of must-visit spots in Lisbon that have captured my attention in unique ways. Some of these places have earned multiple stars in my book, signifying the sheer delight they brought me.
Brunch/Coffee
- Java
- Description: A charming café known for its cozy ambiance and excellent coffee selections.
- Recommendation: Try their signature brews and pastries for a delightful coffee experience.
- Cafe Janis
- Highlight: Mediterranean breakfast options
- Note: Known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious morning meals, particularly the Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
- Heim
- Description: A popular eatery offering a variety of flavorful dishes with a modern twist.
- Recommendation: Don’t miss their innovative culinary creations, perfect for a satisfying meal.
- Dede’s
- Description: A cozy café with a relaxed vibe, ideal for enjoying a leisurely brunch or coffee break.
- Note: Known for their specialty coffees and freshly baked treats, creating a delightful experience for visitors.
- Mercaria de Mila
- Description: A local market offering a range of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and culinary delights.
- Note: While primarily a market, it’s worth exploring for unique finds and authentic Portuguese ingredients.
- Seagull Method
- Description: A trendy café known for its artistic décor and vibrant atmosphere.
- Note: Offers a selection of beverages and light bites, making it a great spot for a casual hangout.
- Buna
- Highlight: Known for exceptional coffee
- Note: A personal favorite for its high-quality coffee beans and cozy setting, perfect for coffee enthusiasts.
- Neighbourhood
- Description: A stylish café and eatery known for its welcoming ambiance and delicious food options.
- Note: Offers a range of menu items suitable for different tastes, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
- Hello Kristof
- Description: A trendy café and bookstore offering a unique blend of coffee, culture, and literature.
- Recommendation: Explore their collection of books while sipping on a carefully crafted beverage for a memorable experience.
- Marquise
- Description: A hidden gem known for its delectable pastries and specialty drinks.
- Note: A must-visit for those with a sweet tooth, offering a delightful array of desserts and coffee creations.
- Dear Breakfast
- Description: A cozy breakfast spot known for its hearty morning meals and friendly service.
- Recommendation: Try their signature breakfast dishes for a fulfilling start to your day.
- Seventh
- Description: A modern café with a focus on quality coffee and simple yet flavorful food options.
- Note: Ideal for a quick coffee fix or a relaxed meal in a laid-back setting.
- Fauna & Flora
- Rating: Highly recommended (💕)
- Description: A charming café known for its Instagram-worthy décor and healthy menu choices.
- Recommendation: Indulge in their nutritious and visually appealing dishes while enjoying the cozy ambiance.
- Batz
- Description: A cozy coffee spot offering a variety of specialty brews and light bites.
- Note: Great for a casual coffee date or a solo coffee break, with options for both caffeine lovers and snack enthusiasts.
Dinner:
- Agua Pela Barba
- Rating: Highly recommended (🌟)
- Description: Known for its exquisite cuisine and charming ambiance.
- Note: A must-visit for a memorable dining experience in Lisbon.
- Acaso
- Description: A delightful restaurant offering a variety of culinary delights.
- Note: Perfect for exploring new flavors and enjoying a relaxed meal.
- A Obra
- Description: A cozy eatery known for its delicious dishes and friendly atmosphere.
- Note: Ideal for a casual dinner with friends or family.
- Santelmo
- Shelby’s Rating: Exceptional (********)
- Highlight: Best octopus in town
- Note: Renowned for its superb seafood dishes, particularly the octopus and tuna steak!!
- Senhor Uva
- Rating: Highly recommended (🌟)
- Highlight: Manuel Senhor offers natural wine across the street (*****)
- Note: A favorite spot for wine enthusiasts, offering a great selection of natural wines.
- Da Noi
- Rating: Highly recommended (🌟)
- Description: A charming restaurant known for its authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
- Note: Don’t miss their signature dishes for a taste of traditional Portuguese flavors.
- Vino Vero
- Description: A wine-focused eatery offering a curated selection of wines and delicious small plates.
- Note: Perfect for wine lovers looking to explore new wine varietals paired with tasty bites.
- Prado
- Rating: Highly recommended (🌟)
- Description: A top-rated restaurant known for its innovative dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
- Note: Offers a culinary experience that highlights the best of Portuguese cuisine.
- A Nossa Casa
- Description: A cozy family-owned restaurant known for its home-cooked meals and welcoming atmosphere.
- Note: Ideal for a comforting and satisfying dinner experience.
- A Cevicheria
- Description: A popular spot specializing in delicious ceviche and fresh seafood dishes.
