CITY GUIDE LISBON

THE TYPICAL CUISINE OF LISBON

by Lisa Maria River

Lisbona. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

Traditional dishes are mainly based on fish, especially cod and sardines, as well as a variety of soups and a good selection of meats. Cod is the protagonist of many delicious dishes, so much so that it is said that there are 365 different recipes, one for each day of the year. Two of the most famous preparations to try are "bacalhau à Brás" and "bacalhau con natas" (cod with cream) but also Bacalhau de Cebolada (Cod with Onions), Bacalhau Assado (Grilled Cod) and Pasteis de Bacalhau (Cod and Potato Croquettes) which can also be found in bars.

In addition to cod, Lisbon's cuisine also offers a variety of delicious soups such as "caldo verde" (a cabbage and potato soup with sausage) and "sopa de peixe" (fish soup). As for meat, you will find a good selection of pork, beef, and poultry dishes. Some popular dishes include "cozido à portuguesa" (a dish of boiled meat with vegetables) and "alheira" (a chicken or pork sausage).

WHAT TO EAT IN LISBON

Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

Sardinhas Assadas

Grilled sardines are another specialty of Portuguese cuisine, especially popular during the summer holidays. The sardines are marinated with garlic, lemon, and salt, then grilled until the skin becomes crispy and the fish remains juicy. They are often served with bread, boiled potatoes and salad.

Bacalhau à Brás

Bacalhau, or dried cod, is one of the most important ingredients in Portuguese cuisine and is prepared in a variety of ways. One of the most traditional dishes is Bacalhau à Brás, a kind of crumbled cod omelette with eggs, potatoes and onions.

Pataniscas de bacalhau

They are delicious cod croquettes fried in batter, sometimes with the addition of potatoes. They are a traditional appetizer of Portuguese cuisine and especially popular in Lisbon.

Chouriço assado

Portuguese chouriço assado is a delicious and simple dish made with smoked pork sausage called chouriço. It is a popular and loved dish throughout Portugal, perfect as an appetizer or as a main course.

Warm Green

This traditional soup is one of the most loved in Portugal. It is made with finely chopped green cabbage, potatoes, onions, and olive oil, and is often served with slices of smoked chorizo. It's a warm and comforting soup that's perfect for cooler evenings.

The Caldeirada

Fish Caldeirada (fish soup) is a traditional dish of Portuguese cuisine, known for its richness of seafood flavors cooked with different types of fish and shellfish. It is usually cooked in a large, heavy pot, so that all the ingredients cook evenly and served hot with crusty bread.

Francesinha

If you like rich and hearty sandwiches, you can't miss the Francesinha. Originating in the city of Porto, but also common in Lisbon, this delicacy consists of layers of toast, sausage, ham, steak and melted cheese, all covered in a sauce made from tomato and beer. It is a very hearty and satisfying dish.

The bifanas

Bifanas are sandwiches filled with thin slices of marinated pork and stewed with garlic and spices. They are served hot and often seasoned with mustard or hot sauce. Bifanas are a popular street food in Lisbon and are ideal for a quick snack.

Pastéis de Nata

These delicious treats are a Portuguese specialty. These are small cakes made from crispy puff pastry, filled with a cream of eggs and sugar, baked until a golden surface is obtained. They are often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar and are served hot. The most famous pastry shop for enjoying pastéis de nata is the Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon.

Ginjinha

It is a liqueur made from ginja, a variety of sour cherries with a slightly sour sweet and fruity flavor. The drink is usually served in small glass glasses, accompanied by a cherry at the bottom of the glass. One of the most famous places to enjoy ginjinha is Ginjinha Sem Rival, a historic tavern located in the Rossio district.

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WHERE TO EAT IN LISBON

Lisbon is a city that offers several opportunities to eat well at affordable prices. There are many restaurants that offer a wide range of cuisines, both traditional Portuguese and international. In the Bairro Alto district of Lisbon, known for its lively nightlife and lively atmosphere, there are several restaurants offering a variety of proposals for all tastes with fresh fish specialties, tapas and much more.

