There are few places we’ve explored that are as much of a feast for the senses as Portugal. We spent two full months traveling the entire country, from the sun-drenched seafood restaurants of the Algarve to the historic heart of Guimarães in the north. Our mission was simple: to eat everything.
We tried food from tiny tascas in Lisbon, seaside grills serving the freshest catch, and family-run spots deep in the countryside. This guide is the result of that delicious journey. It’s our collection of the traditional Portuguese dishes that you simply have to try, based on our firsthand experience of eating our way across the country.
Traditional Portuguese Food at a Glance
If you’re short on time, here are our top picks to help you decide what to eat first.
- Must-Try Dishes: Pastel de Nata, Bifana, Grilled Sardines, Caldo Verde.
- Best Seafood: Bacalhau, Cataplana de Marisco, Polvo à Lagareiro.
- Best Meat Dishes: Francesinha, Leitão Assado (Suckling Pig), Porco Preto.
- Must-Try Drinks: Vinho Verde, Ginjinha.
1. Pastel de Nata (Custard Tarts)
You can’t talk about traditional Portuguese cuisine without starting here. These bite-sized egg custard tarts are a national treasure. The pastry is impossibly flaky, shattering the moment you bite into it, giving way to a warm, creamy custard centre. They’re typically served with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We’ve eaten more of these than we can count, and our rule is simple: eat them warm, preferably standing right outside the bakery. While there are famous spots in Lisbon, almost every local pastelaria has a fantastic version. It’s the perfect companion to a morning coffee.
2. Bacalhau (Salt Cod)
Bacalhau isn’t just a fish; it’s a Portuguese obsession. It’s said there are more than 365 ways to prepare this dried and salted cod—one for every day of the year. Historically, it was the food that sustained sailors on long voyages, but today it’s a beloved staple found in everything from simple fish cakes to elaborate casseroles. WE really got a good taste of it when we were up in Guimaraes. What amazing food scene.
Dave & Deb’s Take: If you’re new to bacalhau, the best introduction is Bacalhau à Brás. It’s a typical Portuguese dish of shredded cod mixed with onions, scrambled eggs, and thinly fried potatoes. It’s delicious, not too fishy, and a perfect way to experience Portugal’s national dish.
3. Bifana (Pork Sandwich)
The Bifana is Portugal’s answer to the perfect sandwich. It’s simple, cheap, and incredibly satisfying. The sandwich consists of thin slices of pork marinated in garlic, white wine, and spices, served on a soft, fresh bread roll. It’s the ultimate Portuguese comfort food.
Dave & Deb’s Take: The best Bifanas we’ve had are from tiny, no-frills spots where you can hear the pork sizzling on the griddle. Don’t be shy with the mustard, a squeeze of it cuts through the richness of the pork perfectly. It’s the ideal cheap and cheerful lunch.
4. Grilled Sardines (Sardinhas Assadas)
Freshly grilled sardines are a juicy, simple pleasure and a staple of Portuguese cuisine. Historically a dish of the lower classes due to their affordability, they are now a beloved snack or light lunch across the country. The secret is the slow-grilling over charcoal, which keeps the fish moist and packed with flavour.
Dave & Deb’s Take: The best sardines we’ve ever had were from a tiny, no-name grill set up on a side street in the Alfama district of Lisbon during the St. Anthony Festival in June. The whole neighbourhood smelled of grilled fish and charcoal. You eat them with your hands, placing the sardine on a slice of bread to soak up the juices. Don’t be afraid to get messy; it’s all part of the experience.
5. Piri-Piri Chicken
This is one of Portugal’s most famous culinary exports, and for good reason. It’s so much more than just the version you find at chain restaurants. Authentic Portuguese Piri-Piri chicken is spatchcocked, marinated in a flavourful mix of chili, garlic, olive oil, and lemon, and then grilled over charcoal until the skin is crispy and the meat is incredibly juicy.
Dave & Deb’s Take: Every restaurant has its own secret Piri-Piri sauce recipe, and part of the fun is trying different versions. We found the best spots are usually unassuming, local places with a huge charcoal grill out front. It’s typically served with simple fries and a basic salad, which is all you need to accompany the star of the show.
6. Caldo Verde (Green Soup)
Caldo Verde is the ultimate Portuguese comfort food. This warming and flavourful soup originates from the northern Minho region but is now found on menus all across the country. It’s a simple, rustic soup made from potatoes, thinly shredded collard greens (or kale), and slices of smoky chouriço sausage, all brought together with a generous drizzle of olive oil.
Dave & Deb’s Take: This was our go-to starter on cool evenings in Porto. It’s hearty without being heavy, and the combination of the earthy greens and the smoky sausage is perfect. It’s a simple dish, but when it’s done right, it’s one of the most satisfying things you can eat in Portugal.
