Starred Restaurants in Lisbon, Portugal
If there is one country that understands good food, it is Portugal. Pure, fresh, no-nonsense, full of flavour and often for a price that you can only dream of in other countries. The freshest fish for a few euros, a juicy bitoque or a pan of pica pau – simple, authentic dishes that we all love. But if you think you have tasted the best of Portuguese cuisine, think againIt is not surprising that in the capital of the taste paradise you will find many Michelin restaurants, which show a completely different level of gastronomy.
This is where Portuguese food culture is taken to new heights. That BBQ fish on the beach? We never say no to that. But these star restaurants, oh my! Yes, it costs more than that plate in a tasca, but trust us – this is next level to enjoy.
At 100 Maneiras, celebrity chef Ljubomir Stanisic is at the helm. Housed in a distinctive space of rough stone and soft velvet, every dish is a story. Symbolism is everywhere: even upon entering, you’re greeted by a giant root (from a tree, that is) “falling” from the ceiling – a nod to Ljubomir’s roots and his declaration of love for Lisbon. Guests can choose from three menus: “The Story” (17 courses), “The Tale” or the vegetarian “Echoes of 100”. Each menu is accompanied by perfectly matched drinks, including non-alcoholic options. 100 Maneiras is more than just food – it’s an experience that stays with you.
This Michelin-starred restaurant takes 'attention to detail' to a whole new level. You're in for a ride! The 16-course menu consists of dishes that are balanced to perfection. The oyster with coconut cream and chili granita (perhaps the most sophisticated and sexy bite in all of Lisbon) sets the tone, and the 15 dishes that follow are no less impressive. At Loco, the food is crazy good. Don't forget to make a reservation!
Hidden in the former wine cellar of Torel Palace lies 2Monkeys, a culinary wonderland that has managed to conquer a Michelin star in just one year. In this intimate underground paradise, chefs Vítor Matos and Guilherme Spalk create dishes that are truly super spectacular are. Oh, and they change the menu almost daily. A bit of ADHD in the kitchen, but with a really brilliant outcome. A top restaurant for an evening of incredibly good dining.
At Michelin-starred SEM, they do things differently: here they transform food waste into works of art on your plate, and for very nice prices too. Along the walls are jars of fermented tomatoes, peppers and artichokes. What do they do with them? Very making yummy things! Ever thought egg whites could be exciting? The egg white garum crunch proves it can – think tempura meets divine chips! Go for the wine pairing and prepare for a night you’ll be bragging about for months to come!
Your taste buds will certainly not be disappointed in Lisbon, but for a real taste experience, head to Belcanto (number 31 in the world rankings!), where pure magic takes place.
Chef José Avillez, Lisbon’s very own culinary rock star, conjures up dishes you could only dream of in this two-star restaurant (!). The stylish interior screams ‘chic’ without being stuffy, while the staff strikes the perfect balance between helpful and invisible. Dare to order the Evolution menu: think prawns in a flirty curry sauce, squid hidden in chicken skin, suckling pig cooked to perfection, almost bringing a tear to your eye. Pair with Portuguese wines and voilà – tears of joy!
Tucked away in the elegant Four Seasons Ritz Hotel, you'll find Cura. In a warm setting of gold, blue, and Madeira wood, chef Rodolfo Lavrador creates culinary masterpieces from his delightfully calm open kitchen. You can choose from three set menus, each a tasteful ode to Portugal. Call us cultural barbarians or food barbarians, but the bread (yes, sorry, the bread) should have its own Instagram account. And the wine pairing? A wonderful journey through Portugal's wine regions.
Fancy dining in Lisbon is possible at Eleven. Fancy it is – think starched dresses and waiters in suits, but it is mainly the view over the river, where the fresh fish on your plate was fished out earlier that day, that is a big hit. The name comes from the 11 friends who made the realization of this restaurant possible.
Not a star restaurant, but the best of the best in Lisbon? Do you think here