- Note: Perfect for seafood lovers seeking flavorful and well-prepared dishes.
- Fumeiro de Santa Catarina
- Description: A traditional restaurant known for its hearty Portuguese dishes and cozy setting.
- Note: Offers a taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine in a relaxed dining environment.
- Ponto Final
- Description: A waterfront restaurant with stunning views and delicious seafood options.
- Note: Perfect for a romantic dinner overlooking the river while enjoying fresh seafood.
- Nomada
- Description: A contemporary restaurant offering creative dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Note: Ideal for those looking for innovative culinary experiences in Lisbon.
- Rosamar
- Description: A hidden gem known for its flavorful dishes and friendly service.
- Note: Offers a range of menu items to satisfy different tastes, making it a great choice for dinner.
- Faz frió
- Description: A cozy restaurant known for its comfort food and welcoming ambiance.
- Note: Perfect for a relaxed dinner with comforting dishes to warm up your evening.
Drinks / A night out
- STATIC
- Rating: Highly recommended (🌟)
- Description: A vibrant bar known for its lively atmosphere and signature cocktails.
- Note: A must-visit for an exciting night out in Lisbon.
- Toca da Raposa
- Description: A cozy bar offering a relaxed setting and a variety of drinks.
- Note: Perfect for unwinding with friends or enjoying a quiet drink.
- Collect
- Description: A trendy bar known for its creative drinks and stylish décor.
- Note: Ideal for those looking for a unique and memorable drinking experience.
- Palacio Chiado
- Description: A historic building converted into a chic bar with a sophisticated ambiance.
- Note: Offers a range of drinks in an elegant setting, perfect for a special evening.
- Java
- Description: A popular café with a rooftop bar offering great vibes and stunning views.
- Note: Don’t miss the rooftop experience for a memorable night out in Lisbon.
- The V Rooftop
- Description: A rooftop bar known for its panoramic views and refreshing drinks.
- Note: Perfect for enjoying sunset cocktails and soaking in the city skyline.
- Miradouros Kiosks (Santa Catarina, Santa Luzia, Ribeira das Naus)
- Description: Scenic spots with kiosks offering drinks and snacks, ideal for sunset views.
- Note: Enjoy a drink while taking in breathtaking views of Lisbon’s iconic landmarks.
- Java Rooftop
- Description: A vibrant rooftop bar with a lively atmosphere and fantastic views.
- Note: Known for its vibey ambiance and great drinks selection, making it a top choice for nightlife.
- Park Bar (after 11 PM)
- Description: A unique bar located atop a parking garage, offering a fun and lively atmosphere.
- Note: Perfect for late-night drinks and dancing, with a memorable rooftop setting.
- Pensão Amor (after 11 PM)
- Description: A funky club with a brothel-themed décor and energetic vibe.
- Note: Ideal for those looking for a unique and eclectic nightlife experience in Lisbon.
- Go A Lisboa
- Description: A chill rooftop bar where you can also co-work if the weather is nice.
- Note: Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and refreshing drinks while taking in the city views.
Beach Bars (Caparica):
- Irmao
- Rating: Highly recommended (🌟)
- Description: A versatile spot offering great food, drinks, and a lively vibe.
- Note: A top choice for a well-rounded dining and drinking experience in Lisbon.
- Princesa
- Rating: Highly recommended (🌟)
- Description: A must-visit restaurant known for its delicious food.
- Recommendation: Visit Princesa for a meal and then head to Posto 9 for drinks afterward (*******) for a perfect evening.
- Posto 9
- Description: A popular spot for drinks and socializing, offering a lively atmosphere.
- Note: Ideal for enjoying cocktails and meeting new people in a vibrant setting.
- Bohemian
- Description: A trendy bar with a bohemian vibe, known for its unique cocktails and relaxed ambiance.
- Note: Perfect for those seeking a laid-back yet stylish drinking experience in Lisbon.
Exploring Lisbon’s vibrant culinary and nightlife scene has been a delightful journey filled with unforgettable flavors, captivating views, and lively atmospheres. Whether you’re sipping cocktails atop a rooftop bar, indulging in delicious meals at cozy eateries, or dancing the night away in funky clubs, Lisbon offers a rich tapestry of experiences for foodies and fun-seekers alike. So grab your appetite and sense of adventure, and embark on your own gastronomic escapade through this charming city. Cheers to good food, great drinks, and endless memories in Lisbon.
Shelby Goes 