Best Restaurants in Lisbon Right Now: 5 Spots Food-Lovers Are Buzzing About
From seafood temples to tiny taverns, these Lisbon restaurants are trending hard in 2026.
This guide zooms in on 5 Lisbon restaurants that locals and in-the-know travelers are talking about most. Expect classic seafood, bold modern Portuguese cooking, and relaxed tavern vibes in the city’s liveliest neighborhoods.
Best Restaurants in Lisbon Right Now: 5 Spots Food-Lovers Are Buzzing About
Lisbon’s food scene is in constant motion, mixing old-school tascas with creative kitchens and seafood palaces. This guide highlights five restaurants that are not just good, but currently trending: they are racking up reviews, drawing queues, and anchoring some of the city’s most energetic streets.
Each pick below includes why it is hot right now, what to order, and how to time your visit.
Restaurant - Cervejaria Ramiro - Lisbon’s legendary seafood still setting the pace
Restaurant - Cervejaria Ramiro is the city’s classic marisqueira that refuses to slow down. With a huge volume of reviews and a strong growth score, it stays on every trend list because new visitors keep discovering it and locals keep returning.
Why it is trending now
- Constant review momentum and word-of-mouth from food travelers
- Featured in countless food videos and social posts, so first-timers flock here
- Late-night energy that fits perfectly with Lisbon’s after-hours scene
What to expect
Ramiro is loud, bright, and focused almost entirely on seafood. Service is fast and no-frills. You come here to crack shells, dip bread into garlicky sauces, and sip cold beer.
What to order
- Garlic shrimp and clams in white wine
- Tiger prawns or scarlet shrimp if you want a splurge moment
- Crab or spider crab, served ready to scoop
- The famous steak sandwich (prego) at the end of the meal
Pro tips
- Come early or very late to avoid the longest waits.
- Add your name and be prepared to queue; the line is part of the ritual.
- Perfect pairing with a night out in nearby Intendente or Avenida Almirante Reis.
Can the Can Lisboa - Creative canned fish with a cool riverside vibe
Can the Can Lisboa has turned Portugal’s traditional canned fish into a modern dining experience, which makes it stand out in a city full of classic seafood restaurants. Its review growth and consistent 4.4 rating show that travelers love the concept as much as locals.
Why it is trending now
- Smart, design-forward take on an everyday Portuguese staple
- Prime location near the river and Praça do Comércio, drawing curious visitors
- Strong social media appeal thanks to colorful plates and stylish interior
What to expect
The space feels modern but relaxed, with a focus on sustainability and Portuguese products. It is a great spot for a light lunch, early dinner, or a snack between sightseeing stops by the Tagus.
What to order
- Tasting boards built around high quality canned fish
- Sardines on toast or creative cod dishes
- Seasonal petiscos (small plates) that pair well with wine
Pro tips
- Ideal for travelers who want something genuinely Portuguese but not heavy.
- Book if you want a prime terrace or indoor table during peak hours.
- Combine with a sunset walk along the riverfront.
O Velho Eurico - Modern tavern energy in the heart of old Lisbon
O Velho Eurico is a compact, lively spot that has become a cult favorite for modern Portuguese comfort food. Its high review count and strong growth score reflect a steady buzz among locals, hospitality workers, and in-the-know visitors.
Why it is trending now
- Word-of-mouth favorite for generous plates and fair prices
- Old Lisbon setting near Sé Cathedral, but with a young, energetic crowd
- Often highlighted by chefs and food writers as a must-try tavern
What to expect
Expect a tight space, fast turnover, and a casual, slightly chaotic charm. The menu leans into hearty dishes with bold flavors, often updated takes on traditional recipes.
What to order
- Daily specials on the chalkboard; ask staff what is best that day
- Pork and offal dishes if you want to go full-traditional
- Simple desserts and a glass of house wine or cold beer
Pro tips
- Arrive early or be ready to wait; the dining room is small.
- This is a great place to share plates with friends.
- Bring an open mind if you want to explore more rustic, local flavors.
A Cozinha - Sr. Lisboa - Playful Portuguese plates in a laid-back setting
A Cozinha - Sr. Lisboa has a slightly higher rating than most spots on this list, backed by a healthy growth score. It is popular with younger Lisbon diners and visitors who want something modern but not formal.
Why it is trending now
- Fresh, bistro-style take on Portuguese flavors
- Strong local following that keeps reviews climbing steadily
- Welcoming vibe that suits dates, small groups, and solo diners
What to expect
The space feels cozy and contemporary, with a menu that leans on seasonal ingredients and sharing plates. It is more relaxed than fine dining but more polished than a basic tasca.
What to order
- Seasonal fish and seafood dishes with creative garnishes
- Petiscos designed for sharing, plus vegetarian-friendly options
- A dessert or two; the sweets often surprise people
Pro tips
- Reservations help on weekends, as the room fills quickly.
- Ask staff for pairing suggestions from the wine list.
- Good choice if you want a full dinner after exploring central Lisbon.
Floresta das Escadinhas - Classic grill with serious local love
Floresta das Escadinhas combines a high rating with strong review growth, a clear sign that it is hitting the sweet spot between local authenticity and visitor appeal. It feels like a neighborhood favorite that the internet has just started to catch up with.
Why it is trending now
- Old-school charm that contrasts with more polished downtown spots
- Known for quality grilled fish and meat at fair prices
- Tucked on a staircase street, which adds to its hidden-gem feel
What to expect
This is a simple, honest Portuguese restaurant where the grill is the star. Expect straightforward plates, friendly staff, and a mix of locals and travelers who did their homework.
What to order
- Grilled sardines in season, or dourada and robalo (sea bream and sea bass)
- Grilled meats with rice, salad, and potatoes
- A carafe of house wine to keep things relaxed and affordable
Pro tips
- Come hungry and ready for a classic, no-fuss meal.
- The stairs outside can get busy; factor in extra time to find the entrance.
- Great lunch stop if you are exploring Baixa and Rossio.
How to use this list
All five restaurants are popular, so timing and reservations matter. Use MapsBuddy to check live busy times, navigate side streets, and spot nearby up-and-coming places that are just starting to trend.
Lisbon’s restaurant scene changes fast. Save these spots, then keep exploring on MapsBuddy to find the next wave of under-the-radar favorites before they go mainstream.
Places featured in this guide
1. Restaurant - Cervejaria Ramiro
Av. Alm. Reis 1 H, 1150-007 Lisboa, Portugal
2. Can the Can Lisboa
Praça do Comércio 82 83, 1100-148 Lisboa, Portugal
3. O Velho Eurico
Largo de São Cristóvão 3, 1100-179 Lisboa, Portugal
4. A Cozinha - Sr. Lisboa
R. São José 134, 1150-325 Lisboa, Portugal
5. Floresta das Escadinhas
R. de Santa Justa 3, 1100-483 Lisboa, Portugal