7. Francesinha (The Queen of Sandwiches)
This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an event. Hailing from Porto, the Francesinha is a beast of a meal, layered with sausage, ham, and steak, then smothered in melted cheese and a rich, spicy, beer-based tomato sauce. It’s messy, decadent, and absolutely unforgettable. Perfect when accompanied by a side of french fries.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We made a special trip to Porto just to try an authentic Francesinha, and it lived up to the hype. It’s arguably the most popular Portuguese food. Our advice? Come hungry, and don’t wear a white shirt. You’ll find it on menus in Lisbon, but it’s worth waiting to try it in its hometown of Porto.
8. Carne de Porco à Alentejana (Pork with Clams)
This is the original Portuguese surf and turf, and it’s a brilliant combination of flavours. The dish combines tender chunks of pork marinated in wine and garlic with fresh clams, all served over a bed of fried potatoes and topped with fresh cilantro. It originated in the Algarve region but is now a beloved classic across the country.
Dave & Deb’s Take: The first time we saw this on a menu, we were a bit skeptical about the pork and clam combo, but it just works. The salty flavour of the clams perfectly complements the rich pork, and the sauce is incredible for dipping your bread in. It’s a must-try for any adventurous foodie.
9. Arroz de Marisco (Seafood Rice)
While it might look like a Spanish paella, Arroz de Marisco is a uniquely Portuguese dish. The key difference is that the rice is cooked in a flavourful broth until it’s much looser and more stew-like than a paella. It’s packed with a generous amount of seafood, typically including prawns, mussels, clams, and squid.
Dave & Deb’s Take: This is a fantastic dish to share. It usually comes to the table in a large clay pot, steaming and fragrant. We love the soupy consistency of the rice, which is packed with the flavour of the sea. It’s a perfect meal for a long, lazy lunch with a bottle of Vinho Verde.
10. Bitoque (Steak and Egg)
Bitoque is a classic Portuguese comfort meal you’ll find in almost every local restaurant or tasca. It’s a simple but satisfying dish of a thin-cut steak (either pork or beef) that’s pan-fried in garlic and butter, then topped with a runny fried egg. It’s almost always served with a side of french fries and rice.
Dave & Deb’s Take: This was our go-to lunch on days when we needed something quick, hearty, and reliable. It’s a no-frills dish, but it’s always delicious. The best part is breaking the fried egg yolk and letting it run over the steak and fries. It’s simple, classic Portuguese cooking at its best.
11. Arroz de Pato (Duck Rice)
This is a classic Portuguese comfort food dish. Arroz de Pato, or duck rice, is a rich and savory dish where the rice is cooked in a flavorful broth made from simmering the duck itself. The tender, shredded duck meat is then mixed into the rice, which is often topped with slices of smoky chouriço and baked until the top is slightly crispy.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We had this on a cool evening in a small, family-run restaurant and it was the perfect hearty meal. It’s much richer and more flavourful than a standard rice dish. The crispy chouriço on top adds the perfect salty, smoky contrast to the tender duck.
12. Polvo à Lagareiro (Octopus with Olive Oil)
If you love seafood, this dish is an absolute must-try. Tender octopus is boiled and then roasted with plenty of garlic and a generous amount of Portuguese olive oil, and typically served with small, roasted potatoes that have been smashed to soak up all the delicious oil.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We were a bit hesitant about octopus before our trips to Portugal, but this dish completely converted us. When it’s cooked well, the octopus is incredibly tender, not chewy at all. It’s a simple dish that really lets the high-quality ingredients shine. It’s one of our go-to orders every time we’re back in Portugal.
13. Bolinhos de Bacalhau (Codfish Cakes)
These are one of Portugal’s most popular snacks or appetizers. Bolinhos de Bacalhau are small, deep-fried fritters made from a mixture of salted cod, potatoes, eggs, and fresh parsley. They are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.
Dave & Deb’s Take: You’ll find these everywhere, from small cafes to high-end restaurants. They’re the perfect snack to have with a cold beer on a sunny afternoon. We love how they’re a simple, delicious bite of Portugal’s most famous fish.
14. Cozido à Portuguesa (Portuguese Stew)
This is a carnivore’s dream and a true taste of typical Portuguese food. Cozido is a hearty boiled stew packed with a huge assortment of meats and vegetables. A typical Cozido can include beef, pork, chicken, and various sausages like chouriço and morcela (blood sausage), all slow-cooked with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage.
Dave & Deb’s Take: Be prepared: this is not a light meal. It’s a massive platter of food, meant to be shared. It’s a fantastic way to sample a huge variety of Portuguese meats and sausages all in one go. It’s a classic Sunday family meal for a reason.
