Where To Find Lisbon’s Best Seafood

From hidden bookstores to ancient hat makers, discover the city’s unique shopping scene with this guide to secret Lisbon

Lisbon isn’t known as the Queen of the Sea for nothing; the abundant Portuguese coastline means there’s no shortage of market-fresh seafood, from garlic-drenched scallops to creamy lobster bisque. Follow our guide to the best seafood in Lisbon for everything from old-school restaurants to laidback seafront eateries.

Cervejaria Ramiro

Av. Almirante Reis nº1 – H, 1150-007 Lisboa

It is a gastronomically proven fact that Cervejaria Ramiro is the number one restaurant for seafood in Lisbon. This legendary establishment first opened its doors in 1956, and has been filled with hungry patrons ever since. Prices match the quality of the dishes, which include plates stacked high with succulent lobster, fresh crab, and giant tiger prawns. Reservations are a no-go here, which is just as well: otherwise you’d be waiting all year for an opening.

Aqui Há Peixe

Rua Trindade 18, 1200-468 Lisboa

Aqui Ha Peixe, or Here There Is Fish, does exactly what it says on the tin. Prices are high but the service is relaxed, and the food is most definitely worth it. Chow down on gourmet favourites such as octopus salad and grilled sea bass in a convivial setting of flagstone walls and cheerful marine decor.

Lisboa À Noite

Rua das Gáveas 69, 1200-206 Lisboa

Although not strictly a seafood-only establishment, this restaurant’s devotees aren’t interested in anything else. Tucked away down a narrow street in the historic Bairro Alto, Lisboa à Noite was previously used as a horse stables before becoming one of the most talked about restaurants in town. A commitment to seafood is evident from their menu of juicy scallops, salted bacalhau, and fresh-off-the-boat fish. Don’t miss out on the extensive wine list either.

Gambrinus

Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 23, 1150-264 Lisboa

Established in 1936, the rustic wood-panelled tavern of Gambrinus is something of an institution for seafood in Lisbon. A well-heeled crowd frequent this place for its impeccable service and seafood delicacies, including an unforgettable shellfish bisque and delicious steamed clams. Be prepared to book in advance.

Doca Peixe

Doca de Santo Amaro – Armazém 14, 1350-353 Lisboa

Popularly touted as the freshest of the fresh, Doca Peixe plates up seafood right on the Santo Amaro Dock. From a breezy, elegant dining room and outdoor terrace, guests can specify how they would like their order cooked: whether salt baked, oven baked, or charcoal grilled. Don’t miss out on their specialty bacalhau or lemon-drenched oysters, which are available year-round.

Sea Me Peixaria Moderna

Rua do Loreto, 21, 1200-241 Lisboa

Sea Me may not serve the cheapest oysters on the block, but their fresh sea-salted flavour is unrivalled. Take your pick from the succulent lobsters, tiger prawns, dorado and sole on display at the seafood bar, and it’ll be tossed on the grill with heaps of garlic and plated before you can say ‘obrigado’. It’s not just the delicious fish that gives this little corner in Chiado its impeccable reputation – the staff are charming and the décor has a quirky sense of humour. If the restaurant’s full, try the branch further down the hill in the Time Out Market.

Pesqueiro 25

Rua Nova do Carvalho 11, 1200-161 Lisboa

For a seafood platter of epic proportions, Pesqueiro 25 never disappoints. An indulgent spread of fish, lobster, prawns and mussels are prepared in deliciously simple Portuguese style – read sautéed in olive oil and garlic. The barnacles are an interesting inclusion, but don’t be put off – they’re a local delicacy, best washed down with a bottle of Vinho Verde.