Best Lisbon Lunch Spots, From Stylish Restaurants to Humble Bistros

Paul Bernhardt

By , Local Expert, Lisbon
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Lisbon’s elegant Chiado district is where you’ll find Cantinho do Avillez. This chic little restaurant offers a menu designed by Michelin star chef José Avillez and celebrates traditional Portuguese gastronomy. Across town in Alfama Chapitô à Mesa wins applause for its colourful cuisine and wacky location – the restaurant is housed in a circus school. Lovers of Spanish tapas will certainly appreciate the appetising selection at Mesón Andaluz, located near Cais do Sodré. Spanish customers think so too, a great compliment! Al fresco dining can be enjoyed at Aura down in the Baixa area: tables look out...  Read more »
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    Cantinho do Avillez Restaurant

    The cuisine at Cantinho do Avillez is created by a Michelin starred chef, and excellent value for money.

    Local Expert Tip: "If ordering wine, consider a bottle of the restaurant's own 'JA', a hearty red created by chef Avillez and the highly respected producer José Bentos dos Santos. "

     
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    Chapitô à Mesa

    The concept behind Chapitô à Mesa is totally unique, the ambiance youthful and laid-back.

    Local Expert Tip: "To reach the restaurant you have to walk through an arts and crafts shop. Take a minute to browse the handmade jewellery. "

     
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    Mesón Andaluz

    Among Mesón Andaluz's customers are Spanish nationals -- the highest compliment for a tapas bar in Portugal.

    Local Expert Tip: "Be sure to admire the carefully refurbished arched stonework towards the back of the restaurant."

     
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    Aura

    It's not the only restaurant on Praça do Comércio, but Aura is noted for its haute cuisine.

    Local Expert Tip: "Just to the side of the restaurant is the handsome Claustros Páteo da Galé (cloisters). Nip in and take a look. "

     
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    Bistrô & Brechó Gato Pardo

    A place to chill over good food in homely and unhurried surroundings. Cat lovers take note.

    Local Expert Tip: "Diners are encouraged to sketch their own cat logo on napkins and other pieces of paper. The best efforts are collected and later framed for posterity."

     
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    Cafeteria Mensagem

    Healthy food and great river views make Cafeteria Mensagem a worthwhile excursion.

    Local Expert Tip: "Some of Lisbon's most impressive historic monuments, including Torre de Belém, are within walking distance."

     
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    5 Oceanos

    • Cuisine: European, Portuguese
    • Average Main Course Price: €30
    • Neighborhood: 24 de Julho & Docas/Alcantara

    An enviable waterside location and easy-going table staff help uphold the reputation 5 Oceanos has garnered over the years.

    Local Expert Tip: "Santo Amaro docks are located west of the city centre and a taxi is the most convenient way to reach the restaurant. However, the Cascais train stops at Alcântara Mar station. From here it's a 10-minute walk."

     
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    Portas do Sol

    This is a picture postcard of locations, and Portas do Sol has one of the best views in town.

    Local Expert Tip: "A novel way to reach the restaurant is by tram 28. The streetcar pulls up on the other side of the square."

     
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    Beira Gare

    Beira Gare is everybody's restaurant. Everybody eats here, and everybody keeps coming back.

    Local Expert Tip: "Try the Bohemia beer. It's similar to ale and has quite a kick to it. "

     
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    Pois Café

    Pois, Café is regarded as a meeting of travellers' minds as much as a place to sample homemade fare.

    Local Expert Tip: "The café has shelves lined with paperbacks. Customers can exchange old books and DVDs with the fellow travellers, leaving something they've seen/read and taking away something they haven't. "