15. Cataplana de Marisco (Portuguese Seafood Stew)
This iconic dish from the Algarve region is as much about the presentation as it is about the flavour. It’s a seafood stew cooked and served in a clam-shaped copper pan called a cataplana. The pan acts like a steamer, locking in all the flavours of the fresh seafood, which typically includes clams, prawns, and fish, cooked in a fragrant broth of tomatoes, white wine, and herbs.
Dave & Deb’s Take: This was the classic Portuguese dish that we had heard about from our friends. So, of course we had to try it. We had this at a seaside restaurant in Lagos, and it was a perfect hearty meal. The moment they open the cataplana at your table and the steam billows out is fantastic. It’s a must-do experience when you’re in the Algarve.
16. Peixinhos da Horta (Fried Green Beans)
Don’t let the simple description fool you; this is one of the most addictive snacks in Portugal. The name literally translates to “little fishes from the garden,” and the dish consists of green beans that are battered and deep-fried until crispy. It’s believed that this dish was the inspiration for what the world now knows as Japanese tempura, introduced by Portuguese traders centuries ago.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We first tried these at a little tapas bar and couldn’t stop ordering them. They’re the perfect appetizer. The batter is light and crispy, and the green bean inside is perfectly tender. It’s a simple, brilliant dish and a great vegetarian option.
17. Picanha
While originally a famous Brazilian cut of beef, Picanha has been wholeheartedly adopted by Portugal. This specific cut, the top sirloin cap, is known for its incredible tenderness and a thick layer of fat that bastes the meat as it grills over charcoal, making it unbelievably juicy and flavourful.
Dave & Deb’s Take: If you see Picanha on the menu and you’re a steak lover, order it. It’s often served simply with fries and black beans. The quality of the beef in Portugal is fantastic, and this is one of the best ways to experience it.
18. Feijoada (Bean Stew)
Another dish with strong Brazilian ties, Feijoada is a rich and hearty stew of black beans and various cuts of pork and beef. While historically made with cheaper cuts, it’s now a beloved comfort food. It’s a slow-cooked, soulful dish that’s perfect for a big, satisfying meal.
Dave & Deb’s Take: This is a true taste of rustic, hearty cuisine. It’s a heavy dish, so it’s best enjoyed on a cooler day. We found it’s a great meal to share, often served with rice and orange slices, which help cut through the richness of the stew.
19. Caldeirada de Peixe (Fish Stew)
This is the quintessential Portuguese fisherman’s stew. A Caldeirada is a beautiful, layered stew made with a variety of fresh fish and potatoes, all cooked together in a flavourful broth of tomatoes, bell peppers, and herbs. The beauty of the dish is that it traditionally uses whatever the fishermen caught that day.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We had this in a small fishing village in the Algarve, and it was incredible. It’s similar to a French Bouillabaisse but heartier and more rustic. It’s a fantastic way to sample a wide variety of local fish all in one go.
20. Ovas (Fish Roe)
For the truly adventurous eater, Ovas is a Portuguese delicacy made from fish roe (eggs). The entire egg sack, typically from a grey mullet, is boiled and then served chilled, often sliced and dressed simply with olive oil, vinegar, and onions alongside boiled potatoes.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We have to admit, this one was a challenge for us at first, but we were determined to try it. The texture is the most unique part—very smooth and silky. It’s a very traditional and historic dish, and if you’re looking to step outside your culinary comfort zone, this is the one to try.
21. Serra da Estrela Cheese
If you are a cheese lover, you have to try Queijo Serra da Estrela. This is Portugal’s most famous cheese, hailing from the Serra da Estrela mountains. It’s a soft, gooey sheep’s milk cheese that is so creamy you often eat it by scooping it out with a spoon. It has a strong, complex flavour that is absolutely unforgettable.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We first tried this Portuguese cheese at a market in Lisbon, and it was a revelation. It’s served at room temperature, and the rind is cut off the top so you can dip bread right into the gooey center. It’s incredibly rich and flavourful. Paired with a glass of red wine, it’s a perfect appetizer.
22. Pão de Deus (God’s Bread)
This is a popular Portuguese bread roll, and its name literally translates to “God’s Bread.” It’s a soft, brioche-like bun with a delicious, sweet shredded coconut topping that gets toasted during baking. It’s a staple in Portuguese bakeries (pastelarias).
Dave & Deb’s Take: This was our go-to breakfast on many mornings in Portugal. It’s not overly sweet, and the soft bread with the slightly crispy coconut topping is a perfect combination with a strong coffee. It’s a simple, delicious way to start your day like a local.
23. Bola de Berlim
These are the Portuguese version of a Berliner or a Bismark doughnut, and they are incredibly popular, especially on the beaches in the summer. They are fluffy, deep-fried doughnuts, rolled in sugar, and traditionally filled with a sweet egg yolk cream (creme de ovos).
