The best seafood restaurants in Lisbon occupy sun-drenched streets, the scent of grilled sardines wafting through the air, mingling with the salty breeze from the Atlantic. Your stomach rumbles, you decide with an immediate certainty that you need to eat. But where to start? Fear not, fellow travellers and food enthusiasts! I’m about to enlighten you on Lisbon’s best seafood restaurants in this mouth-watering guide.
From hidden gems tucked away in winding alleys to Michelin-starred marvels, Lisbon’s seafood offerings are as diverse as they are delicious. Whether you’re craving the simplicity of freshly grilled fish or the complexity of modern Portuguese cuisine, this city has you covered. And the best part? There’s something for every budget, from wallet-friendly local haunts to splurge-worthy gastronomic experiences.
We’re about to embark on a culinary journey through 12 of Lisbon’s most tantalising seafood restaurants. I’ll explore the spots that locals swear by and tourists rave about.
Lisbon is home to a variety of seafood, discover where to find the juiciest tiger prawns, the most flavourful seafood rice, razor clams or perhaps even those intriguing gooseneck barnacles? Make sure you don’t forget the wine list and let me be your tour guide to explore this list of the best seafood restaurants in Lisbon!
Have a look at my full guide to Lisbon or if you haven’t selected your hotel yet, check out my guide to the best hotels for all budgets
Table of Contents
1. Cervejaria Ramiro
Cervejaria Ramiro is nothing short of a Lisbon institution. This popular seafood restaurant is a bustling spot on Avenida Almirante Reis has been dishing out some of the city’s freshest seafood since 1956. Locals and tourists alike flock here for the succulent tiger prawns, juicy centolla crab, and buttery clams. The atmosphere is casual and noisy, perfect for those wanting an authentic Portuguese seafood experience without any fuss. Expect to shell out around £35-45 per person, depending on how hungry you are.
2. Marisqueira Uma
Hidden in the Baixa district, Marisqueira Uma is a small, unassuming spot that’s famous for its arroz de marisco (seafood rice). This family-run restaurant epitomises no-nonsense dining, focusing on robust, authentic flavours and the freshest ingredients. It feels like stumbling upon a local secret – a hidden gem that both foodies and casual diners appreciate. Meals here won’t break the bank, usually costing around £18-27 per person.
3. A Cevicheria
For a modern twist on seafood, head to A Cevicheria. Chef Kiko Martins brings Peruvian flavours to Lisbon, with a Portuguese flair. The menu revolves around ceviche, offering creative dishes that play with textures and flavours. The giant octopus sculpture hanging from the ceiling makes it a hit on Instagram. It’s the place to go for a contemporary dining experience that blends international inspiration with local seafood.
4. Solar dos Presuntos
Near Avenida da Liberdade, Solar dos Presuntos has been a mainstay in Lisbon’s culinary scene since 1974. This Michelin-recommended, family-run restaurant serves top-notch Portuguese cuisine with a strong emphasis on seafood. Don’t miss the shrimp açorda and the fresh fish of the day. The warm, traditional decor and attentive service make it popular with locals and visitors alike.
5. Belcanto
Belcanto, helmed by José Avillez, is the crown jewel of Lisbon’s fine dining scene with its two Michelin stars. Located in Chiado, it offers an innovative take on Portuguese cuisine, particularly seafood. Voted in the worlds 50 best restaurants, expect artistic creations like scarlet shrimp with pine nuts or codfish with smoked avocado. It’s a splurge at around £130-175 per person, but the experience is unforgettable.
6. Sea Me – Peixaria Moderna
Sea Me in Chiado cleverly combines a traditional fish market with a modern restaurant. From sushi and sashimi to classic Portuguese grilled fish and seafood risotto, there’s something for every seafood lover. The lively, modern atmosphere makes it great for those wanting a mix of traditional and contemporary. Prices vary, but budget around £35-55 per person for a full meal.
7. Alma
Another two Michelin-starred gem, Alma by Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, offers modern interpretations of Portuguese cuisine. The focus is on fresh, local seafood, with dishes like carabineiro (scarlet prawn) and sea bass presented with artistic flair. Set in a stylish, minimalist space, Alma provides a refined dining experience. Tasting menus start at about £105.
8. Taberna da Rua das Flores
This cosy taberna in Chiado is a hit with its ever-changing menu based on the day’s catch. The atmosphere is intimate and bohemian, with communal tables adding to the charm. Seafood here is prepared simply, letting the natural flavours shine. It’s perfect for experiencing Lisbon’s seafood in a laid-back setting. Expect to pay around £27-36 per person.
9. Can the Can
Can the Can in Praça do Comércio puts a creative spin on Portugal’s canned fish tradition. Try innovative dishes like tuna steak with a citrus crust or sardine bruschetta. Its location in the heart of historic downtown makes it ideal for a post-sightseeing meal. Prices are moderate, around £27-45 per person.
