.png)
If you're looking for the best of the best Lisbon lunch inspo, you've come to the right place. Here's a list of 8 delightful options for lunch in Lisbon when visiting the city.
1. Yallah: A Taste of the Middle East in Bairro Alto
A true hidden gem that we've not yet spotted on any other Lisbon guides... Located in the lively Bairro Alto district, Yallah transports you straight to the Middle East. Yallah evokes the concept of street food from the Middle East dreamed up by Chef Hagay Elle from reminiscing on his childhood eats. Try their 'Shawarma Plate,' a tantalising combination of succulent beef or chicken, served with fragrant rice, and a side of creamy hummus. Grab one of the pittas for a quick but tasty lunch.
2. Cafeh Tehran: Persian Elegance in Príncipe Real
Located in Príncipe Real, on the prettiest neighbourhood square in Lisbon (Praça das Flores), Cafeh Tehran offers a taste of Iran. There's usually a lunchtime queue so get there when you can before the rush. The 'Kebab Barg' is a mouthwatering plate of marinated and grilled beef tenderloin served with fluffy saffron rice. Try it alongside the Jerusalem Mix. Delicious.
3. Vesuviano: Italian Elegance in Baixa
A unique concept to Lisbon - Vesuviano in Baixa serves incredible ravioli and focaccia dishes to eat in or takeaway, so perfect for lunchtime. For those craving Italian cuisine, Vesuviano is a must - the menu includes ragu ravioli, pumpkin ravioli, mushroom and truffle ravioli and more. There's even a couple of vegan dishes. Their passionate owner explained to us that he simply wanted to offer the food he would most want to eat - and that happens to be ravioli and focaccia!
4. Time Out Market: A Culinary Adventure in Cais do Sodré
Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré is a bustling foodie's paradise. The best way to describe it is a curation of the different dishes and cuisines Lisbon's food scene has to offer. The choices are endless, but don't miss the 'Prego no Bolo do Caco' from O Prego da Peixaria—a juicy steak sandwich served on a soft Madeiran bread roll. The food hall has more than 40 vendors and hundreds of seats making it a perfect lunchspot. Not only that but its a great place to people watch or even end up in a conversation with other travellers or locals on the large shared table!
5. Boa-Bao: A Journey Through Asian Flavours in Príncipe Real
In the trendy Príncipe Real neighbourhood, Boa-Bao offers Asian fusion delights. The interiors are inspired by the Asian markets of the 1920s and the atmosphere is lively. Not just a place to go for dinner, you can stop by for a fresh and delicious lunch, too. Perhaps indulge in 'Phad Thai Gai,' a classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish with chicken and peanuts. We can safely report that they succeed in their mission of taking you on a memorable "Asian Food Journey"!
Read more about Boa-Boa as one of our featured places here.
6. Lupita Pizza: Italian Comfort in Cais do Sodré
Lupita Pizza crafts heavenly, naturally leavened pizzas. Rock up at lunchtime to either sit in or takeaway. The Friday night waitlist we experienced is testament to their pizza mastery (if you do this perhaps request a glass of one of their natural wines while you wait). The 'Prosciutto e Rucola' pizza, adorned with fragrant prosciutto and fresh rocket, is an Italian classic to die for. No wonder Lupita Pizza have been named one of the top 50 pizzerias in Europe 2023.
7. Panda Cantina: Chinese Soul Food in Baixa
Head to Baixa to find Panda Cantina, a tiny Chinese cantina. Well known as the 'best ramen in town', speedy service, and prices for lunch usually below 10 euros, its a lunch option that's hard to beat. Note that you can't make reservations if you want to sit in so try and go outside of the typical lunchtime rush. Try the 'Kung Pao Chicken' for a spicy and savoury kick, just like we imagine you'd get on the streets of China.
8. Seagull Method Cafe: Hidden Gem in Príncipe Real
Seagull Method Cafe in Príncipe Real is perfect for a cozy lunch. Those in the know are aware that Seagull Method Cafe is the sister joint of popular Heim Cafe, so will know to expect a real treat dining here. Perfect for lunch when you're visiting the area or working from "home" (they are laptop friendly!). The pink, plant-clad exterior is inviting enough but the food is really the main enticement. Hot tip: Don't. miss. the. pancakes.
Hopefully this guide shows you that Lisbon's diverse culinary scene caters to all palates, making it a dream destination for food-loving travellers looking for lunch in Lisbon. Whether you're in the mood for Middle Eastern, Italian, or Asian delights, these lunch spots have got your cravings covered. So, ditch the fast food and immerse yourself in the heavenly lunchtime hotspots of Lisbon!