What Food To Try in Lisbon and Food Prices

Caldo Verde - Green Broth (traditional soup) - This is a comforting soup made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo. Locals often enjoy it as a starter during family gatherings or on chilly evenings.

Bifana - Pork Sandwich - This is a spicy marinated pork sandwich served in a crusty roll, often topped with mustard or piri-piri sauce. It's a popular street food eaten on the go, especially during a late-night outing after a few drinks.

Bacalhau à Brás - Cod with Potatoes and Eggs - Flaked salted cod mixed with sautéed onions, crispy potatoes, and scrambled eggs, garnished with black olives. It’s a common dish for lunch and often shared with friends on a sunny afternoon.

Feijoada - Bean Stew - A hearty stew made with black beans and a variety of pork cuts, typically served over rice. You’ll find locals feasting on this specialty during weekend family meals, often accompanied by a side of orange slices.

Caracóis - Snails - A street food delicacy, these are snails cooked in a savory broth of garlic and herbs, often enjoyed with a side of bread. While they might seem unusual to newcomers, locals can't get enough, often eating them during social gatherings or markets.

Arroz de Marisco - Seafood Rice - This is a rich rice dish simmered with a mix of fresh seafood like clams, shrimp, and mussels, cooked to creamy perfection. Often served at festive family dinners, it's best enjoyed on special occasions or during the summer.

Percebes - Barnacles - These unusual shellfish have a unique taste, often enjoyed steamed with a sprinkle of salt. Generally served as a treat during coastal picnics or seaside taverns, they symbolize the joy of summer seafood feasts.

Grão de Bico - Chickpea Stew - A filling stew made with chickpeas, vegetables, and spices cooked slowly to enhance the flavors. It’s a popular vegetarian choice often served during weekdays, especially in family meals showcasing traditional Lisbon dishes.

Galão - Galão (creamy coffee) - A delicious combination of espresso and foamed milk, served in a tall glass. You’ll usually find locals sipping this delightful drink during leisurely breakfast hours or in the afternoon at a café.

Sumol - Sumol (fruit soda) - A refreshing, fruit-flavored soda, often enjoyed in tropical varieties like passion fruit or orange. It's a popular choice during hot summer days, often served in beachside cafés – just don’t confuse it with the more familiar brands!

Ginjinha - Ginjinha (cherry liqueur) - A sweet and fruity liqueur made by infusing ginja (sour cherries) in alcohol, served in a small glass, often with a piece of the fruit itself. Typically shared among friends after a meal, locals tend to enjoy this at one of the many standing bars throughout the city.

Pastel de Nata - Pastel de Nata (custard tart) - A flaky pastry filled with a rich, creamy custard that's perfectly baked to a golden hue. Best enjoyed warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon, locals often indulge in this treat during Portuguese coffee breaks.

Gelado - Gelado (ice cream) - Creamy gelato available in an array of flavors, including local favorites like "tabela" (a combination of nuts and dried fruits) and "travesseiro" (inspired by the traditional pastry). Commonly devoured on sunny afternoons, the indulgence hits just right as a cold relief from the heat.

By the way, you can never go wrong with a pastel de nata from a friendly neighborhood bakery – they know how to make it right!