Visiting Portugal has been trending for a while due to its coastal charm, gorgeous nature, pristine beaches, temperate climate & burgeoning food + wine scene. Portugal offers exceptional value for travelers, especially when compared to other European hot spots. You can enjoy high-quality accommodations, dining, and activities at relatively affordable prices, making it an attractive option for travelers without compromising on experience. I was lucky enough to visit Portugal’s capital city Lisbon a couple of times in the past few months. The food and wine are such a fun dimensional part of this city to discover. Here I will share some of my faves with you in this Lisbon quick foodie & drink tour.
We will begin at one of Lisbon’s top vegetarian restaurants. Then we will dine on the banks of the Tagus River where the fresh seafood takes center stage and visit one of the city’s oldest districts – Alfoma. For snacks and drinks, a tapas bar that embodies the friendly spirit of the city. Then to one of my favorite cocktail lounges for perfectly shaken drinks and last, a wonderful spot to catch sundowners along the river. So my friends, here’s your Lisbon quick foodie & drink tour!
Foodie Tour
Senhor Uva
We have talked about these types of establishments before, they just have that je ne sais quoi. You can tell the experience and food will be one for the books before entering. Senhor Uva is just that. Rach and I have both dined here a few times, we were tipped off by our friend Gary (thanks G!). Both times I dined I was alone and seated at the same seat at the bar. I consider this a good omen. A wink like – hey we saved your spot for you 😉.
When you enter, you will notice the minimal environment, wine bottles that serve as decor (something I love) and the groovy curated tunes that set the tone for your dining experience. Think Lauren Hill, Bob Marley, Common & Latin Soul blended in between. The menu is concise and seasonal, something else I appreciate, all the dishes are vegetarian. Whether you are a meat eater, plant based or somewhere in between, you will want to eat at SU when you visit Lisbon. Their food is for foodies, period.
Their servers and sommeliers are really, really knowledgeable about the subject matter and will completely guide your dinner based on your preferences and taste. Isn’t that what we are looking for when we dine out, to be well taken care of? If that is your desire, Senhor Uva over delivers.
What I Ate
Last time I dined here for my appetizer I ordered the jackfruit ceviche. The jackfruit was perfectly cooked and marinated garnished with avocado mouse, clementines and peanuts. I’m a sucker for exploring ceviches and this was a delightful treat. Upon recommendation, I paired this dish with a chilled red ~ ahh perfection!
For the main course, I ordered the seared oyster mushrooms served on top of a tahini peanut coconut sauce alongside bok choy garnished with Vietnamese cilantro, spices and toasted coconut. I mean come on. Eating this while enjoying a full-bodied red was chef’s kiss.
Sitting there I ate slowly which is rare for me as I selfishly didn’t want the food to end. The entire dining event from the vibe, design, and food to the space and pace the waiters create leads to a righteous spiritual experience. I’m not kidding.
Pro tip ~ make sure to snag a reservation here as soon as you know you are visiting Lisbon as their seating fills up. Enjoy their sister wine bar & shop Pinot Bar de Vinhos around the corner for a cheers before or after your meal and to take home a few of your favorite bottles.
Ponto Final
If you have taken any advice from locals or friends who have visited Lisbon likely they suggested eating at the famed seaside joint Ponto Final! Dining here starts the moment you step on the 15 minute ferry boat ride across the Tagus River to Cacilhas. You will enjoy a 10-15 minute river walk to arrive at PF upon exiting.
Pro tip ~ try your best to snag a reservation. When you book Lisbon, book Ponto Final, if you can’t snag a reservation, don’t fret, just keep reading.
If you were able to snag a reservation you are in luck, if not don’t worry. Get there between 30 minutes to 1 hour before they open and enter the queue for walk-ins. Yes, the line can feel discouraging and long, but once they open their doors it does move pretty fast! If you are dining for dinner, try to plan your experience with sunset, because this is one of the best places in the area to say goodbye to the sun!
