The Portuguese Tasca
Lisbon is a vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, rich culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re visiting the lively streets of Baixa or exploring the historic Alfama district, the city’s culinary scene offers something for every taste and budget. But with so many options, it’s easy to get lost in tourist traps that serve overpriced and underwhelming food. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best cheap restaurants in Lisbon. These hidden gems, or “tascas,” serve authentic Portuguese dishes at wallet-friendly prices, so you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Here are our top recommendations for budget-friendly, authentic dining experiences in Lisbon:
The Best Cheap Restaurants In Lisbon
1. O Girasol
O Girasol is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients. Some of their specialties include bacalhau à brás (shredded cod with potatoes and eggs) and cozido à portuguesa (Portuguese stew).
Must-try dish: Bacalhau à brás – A comforting dish that captures the heart of Portuguese cuisine.
Address: Tv. do Forno 29, 1150-193 Lisboa
2. O Carvoeiro
Located in the historic Alfama district, O Carvoeiro is known for its delicious grilled meats and seafood. This no-frills restaurant offers generous portions at affordable prices, making it a great choice for a casual, satisfying meal. Don’t miss their grilled sardines—a Lisbon classic.
Must-try dish: Grilled sardines – Simple, fresh, and flavorful.
3. Mondego
Mondego is a great option for those seeking variety without compromising on quality. Whether you crave traditional Portuguese fare like frango piri-piri (spicy grilled chicken) or something lighter, this restaurant caters to all tastes and dietary needs. It’s also a popular spot for vegetarians.
Must-try dish: Frango piri-piri – Spicy, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Address: Tv. do Forno, 1150-268 Lisboa
Step back in time with a visit to A Provinciana, a charming restaurant known for its hearty home-style cooking and rustic decor. Their feijoada (bean stew with pork) and bife à Portuguesa (Portuguese-style steak) are filling, flavorful dishes that will leave you completely satisfied.
Must-try dish: Feijoada – A rich, hearty stew that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Address: Tv. do Forno 23, 1150-193 Lisboa
Zé da Mouraria offers traditional Portuguese cuisine in a lively and friendly atmosphere. The menu is full of classic dishes, including roasted lamb and grilled fish. If you’re looking for generous portions of authentic flavors, this is the place to be.
Must-try dish: Roasted lamb – Tender, juicy, and served with perfectly roasted potatoes.
Located near the picturesque Carmo Convent, Grelha do Carmo is a cozy restaurant that specializes in seafood and meat dishes. The seafood rice is a standout—packed with fresh seafood and full of flavor. Perfect for seafood lovers!
Must-try dish: Seafood rice – A flavorful, hearty dish packed with the freshest seafood.
Address: R. da Condessa 3A, 1200-120 Lisboa
7. Adega das Gravatas
Though it’s a little off the beaten path, Adega das Gravatas is worth the trip. This quirky spot is decorated with hundreds of neckties hanging from the ceiling and serves some of the best traditional Portuguese dishes in Lisbon. Try their alheira sausage for a true taste of Portuguese comfort food.
Must-try dish: Alheira sausage – A rich, flavorful sausage served with a fried egg.
8. Taberna da Rua das Flores
Location: Chiado
If you’re looking for a modern twist on traditional Portuguese dishes, this charming tavern is a must-visit. The menu changes seasonally, and it’s often praised for the quality of its ingredients and its creative dishes. It’s a great spot for those who want to try something different, without spending a lot.
Must-try dish: Portuguese-style octopus salad – A refreshing take on a classic.
Address: Rua das Flores 103, 1200-194 Lisboa
9. Café de São Bento
Location: Príncipe Real
For those craving a traditional Portuguese steak, Café de São Bento offers a simple yet superb experience. The bife à Café de São Bento (steak with a rich sauce) is a local favorite. While it’s a bit pricier than some on this list, it’s still an affordable option for an excellent steak in Lisbon.
Must-try dish: Bife à Café de São Bento – A tender, perfectly cooked steak.
Address: Rua de São Bento 13, 1200-819 Lisboa
10. A Casa do Bacalhau
Location: Xabregas
A Casa do Bacalhau is dedicated to one of Portugal’s most iconic ingredients: bacalhau (salted cod). While slightly higher in price, it’s still a great affordable spot if you’re specifically craving bacalhau dishes in a modern, relaxed setting.
Must-try dish: Bacalhau à Brás – A classic cod dish that will transport you to Portuguese home kitchens.
Enjoy Lisbon’s Best Affordable Dining!
Lisbon offers an abundance of dining options that allow you to experience the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine without the high price tags often associated with tourist traps. Whether you’re craving bacalhau, fresh seafood, or hearty stews, these affordable restaurants serve up generous portions of delicious food.
From the cozy ambiance of Zé da Mouraria to the modern twist at Taberna da Rua das Flores, there’s something for every taste and budget. We hope this updated list will help you enjoy the best of Lisbon’s culinary delights!
Each of these spots provides something unique, whether it’s a cozy atmosphere, excellent service, or just really great food. We’d love to hear about your experiences. What’s your favorite cheap restaurant in Lisbon? Let us know in the comments!
Leave a Reply