Parque das Nações, the modern district built for Expo '98, offers a wide selection of restaurants overlooking the Tagus River. You can enjoy fresh fish dishes, sushi, international cuisine, while enjoying a panoramic view. There are also numerous typical restaurants in the historic districts of Baixa, Alfama and Chiado where you can try the dishes of the traditional Poroga cuisine. At the LX Factory , the charming converted industrial area, located in the Alcântara district of Lisbon, you will also find restaurants and cafes that offer a fusion dining experience with the offer of contemporary Portuguese cuisine. The "Pink Street" (Rua Nova do Carvalho) in Lisbon It is a street famous for its lively nightlife, bars and nightclubs but there are also some restaurants that are located along this street or in the immediate vicinity that offer traditional cuisine. At the Time Out Market in Lisbon you can discover authentic flavors in a lively and convivial environment while savoring a variety of fish dishes prepared with high quality ingredients but also the Pregos (Portuguese sandwiches with meat or fish), selection of gourmet burgers, authentic Asian or fusion dishes and meat, fish, vegetable or cheese croquettes, accompanied by tasty sauces. You can't miss a stop at the historic pastry shop of Pastéis de Belém, in the district of the same name to taste the authentic pastel de nata.

THE TIME OUT MARKET

Time Out Market di Lisbona. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

The Time Out Market in Lisbon offers an exceptional dining experience in the Mercado da Ribeira, a renovated historic market in the Cais do Sodré area. The Time Out Market concept was introduced in 2014 and transformed the market into a vibrant food hub.

Inside the Time Out Market, you'll find a wide selection of food stands and restaurants run by some of Lisbon's best chefs and restaurateurs. Each stand offers iconic dishes and culinary specialties ranging from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international influences. You can enjoy a wide variety of foods, including fresh fish, seafood, meat, tapas, cheeses, desserts, and much more. In addition to the wide selection of food, the Time Out Market also offers bars, lounges and entertainment areas. You can sit at a shared table or find a seat in the common areas to enjoy the food of your choice.

The Time Out Market is a great option if you want to experience a wide range of tastes and flavors of Portuguese cuisine in one place. It is a culinary experience that you should not miss during a visit to Lisbon.

THE LX FACTOR IN LISBON

LX Factory di Lisbona. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

LX Factory Lisbon is a fascinating cultural and creative complex located in the Alcântara district that is located in an old industrial plant that has been transformed into a vibrant and multifaceted space for artists, designers, restaurants, shops and much more. LX Factory has become an important reference point for art, culture and innovation in Lisbon. The complex offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including art galleries, design studios, event spaces, fashion and design shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. Here, you can explore the studios of local artists, admire contemporary art exhibitions, shop for unique designer products, and enjoy delicious food and drinks in the various restaurants and bars featured. LX Factory also hosts cultural and entertainment events, such as plays, concerts, exhibitions, and exhibitions. It is a great place to immerse yourself in Lisbon's art and cultural scene and discover emerging local talent.

In addition, the complex is located near the 25 de Abril Bridge and offers panoramic views of the Tagus River. You can enjoy a stroll along the river or relax in one of the many outdoor spaces. To get to LX Factory, you can take the tram or bus to the Alcântara-Mar stop.

Pastry PASTEIS DE BELEM

La pasticceria Pastéis de Belém di Lisbona. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

The Pastéis de Belém pastry shop is one of the most famous and traditional in Lisbon. It is located in the Belém district, close to important attractions such as the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower. The pastry shop is renowned for its pastel de nata, considered one of the best in the city and has a long and fascinating history.

The original recipe for pastel de nata was created in the nineteenth century by the monks of the Jerónimos Monastery, who sold it in the monastery's pastry shop. When the monastery was closed in 1834, the secret recipe was sold to a local company that opened the Pastéis de Belém pastry shop in 1837. Even today, the pastry shop uses the original secret recipe to prepare pastel de nata.

Pastel de nata. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

In addition to pastel de nata, Pastéis de Belém also offers other sweet and savoury specialities, such as pastel de bacalhau (cod croquettes) and different types of traditional Portuguese cakes and sweets. You can eat the sweets inside the pastry shop or take them away to enjoy elsewhere. A stop at the Pastéis de Belém pastry shop is an experience not to be missed if you want to taste the real and authentic pastel de nata and immerse yourself in the Portuguese confectionery tradition.

Lisbon's "Pink Street"

La Pink Street a Lisbona. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

The Pink Street in Lisbon, also known as Rua Nova do Carvalho, is an iconic street located in the Cais do Sodré district. Its history dates back to the 80s, when it was known as a street of nightlife and nightlife, frequented mainly by prostitutes and sailors. In recent years, Pink Street has undergone a transformation and today it has become a trendy and lively place with numerous bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

During the day, Pink Street offers a variety of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy good food and relax. During the evening, the street comes alive with a lively nightlife, attracting locals and tourists looking for fun. The buildings along the street are painted in cheerful colors, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. It's a perfect place to enjoy a drink, listen to live music, and socialize with friends.

Gity Guide Lisbon