I was not able to snag a reservation, once their doors opened I waited about 30 minutes for my table. I was seated with a fantastic view of the ocean and happy people all around me. Their menu is fresh & highlights the local seafood, although all eaters can find something to enjoy here. I ordered a half bottle of white wine, an appetizer and an entré and was in heaven. I just loved watching the water, the waiters buzz about and the changing colors of the sky. If you are up for a small adventure to dine on the banks of the Tagus River, do not miss Ponto Final!
Chapitô à Mesa
I always look for a variety of culinary experiences when I travel, like exploring trendy establishments to experience the buzz firsthand, dining at iconic institutions to immerse myself in local traditions, and discovering hidden gems that offer insights into the essence of the neighborhood. Ready for a midday snack I wondered one of the oldest areas of Lisbon – Alfama on a drizzling afternoon.
I stumbled into Chapitô a Mesa after a quick Google search, wanting to find a seasoned establishment that had been feeding the local community for years. Perched atop a hill, Chapitô offers breathtaking city views, eclectic decor and a creative Portuguese menu. I tried a perfectly cooked vegetable plate and a local chilled red by the glass. Chapitô delivered ambiance and fantastic food in one of the oldest districts of the city.
Drink Tour
Tapas Bar 52
Well appointed on my favorite street in Lisbon, Rua Dom Pedro V, Tapas Bar 52 is the perfect joint for afternoon or evening tapas and drinks. Their menu is a delightful array of over 60 types of Spanish-inspired tapas ranging from classic favorites like patatas bravas and calamari to more innovative creations, all bursting with flavor. The bar exudes a warm and welcoming ambiance hosting beers on draft, wine, sangria and signature cocktails.
Rua Dom Pedro V is lined with colorful buildings adorned with traditional Portuguese tiles (azulejos) exuding a quaint, trendy and inviting atmosphere. The street is pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for strolls and exploration. As you wander along its cobblestone pavements, you’ll encounter a diverse array of shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries. To me, a perfect Lisbon afternoon is exploring this street and ending up at Tapas Bar 52 for refreshments!
Foxtrot Bar
Your Lisbon quick foodie & drink tour would not be complete without mentioning Foxtrot Bar. Rachel and I both have an affinity for this cocktail lounge. Set in the trendy and sophisticated scene of Príncipe Real, my favorite neighborhood in Lisbon. Ring their doorbell for a warm welcome, upon sitting down you will be adorned with bars snack. The snacks upon arrival always do it for me.
This dimly lit bar exudes a chic ambiance, the decor is that of a moody cocktail bar meets ski chalet. The interior is embellished with artistic touches, creating an inviting space for patrons to unwind and socialize. There is nothing not to love. Explore their perfectly shaken drinks + dinner & tapas late-night food options. Every time I head here I am treated like a regular and find myself planning my return. Foxtrot is a must visit watering hole for those looking to experience Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife in a stylish setting.
Miradouro
Ahh the sidewalk culture in Europe always leaves me dazzled and wanting more. Head to Miradouro for just that. This casual open-air bar in the Bairro Alto district located alongside the Tagus River is a cozy and popular spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views over Lisbon.
The menu features a variety of wines and cocktails along with Portuguese and international dishes. The perfect choice for a solo date or meeting friends for that pre-dinner chit chat and cheers. Head here and enjoy watching the city unwind.
Until Next Time, Lisbon
I’ve found the culinary and wine dimension of Portugal adds a dynamic layer to the country’s allure. Each spot in this Lisbon quick foodie & drink tour shares the city’s essence in some way. So, whether you’re a seasoned Portugal regular or planning your first visit to Lisbon, embark on these vetted destinations for definite satisfaction and fun. Savor the flavors and experiences what make Portugal’s capital city a must-visit destination for food and wine lovers. Until next time, Lisbon.
If you have visited Lisbon, let us know which spots you have enjoyed eating and drinking at! Please let us know if you have any questions.
Tchau for Now,
Bekah
PS ~ Don’t miss checking out our Valle de Guadalupe restaurant roundup here, another foodie and wine destination that is truly exploding!
