These are the top Lisbon tips from Chef (Daan) Van der Lecq
Lisbon remains one of my favorite cities to visit. Every time I'm there, I try as much as possible to go along with the rhythm of someone who lives there. Read: good food, diving into the sea, and above all, enjoying myself to the fullest. With an uncle who lives there, I have yet another reason to return to this delightful city every year. But let's be honest: the tips below also make me want to go back again and again.
Catering industry:
At the very top of my list of favorites is Frangasqueira Nacional. Not a fancy restaurant, but a small place with six seats where a Portuguese mama cooks in the open kitchen. It feels homey and familiar – like sitting down for a meal like in the old days: eating whatever is on the menu. For about 35 euros, two people can eat and drink more than enough here, and you really get value for money.
At Gunpowder, they serve Indian cuisine in a surprising and refined way. Don't expect a classic here. streetfood, but dishes with a modern, elegant twist. Everything we tasted was incredibly delicious, but especially the soft shell crab And the naan, which was almost a kind of croissant, really stuck with me.
If you go to Lisbon, a few pastéis are of course a must. I have eaten quite a few by now, but at Pastelaria Real Príncipe, as far as I am concerned, you will find the best. by far The tastiest. You can eat delicious croquettes and savory pastries there, for example with minced beef or bacalhau.
Here you eat one of the best chickens in Lisbon. Again, the motto here is: no frills, just authentic and incredibly good. Despite the touristy location, it is still packed with Portuguese people, exactly the mix that makes these kinds of places so charming. With a few friendly older men serving, it feels like you are dining at a local's home. And the chicken? It is finger-licking good.
I actually find this spot just a little too hip, which led me to believe beforehand that it might be a bit touristy. But just like with authentic establishments in Amsterdam that attract a lot of attention, it turned out here too that the crowds don't detract from the quality. The food was truly amazing. Can't decide from the menu? Then I can definitely recommend the veal cheek sandwich and the sardines.
Último Porto is situated right amidst containers and cargo ships, in a raw, industrial setting that gives the place so much character. The fish served here comes straight from the sea, goes onto the open barbecue, and then lands right on your plate. Meat is also available for those who wish, but chances are you'll get a telling-off from your neighbors if you choose that option.
Close to Lisbon, you can also find a number of nice beach bars. Kailua Fonte da Telha is about a 40-minute taxi ride from the city, which is fortunately quite affordable. The atmosphere is lovely, the food is tasty, but honestly, you come here mainly for the vibe and the view of the beach.
Actually, I would rather not include this tip, because I don't have a sweet tooth at all myself. But if you really want to try a *real* pastéis, this is the place to be. The Pastéis de Nata is known worldwide as the quintessential Portuguese cream tart, but originally that title belongs to the Pastéis de Belém, which is made only in one specific historic district of Lisbon. My tip: skip the line of tourists and get an espresso with a pastéis at the coffee bar. That way, you can enjoy it without having to wait for hours.
I got the tip about Galeto from a local. At first, it mainly reminded me of a American dinner of sports cafeBut appearances can be deceiving. You can enjoy a nice meal at the bar here, everything is well organized, and the staff is quick and attentive. Especially in the mornings, you find yourself surrounded by elderly Portuguese people coming to get their coffee and pastéis, which actually makes it feel incredibly local. The menu features a wide variety of things, from good coffee to fine cuts of meat and burgers.
As I mentioned, I have an uncle who lives in Lisbon. He and his fiancée are vegan, which sometimes makes traditional Portuguese food just a little bit trickier. That is why we went out to eat together at O Gambuzino, a trendiest A place with surprisingly good food that is completely full even on Monday evenings. Absolutely do not expect a hippie vibe here, and that is exactly what makes it so nice. Tip on the menu: the tempeh.
Culture:
In this museum, the legacy of the Portuguese singer Amália Rodrigues is guarded, celebrated, and kept alive. But the real highlight is attending a garden concert. In her beautiful backyard, you can enjoy live music in a unique location, with her former house as a backdrop.
In this old palace, you can enjoy an outdoor cinema, complete with fun movies, folding chairs, and popcorn.
During my vacation, I mainly try to enjoy myself, but I also like to work out occasionally. My uncle goes here a few times a week, so I enjoy joining him when I'm in Lisbon. Especially because it's such a nice gym: you train outdoors, have a good vibe, and can even spot some familiar faces while you're at it.
A night out:
As you approach this little square, it almost reminds you of a flock of parakeets in Vondelpark. But instead of birds, it is an anthill of young, sociable people here grabbing their drinks at one of the surrounding stalls and then gathering on the square for a drink.
Of course, it should be possible to have a party every now and then. Be sure to keep an eye on Yard's schedule if you're in the mood for a dance. Tucked away in a quarry-like landscape in Quinta do Anjo, about a half-hour drive from Lisbon, you'll occasionally find a festival at a unique location here. We were there during Keinemusik, and it was really great.
More tips
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A long weekend away to Aljezur and Arrifana
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Helder Farm Studios in Southern Portugal
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The best of Ericeira, Portugal
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Where do we work out in Lisbon? Our favorite gyms listed
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Aethos Club in Lisbon is the co-working space where you need to be.
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