10. Monte Mar
For seafood with a view, head to Monte Mar along the Tagus River. Specialising in dishes like fried eel and seafood rice, it combines ocean freshness with traditional Portuguese cuisine. The riverside setting adds a tranquil backdrop to your meal. Budget about £35-55 per person.
11. Penalva da Graça
Tucked away in the Graça neighbourhood, Penalva da Graça is a local favourite, one of the best restaurants known for hearty, traditional Portuguese dishes. The seafood stands out in this casual, unpretentious setting. It’s a bargain too, with meals often under £22 per person.
12. Cacué
Cacué is a small, family-run traditional Portuguese restaurant that feels like dining at a Portuguese grandmother’s house. Off the tourist trail, it’s loved for its traditional seafood dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Expect to pay around £18-27 per person for an authentic, flavour-packed meal.
What dishes to try in the best seafood restaurants in Lisbon?
Why not extend your night after dinner, have a look at my guide to the famous nightlife of Lisbon
When you’re exploring Lisbon’s seafood restaurants, from the bustling Time Out Market to hidden gems in the city centre, make sure to sample these traditional Portuguese seafood dishes:
Bacalhau à Brás
No list of Portuguese cuisine is complete without bacalhau (salt cod). Bacalhau à Brás is a crowd-pleaser you’ll find on almost every seafood menu. It’s a comforting mix of shredded cod, onions, and thin potato strips, all scrambled with eggs. It’s the perfect dish to pair with a crisp white wine.
Arroz de Marisco
This seafood rice is a staple in any popular seafood restaurant. Picture a steaming pot of rice cooked in rich seafood broth, brimming with a variety of seafood like tiger prawns, clams, and mussels. It’s a feast that captures the essence of the Atlantic Ocean.
Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato
Keep an eye out for these garlic clams on seafood menus across Lisbon. Named after a Portuguese poet, these clams are cooked in a sauce that’ll make you want to lick the plate – olive oil, garlic, white wine, and fresh coriander. It’s a simple yet delicious seafood meal.
Polvo à Lagareiro
This octopus dish might turn you into a true seafood enthusiast. The octopus is boiled until tender, then roasted with copious amounts of olive oil and garlic. It’s typically served with punched potatoes (batatas a murro) that soak up all the garlicky goodness.
Cataplana de Marisco
This seafood stew, a favourite among seafood lovers, is named after the clam-shaped copper pot it’s cooked in. It’s a medley of the day’s freshest catch – often a combination of clams, prawns, chorizo, and fish. Many consider it one of the best seafood dishes in Portuguese cuisine.
Sardinhas Assadas
During summer, especially around the Feast of St. Anthony in June, the aroma of grilled sardines fills Lisbon’s air. They’re served simply – grilled and seasoned with sea salt, maybe with a lemon wedge. It’s a quintessential Lisbon experience.
Percebes (Goose Barnacles)
These peculiar-looking seafood delicacies are a must-try for adventurous eaters. Percebes taste like the ocean concentrated into a bite-sized morsel. While not cheap, they’re a unique part of Portugal’s seafood scene.
Açorda de Marisco
This bread soup is a comforting staple in many traditional Portuguese restaurants. Day-old bread is mashed with garlic, coriander, olive oil, and seafood (often prawns), then mixed with a poached egg. It’s a testament to Portuguese cuisine’s no-waste philosophy.
Have a look at my full guide to Lisbon or if you haven’t selected your hotel yet, check out my guide to the best hotels for all budgets
Conclusion
After this mouth-watering journey through the best seafood restaurants in Lisbon, you should have all the ammunition to satisfy your seafood craving. From the bustling atmosphere of Cervejaria Ramiro to the Michelin-starred elegance of Belcanto, Lisbon offers a a haven for every seafood enthusiasts palate and pocket.
Remember, these 12 restaurants are just the tip of the culinary iceberg. Lisbon’s streets are teeming with hidden gems and local favourites waiting to be discovered. Don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path – you might stumble upon your own secret seafood spot!
As you plan your Lisbon adventure, keep in mind that the freshest catch often sells out quickly. It’s worth booking ahead for the more popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist season. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not ask your waiter or even your Uber driver for their personal recommendations? Locals often know the best places that guidebooks miss.
Whether you’re slurping oysters with a view of the Atlantic, tucking into a hearty fish dishes in a family-run tavern, or savouring innovative dishes in a modern venue, Lisbon’s seafood scene is sure to leave you satisfied. Just be prepared – after tasting the incredible flavours of Portuguese seafood, you might find yourself planning your next trip before you’ve even left!
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