Dave & Deb’s Take: You’ll see vendors walking the beaches in the Algarve selling these from coolers, and you should absolutely buy one. They are the perfect beach snack. While the traditional egg cream is the classic, we also love the ones filled with chocolate.
24. Cebolada
Cebolada isn’t a standalone dish, but rather a flavorful onion-based stew or sauce that is a cornerstone of Portuguese home cooking. It’s made by slow-cooking onions with tomatoes and garlic until they are soft and sweet. It’s often served as a base for stewed or pan-fried fish and meat dishes.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We had this served with a beautiful piece of grilled tuna, and it was fantastic. The sweetness of the slow-cooked onions and tomatoes is the perfect complement to the fresh fish. It’s a great example of how simple, high-quality ingredients are the heart of Portuguese cuisine.
25. Linguica (Portuguese Smoked Sausage)
Linguica is a flavourful, smoke-cured pork sausage seasoned with garlic and paprika. It’s a staple in the Portuguese diet and is incredibly versatile. It can be grilled, fried, or added to stews and rice dishes to add a deep, smoky flavour.
Dave & Deb’s Take: This is spicier and more flavourful than a typical chorizo. We love it grilled over an open flame. You’ll often see it served as a simple appetizer, where it’s brought to the table in a flaming ceramic dish. It’s a bit of theatre and incredibly delicious.
26. Port Wine
You can’t go to Portugal without trying its most famous drink. Port is a sweet, fortified wine produced exclusively in the Douro Valley in northern Portugal. It’s typically served as a dessert wine and comes in several varieties, from rich, fruity ruby ports to complex, nutty tawny ports.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We spent a few days exploring the Douro Valley, and it’s one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. The best way to experience Port is to visit one of the Port lodges in Porto for a tasting. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the history and different styles of this iconic Portuguese drink.
27. Vinho Verde (Green Wine)
Don’t let the name fool you; “green wine” isn’t actually green in colour. It’s a young wine (hence “green”) from the Minho region in the north, and it’s light, crisp, and often has a slight effervescence. It’s the perfect refreshing drink for a sunny afternoon.
Dave & Deb’s Take: We drank Vinho Verde almost every day in Portugal. It’s incredibly affordable and pairs perfectly with fresh seafood. It’s light, easy to drink, and quintessentially Portuguese.
28. Ginjinha (Cherry Liqueur)
Ginjinha (or Ginja) is a popular Portuguese liqueur made by infusing sour cherries (ginja berries) in a brandy called aguardente. It’s a sweet, strong liqueur that is a beloved local drink, especially in Lisbon.
Dave & Deb’s Take: The best way to try this is from one of the tiny, historic Ginjinha bars in Lisbon. For about one Euro, you get a shot served in a small glass, often with a cherry in the bottom. You can also ask for it to be served in a small chocolate cup, which is a fun and delicious way to enjoy it.
Planning Your Food Tour of Portugal
- Best Food Tours in Lisbon & Porto: A food tour is one of the best ways to get an introduction to Portuguese cuisine. We recommend taking a tour on your first day to get your bearings and discover some local gems.
- Tips for Dining in Portugal:
- The bread, olives, and other small plates the waiter brings at the start of the meal (the couvert) are not free. If you don’t want them, just politely say “no, thank you.”
- Lunch is typically the main meal of the day, and many restaurants offer a great value prato do dia (dish of the day).
- Dinner is eaten late in Portugal, usually after 8:00 PM.
FAQ: Food in Portugal
What is the national dish of Portugal?
The national dish of Portugal is Bacalhau (dried and salted cod). It is said that there are more than 365 ways to cook it, one for every day of the year.
What is a typical Portuguese breakfast?
A typical Portuguese breakfast is light and simple, often consisting of fresh bread with butter, cheese, or jam, and a coffee (like an espresso or a galão – coffee with milk). The Pão de Deus is also a popular breakfast choice.
Is Portuguese food spicy?
Generally, traditional Portuguese food is not very spicy. The famous Piri-Piri sauce is the main exception, and it is usually served on the side so you can add as much heat as you like.
So, Which Dish Will You Try First?
After spending two full months eating our way from the sunny coast of the Algarve to the historic hills of the north, it’s impossible for us to pick just one favourite Portuguese dish. What we truly fell in love with was the honesty of the food.
Whether it was a simple bowl of Caldo Verde on a cool night in Porto or fresh grilled sardines at a festival in Lisbon, the focus was always on incredible, fresh ingredients prepared with care. But if we had to pick one perfect food memory, it would be sharing a steaming Cataplana de Marisco at a tiny seaside restaurant. The moment the waiter opened that copper pan at our table and the fragrant steam of seafood, wine, and herbs filled the air… that, to us, is the taste of Portugal.
This country’s cuisine is a delicious adventure, and we hope this guide has inspired you to try as many of these traditional Portuguese dishes as you can.
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