Portugal is rich in culture and traditions, and gastronomy is undoubtedly one of the most authentic expressions of this richness. As such, Lisbon is full of small, cosy establishments worthy of the status of true icons of Portuguese cuisine — the typical tascas.

Today, visiting tascas means embracing the true gastronomic experience of our country. "Going to a tasca" guarantees you'll enjoy a home-cooked meal, from classic portuguese snacks to traditional dishes filled with flavour. If we've whetted your appetite, come explore our itinerary that brings together the best Portuguese tascas in the city, from the most traditional to the most contemporary.

Traditional Tascas: The Flavor of Authenticity

Traditional tascas are the heart of Portuguese gastronomy. Many have a history that dates back decades or even centuries, and their cosy atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner accompanied by lively conversations.

Restaurante 1º de Maio

This emblematic restaurant in Bairro Alto is a true sanctuary of Portuguese cuisine, where home-cooked food is served in generous portions. Frequented by artists, intellectuals, and visitors from all over, the place is an icon of the city. Opening the small green door on Rua da Atalaia transports us to a cosy setting, decorated with typical tiles and wooden tables covered with elegant green tablecloths, where Portugal's spirit and authentic flavours meet in every detail.

Location: Rua da Atalaia 8, Lisbon (Bairro Alto)

Adega do Tagarro

At Adega do Tagarro, the art of snacking takes centre stage. The famous cod fritters, which won a cooking competition in 1980, were created by D. Amália, a true legend of Portuguese gastronomy. To this day, these delights are the stars of this tasca, which opened its doors in 1977. Currently, Judite and Paula, D. Amália's daughters, run the restaurant, maintaining the family spirit that has always characterized it.

Location: Rua Luz Soriano, 21, Lisbon (Bairro Alto)

Zé da Mouraria

Zé da Mouraria is a tasca known for its generous portions. Ordering the famous cod, served with chickpeas and "murro" potatoes, is an impressive experience due to the size of the platter that arrives at the table. Open only for lunch, the space often has long lines outside, attesting to its popularity.

Since 2015, a second Zé da Mouraria location has operated on Rua Gomes Freire, where you can enjoy dinners with an à la carte menu. Among the options are classic dishes like grilled cod and garlic beef strips.

Location:

Zé da Mouraria - Rua João do Outeiro, 24, Lisbon (Mouraria)

Zé da Mouraria 2 - Rua Gomes Freire, 60-62, Lisbon (Campo Mártires da Pátria)

A Tasquinha do Lagarto

At Tasquinha do Lagarto, you know what to expect: generous dishes of Minho cuisine, like succulent cod fritters, offal rice, and Portuguese stew. The space, decorated with references to Sporting Clube de Portugal, offers an authentic and flavorful gastronomic experience.

Despite the strong visual link to the club, the name of the tasca is not related to Sporting fans. The "lagarto" (lizard) that gives the house its name is a taxidermied reptile over a hundred years old, inherited from the former owner, who likely brought it back from the Overseas War.

Location: Rua de Campolide, 258, Lisbon (Campolide)

Imperial de Campo de Ourique

Imperial de Campo de Ourique, also known as "Tasca do João,” is one of the most renowned tascas in the neighbourhood. Famous for its traditional flavours that transport us to the lands of Alto Minho, it boasts a menu of beloved dishes, from "iscas" to feijoada and "arroz de cabidela." But it’s not just the menu that captivates visitors; the ambience is cosy and often described as a true "family home,” where everyone is welcomed with attention and care, especially by the very kind Mr João.

Location: Rua Correia Teles, 67, Lisbon (Campo de Ourique)

Contemporary Tascas: The New Generation

While traditional tascas preserve the true essence of Portuguese cuisine, contemporary tascas add a modern twist to classic recipes. These new interpretations of Portuguese gastronomy are gaining prominence, providing innovative experiences without losing touch with their cultural roots.

O Velho Eurico

O Velho Eurico is one of the most popular modern tascas in Lisbon, known for its excellent Portuguese food prepared by chef Zé Paulo Rocha and his team. Originally a traditional tasca in the Castelo neighbourhood, under Eurico's management, it offered typical dishes from the Minho province, such as cod and pork dishes. Since being taken over by a new generation in 2018, the restaurant has maintained its roots in traditional cuisine, but with more refined techniques. Bacalhau à Brás is one of the most praised dishes, combining tradition and innovation. If you want to try it, making a reservation in advance is essential due to high demand.

Location: Largo São Cristóvão, 3, Lisbon (Castelo)

Tasca Baldracca

Tasca Baldracca, neighbouring O Velho Eurico, is another popular modern tasca in Lisbon. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, good food, and a wide variety of drinks, the space is ideal for spending hours with friends, and savouring various small dishes designed to be shared. Founded by chef Pedro Monteiro, who also leads the kitchen at Fábrica da Musa and is part of the NKOTB collective, Baldracca reflects the new generation of chefs renewing Lisbon's gastronomy, maintaining Portuguese tradition while embracing innovative approaches. 

Location: Rua das Farinhas 1, Lisbon (Castelo)

Taberna Sal Grosso

Taberna Sal Grosso was one of the pioneers among the new modern tascas in Lisbon, standing out for serving simple Portuguese food executed with excellence. Located near Santa Apolónia station, the restaurant is cosy and relaxed. The menu varies according to fresh market ingredients, with specialities written on a slate on the wall. Among the dishes, one can find duck "iscas," bone marrow, or cod tongues with pea purée. Staying true to tradition, they serve bread with pork lard instead of butter or olive oil.

Location: Calçada do Forte 22, Lisbon (Santa Apolónia)

Taberna da Rua das Flores

Taberna da Rua das Flores maintains the essence of a typical Portuguese tavern, but its menu goes far beyond expectations. Led by creative chef André Magalhães, the menu changes daily and is also presented on a slate. The cuisine blends traditional Portuguese flavours with ingredients and techniques from other cultures, especially from former colonies, creating innovative flavour combinations. Dishes like okonomiyaki with caldo verde and rabbit with piri-piri showcase this fusion.

Location: Rua das Flores 103, Lisbon (Chiado)

Ofício Tasco Atípico

Ofício is a unique tasca that, while straying from the traditional approach, retains the classic flavours of Portuguese gastronomy. With a menu crafted by chef Hugo Candeias, the dishes reinterpret Portuguese snacks with a mix of international influences. The menu features light dishes such as mackerel with lettuce vinaigrette and beef tartare with bone marrow, as well as more substantial options like quail with escabeche sauce and old-fashioned baked rice. Here, dessert also stands out, with an innovative version of the classic "bolo de bolacha," enriched with chocolate ganache.

Location: Rua Nova da Trindade 11, Lisbon (Bairro Alto)

Tascas are an essential part of Portuguese culture, representing hospitality and a love for good food. Whether in a traditional or contemporary tasca, each visit is an opportunity to experience the authentic flavours of Portugal.

On your next visit to Lisbon, we recommend that you include one or more of these tascas in your gastronomic itinerary. The experience will undoubtedly be unforgettable, especially if you visit the city during the fall when the smell of roasted chestnuts fills the streets from the traditional vendors of St Martin's.