Discovering Portuguese Food: Iconic Dishes and Best Restaurants
Portuguese cuisine celebrates bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and deep-rooted culinary traditions. From the seaside towns along the Atlantic coast to the lush, rolling hills of the interior, Portugal offers diverse dishes that reflect its rich history and geography. Whether you're a seafood lover, a fan of hearty stews, or someone with a sweet tooth, there’s something in Portuguese cuisine for everyone.
Iconic Portuguese Dishes
1. Bacalhau à Brás
Portugal’s love affair with bacalhau (salted cod) is legendary, with more than 365 recipes to try. Bacalhau à Brás is one of the most beloved versions—a mix of shredded cod, eggs, onions, and thinly fried potatoes, garnished with black olives and parsley. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Portuguese home cooking.
- Where to Try It:
- Bota Alta (Lisbon) – This traditional tasca in the Bairro Alto district is a local favorite for classic Portuguese dishes, including Bacalhau à Brás.
- Solar dos Presuntos (Lisbon) – Known for its excellent seafood, this family-run restaurant also serves one of the finest Bacalhau à Brás in the city.
2. Francesinha
A decadent sandwich from Porto, the Francesinha is a meat lover’s dream. Packed with layers of ham, sausage, and steak, it’s topped with melted cheese and drenched in a rich tomato and beer sauce. It's often served with a side of fries and an egg on top. This dish is a hearty indulgence, perfect for those craving comfort food.
- Where to Try It:
- Café Santiago (Porto)—Considered by many to serve the best francesinha in town, Café Santiago is a must-visit for anyone wanting to try this iconic Porto dish.
- Cervejaria Brasão (Porto)—Another excellent option in Porto, Brasão offers a slightly more refined version of the Francesinha in a lively setting.
3. Caldo Verde
Caldo Verde is often considered a national dish. It is a humble yet delicious soup made from kale, potatoes, and chouriço (smoked sausage). Originating from the northern region of Minho, this simple, comforting soup is a staple at Portuguese tables, particularly during celebrations.
- Where to Try It:
- Casa Aleixo (Porto) – Known for its northern Portuguese specialties, this cozy restaurant serves a comforting bowl of Caldo Verde that's true to its roots.
- Adega das Gravatas (Lisbon) – This traditional eatery in Lisbon offers an excellent rendition of this hearty soup.
4. Sardinhas Assadas
Grilled sardines, or Sardinhas Assadas, are a beloved summer dish in Portugal, especially during the popular Santos Festivities in June. The sardines are perfectly grilled over an open flame and served with roasted peppers, potatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Where to Try It:
- Zé da Mouraria (Lisbon) – A no-frills, local favorite where the sardines are grilled and served in Portuguese fashion.
- Ramiro (Lisbon) – Though famous for its seafood, Ramiro also serves up excellent grilled sardines.
5. Arroz de Marisco
Portugal’s coastal location makes it a seafood paradise, and Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice) is one of the best ways to experience its bounty. This rich, flavorful dish combines rice with fresh seafood—usually prawns, clams, and crab—cooked in a tomato and herb-infused broth.
- Where to Try It:
- Marisqueira de Matosinhos (Porto) - Located near the coast, this seafood restaurant is a local institution known for its flavorful Arroz de Marisco.
- A Tasquinha (Nazaré) – A cozy spot in the coastal town of Nazaré, known for its exceptional seafood rice.
6. Cozido à Portuguesa
Cozido à Portuguesa is a hearty boiled meat and vegetable stew, often made with beef, pork, sausages, and seasonal vegetables. It’s a rustic dish deeply rooted in Portuguese family traditions, typically enjoyed on cold days.
- Where to Try It:
- Laurentina O Rei do Bacalhau (Lisbon) – Though famous for its bacalhau dishes, this restaurant also serves a fantastic version of Cozido à Portuguesa.
- O Nobre (Lisbon) – Chef Justa Nobre offers a slightly refined version of this traditional stew, blending old recipes with modern techniques.
7. Pastéis de Nata
No exploration of Portuguese cuisine is complete without mentioning the iconic Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts). These sweet treats, with their flaky pastry and creamy custard filling, are one of Portugal’s most famous exports.
- Where to Try It:
- Pastéis de Belém (Lisbon) is the birthplace of the Pastéis de Nata, and this historic bakery has been serving its secret recipe since 1837.
- Manteigaria (Lisbon) is another top spot for a fresh, warm Pastel de Nata, known for its rich custard and crispy layers.
Best Restaurants in Portugal to Experience Traditional Food
1. Belcanto (Lisbon)
With two Michelin stars, Belcanto by José Avillez is an exquisite fusion of traditional Portuguese flavors and modern gastronomy. While it offers a contemporary take on Portuguese cuisine, dishes like Bacalhau and Cozido are reimagined with precision and creativity.
2. António (Albufeira, Algarve)
For an authentic taste of the Algarve’s seafood, António is a gem. Located near the coast, it specializes in fresh fish and shellfish and serves traditional dishes like Cataplana de Marisco (seafood stew) and grilled sardines.
3. Tasca da Esquina (Lisbon)
This modern yet cozy restaurant offers a contemporary twist on traditional Portuguese dishes. It is the perfect spot to try reinterpreted classics like Arroz de Pato (duck rice) and Polvo à Lagareiro (octopus with olive oil).
4. O Paparico (Porto)
A Michelin-starred restaurant in Porto, O Paparico offers an upscale dining experience focused on authentic Portuguese flavors. Dishes like arroz de marisco and Cozido à Portuguesa are refined and elegant.
5. Casa de Chá da Boa Nova (Leça da Palmeira, Porto)
Set in a stunning seaside location, this Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Rui Paula serves creative interpretations of Portuguese seafood. Its tasting menus offer a culinary journey through Portugal's coastal flavors.
