Fine Dining in Portugal: The Top 5 Restaurants in Lisbon

From its deep maritime roots to its picturesque streets, Lisbon is a travelers dream: offering the perfect union of history, culture and art. If you're anything like me, you like to stay busy during your travels and by the end of the day you've worked up quite an appetite. Portugal's restaurants don't disappoint, and whether you're craving slow-cooked meats, freshly baked bread or have a hankering for fresh local seafood, Lisbon's culinary scene has just what you're looking for. Here's our list of the top 5 restaurants in Lisbon: world-class fine dining establishments sure to sate your appetite.

Restaurante Eleven: Fresh Gourmet

Lisbon has a clear winner when it comes to gourmet dining and Restaurante Eleven, located in the heart of Lisbon's business district, handily takes the prize. Restaurante Eleven was the brainchild of eleven close friends who wanted to offer Lisbon a world-class restaurant in the heart of the city. Their goal was achieved and Michelin-starred chef Joachim Koerper has earned rave reviews for his philosophy of selecting fresh, local ingredients each and every day. Diners will enjoy an elegant, intimate interior at Eleven. Candles provide soft lighting and large windows offer stunning views of Lisbon and the Tagus. Eleven's walls are graced with artwork by two of the city's most famous contemporary painters (Joana Vasconcelos and Jorge Cruz), and with a breathtaking private dining area and sweeping terrace views, Restaurante Eleven is a popular choice for a small gathering or an elite business lunch.

Oliver Restaurante: Mouth-Watering Mediterranean

Whether you're a history buff or simply like the finer things in life, you'll be impressed with the rich, sumptuous interior of Oliver Restaurante. The decor here is pink satin, a color inspired by Marie Antoinette, and Oliver is a favorite destination among local celebrities. If you're planning a dream date in Lisbon, we recommend booking the restaurant's stunning VIP room - a private oasis which is ideal for those seeking romance. Renowned for its Menu (created by Oliver himself), diners enjoy rare options here such as kobe beef, paired with the flexibility of a delicious A la carte menu. Rooted in the Mediterranean flavors which put Portuguese cuisine on the map, Oliver Restaruante is an excellent upscale choice - easily making our list of the top 5 restaurants in Lisbon.

Restaurante Doca Peixe: Satisfying Seafood

Seafood lovers will rejoice at the fresh, delicious menu offered at Restaurante Doca Peixe. Lisbon is famous for its fresh seafood, but of all the wonderful restaurants here, we feel that Doca Peixe stands apart. Situated on Santo Amaro Dock, Doca Peixe is both a local favorite and an international draw. Serving locally caught fish and shellfish (often caught within hours of preparation), diners are offered a choice of preparation styles at Doca Peixe. Bacalhau (Doca Peixe's famed salted cod) is one of the house specialties, and oyster lovers can celebrate - as these delicious morsels are available year-round here.

Companhia do Largo: A Modern Masterpiece

Visitors to Companhia do Largo are in for a treat. The interior of the restaurant is modern and mellow. Successfully blending old with new, Companhia do Largo offers visitors a rich, welcoming atmosphere which is modern without sacrificing charm. The plating and presentation will impress foodies who favor sophistication, but guests who enjoy casual dining will also feel at home in Companhia do Largo. You can find Companhia do Largo at Largo da Anunciada 20 (Avenida da Liberdade) in Lisbon (+351 21 347 0392). Enjoy some of the most delicious tapas and small plate dishes to share. 

Bica Do Sapato: Wine Lover's Dream

Actor John Malkovich is part-owner of Bica Do Sapato - a lively restaurant which serves terrific live music and delicious views of the River Tagus. Diners at Bica Do Sapato can anticipate a charming, refined 70s atmosphere with well-prepared international cuisine. Sushi lovers in particular will enjoy Bica Do Sapato, as it serves some of the freshest and tastiest sushi in Lisbon. Traditional Portuguese dishes are offered a fresh take at Bica Do Sapato, making this gourmet restaurant a popular choice with locals.

Are you a wine lover? Then this is the restaurant for you. The wine list is expansive with varietals from every region of Portugal, allowing you to take an impromptu tour of the Portuguese countryside without leaving your table. If the wine at Bico Do Sapato inspires you, then be sure to read about our Portugal Wine Tour, so you can experience all the fantastic local winemaking Portugal has to offer.

Tour Lisbon in a Rental Car from Auto Europe

One of the best ways to take a food-inspired tour of Lisbon and Portugal is in a rental car from Auto Europe. With our low-rate guarantee and 24/7 live phone support (1-888-223-5555) you can enjoy peace of mind on the road. You may visit Lisbon for the art and architecture, but we think you'll want to stay for the city's delicious gourmet food. Treat yourself at one of our top 5 restaurants in Lisbon during your next trip to Portugal.

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