Explore the unique flavors of Lisbon through 10 traditional dishes that will captivate your taste buds with their rich history and distinctive ingredients.

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is not only renowned for its stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and picturesque views but also for its rich culinary tradition.

The city’s food scene offers a diverse array of flavors that will surprise even the most seasoned food lovers. From savory dishes to sweet treats, Lisbon’s cuisine blends traditional recipes with local ingredients, creating a culinary experience like no other.

Here are 10 unique traditional dishes in Lisbon that will take your taste buds on a journey you won’t soon forget.

1. Bacalhau à Brás

Bacalhau, or salted cod, is often called the “Portuguese national dish,” and you can find it in many variations throughout Lisbon.

One of the most unique preparations is Bacalhau à Brás, where the salted cod is shredded and mixed with finely chopped onions, crispy potatoes, and scrambled eggs. This dish is seasoned with a touch of parsley and olives, offering a delicate balance of flavors.

Bacalhau à Brás is typically enjoyed as a comforting meal and reflects the Portuguese love for cod, which has been a staple in their diet for centuries. A true taste of Lisbon’s culinary heritage, this dish is as hearty as it is flavorful.

2. Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato

If you’re a fan of seafood, Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato is a must-try dish. This classic Portuguese recipe features succulent clams cooked in a simple yet flavorful broth of garlic, white wine, olive oil, and fresh coriander.

The combination of these ingredients creates a fragrant sauce that perfectly complements the sweet, briny taste of the clams. Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato is typically served as an appetizer, but its vibrant flavors make it a satisfying choice for any meal.

It is named after the 19th-century Portuguese poet Bulhão Pato, who is said to have popularized the dish.

3. Sardinhas Assadas

There’s no better way to experience Lisbon’s love for seafood than by indulging in Sardinhas Assadas – grilled sardines.

These small, oily fish are seasoned with sea salt and olive oil before being grilled over open flames, giving them a smoky and charred flavor.

Typically served with a side of roasted potatoes and salad, sardinhas assadas are a popular dish during Lisbon’s summer festivals, especially the Feast of St. Anthony.

The fish’s simplicity and rich flavor make it an authentic and beloved part of Lisbon’s culinary culture.

4. Caldo Verde

A dish with humble origins, Caldo Verde is a Portuguese green soup made with potatoes, collard greens, chorizo (or sometimes, other types of sausage), and olive oil. This comforting dish is traditionally enjoyed during cold weather, but it’s so beloved that it’s served year-round.

The combination of smooth potatoes and earthy greens, along with the spiciness of the sausage, creates a satisfying balance of flavors.

Caldo Verde is often eaten with a slice of cornbread, and its simplicity makes it a true reflection of Portugal’s traditional home-cooked meals.

5. Feijoada à Portuguesa

A heartwarming stew, Feijoada à Portuguesa is a must-try for those looking for a filling, flavorful dish. This traditional Portuguese bean stew features a medley of meats, such as pork, beef, and sausages, slow-cooked with black beans, vegetables, and spices.

The result is a rich, hearty stew that is often served with rice and accompanied by a side of orange slices to balance the dish’s depth.

Feijoada is a comforting dish typically eaten during celebrations and family gatherings, making it an ideal way to experience the communal spirit of Lisbon’s food culture.

6. Pastéis de Nata

No culinary tour of Lisbon would be complete without trying Pastéis de Nata, the world-famous Portuguese custard tarts. These small, golden pastries are made with a flaky puff pastry crust and filled with a creamy, sweet custard.

Pastéis de Nata are typically served warm, dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar. While these treats can be found throughout Portugal, Lisbon is home to some of the best versions, particularly from the iconic Pastéis de Belém bakery.

The combination of the crisp pastry and rich custard makes for a perfect indulgence with a cup of coffee.

7. Chanfana

For those seeking something unique and slightly off the beaten path, Chanfana is a traditional dish from the Beira region of Portugal that is also beloved in Lisbon.

This slow-cooked goat or lamb stew is made with red wine, garlic, onions, and various herbs and spices. The meat becomes tender and infused with the flavors of the rich sauce, which is often served with rice or bread to soak up the juices.

Chanfana is a dish with deep, rustic flavors, perfect for anyone looking to experience authentic Portuguese countryside cooking in the heart of Lisbon.

8. Açorda à Alentejana

Another comforting Portuguese dish is Açorda à Alentejana, a flavorful bread soup from the Alentejo region.

The dish is made by soaking pieces of stale bread in a garlic-infused broth, which is then enriched with olive oil, poached eggs, and fresh coriander. The resulting soup is hearty, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

Although it originates from the southern Alentejo region, Açorda à Alentejana has become a beloved dish throughout Lisbon, particularly during colder months. Its simplicity and the warmth it provides make it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

9. Bacalhau com Natas

For a creamy variation of the beloved salted cod, Bacalhau com Natas is a decadent dish worth trying. This dish combines tender pieces of bacalhau with layers of creamy béchamel sauce and potatoes, all baked to golden perfection.

The combination of the rich, creamy sauce with the salty cod and soft potatoes creates a deliciously indulgent dish that is often enjoyed as a main course for special occasions.

Bacalhau com Natas offers a comforting, rich take on the traditional salted cod, showcasing the versatility of this ingredient in Portuguese cuisine.

10. Tremoços

A popular snack in Lisbon, Tremoços are salted lupine beans often served in small bowls at bars and cafés. These beans are a common accompaniment to drinks, particularly beer, and are enjoyed for their slightly bitter taste and firm texture.

Tremoços are not only delicious but also offer a unique eating experience, as they require a bit of patience to peel off their skins before popping the beans into your mouth.

Tremoços may seem simple, but they are a quintessential part of Lisbon’s casual dining scene and provide an authentic local taste.

Lisbon’s food scene is a true reflection of the city’s history, culture, and love for good, honest ingredients. These 10 unique traditional dishes offer a glimpse into the flavors that have shaped the city over centuries.

Whether you’re savoring the smoky grilled sardines, the rich bacalhau dishes, or indulging in a sweet pastéis de nata, the culinary experience in Lisbon is one that will undoubtedly surprise and delight.

For food enthusiasts looking to explore the authentic flavors of Portugal, Lisbon is an essential destination where every meal tells a story.