Last Updated on February 10, 2026 by Emma Fajcz | Published: December 8, 2018
Once the meeting point of Portuguese intellectuals, Chiado has become a popular destination for shopping and dining. But where do you eat in the very heart of Lisbon? We want you to experience the best of the best, so here’s our top 7 restaurants in Chiado, including an option for our vegan friends!
Are you coming to Lisbon soon? Don’t waste a single meal—check out our ultimate foodie guide to where to eat in Lisbon!
Table of Contents
1. Taberna da Rua das Flores: Petiscos
If you’re new to the whole petiscos scene in Lisbon, you should head to Taberna da Rua das Flores. This tiny restaurant gets its name from its street, Rua das Flores.
Anything worth having is worth waiting for, and that definitely rings true here. Once you’re in, the waiter will approach you with a giant blackboard, which is the menu. The dishes change every day according to the chef’s inspiration and seasonal ingredients.
If you’re lucky to spot meia-desfeita (codfish salad), we recommend giving it a go. Don’t forget, petiscos are made to share, so bring a friend with you!
Insider’s Tip: You can only pay with cash, and they don’t accept reservations, so make sure to arrive early.
2. Sacramento do Chiado: Traditional Meal with a Twist
What better way to start a meal then with a delicious plate of prawns with garlic? At Sacramento do Chiado, you can try this and many other traditional Portuguese dishes with a twist. The restaurant gains extra points for its relaxed atmosphere and the old vaulted ceilings, reminiscing of the building’s past as a noble palace.
We really like their Bacalhau com Broa (Codfish with Corn Bread Crumbs) and the Pernil de Porco (Roasted Pork Ham). At lunch, you can opt for the €14 buffet and try a variety of dishes.
Insider’s tip: To save some money, skip the couvert!
3. Cantinho do Avillez: Famous Spot for Portuguese Cuisine
Chef José Avillez is a reference in Portuguese gastronomy. Today he owns more than ten dining spots, including Lisbon’s two-Michelin-star restaurant, Belcanto. But before he made it big, he only had one restaurant—Cantinho do Avillez. Translated as “Avillez’s little corner”, this Chiado restaurant blends Portuguese cuisine with international ingredients.
Some of the most requested dishes at Cantinho do Avillez are the Carabineiros do Algarve com Molho Thai (prawns with Thai sauce) and the hazelnut dessert Avelã³.
4. Alma: Relaxed Michelin-Star Restaurant
Alma means “soul” in Portuguese, and that’s what you can expect to find here—food for the soul. Henrique Sá Pessoa is the chef behind this Michelin-star restaurant famous for its reinterpretations of Portuguese classics.
They have tasting menus, but you can also order à la carte. If you do, we recommend trying the Calçada de Bacalhau (salted cod with onion purée and egg yolk).
5. Sea Me: Modern Fishery
Right across the street from Manteigaria, our favorite spot for Portuguese custard tarts, you’ll find Sea Me. As you might have guessed by the name, it’s all about the sea here! The restaurant celebrates the link between Portugal and Japan, with contemporary dishes such as the sardine nigiri sushi and the sea bass salad with seaweed.
Like most seafood restaurants in Lisbon, a fish meal always ends with a prego, a traditional steak sandwich. Don’t ask us why, just try it!
Insider’s tip: The restaurant is usually quite busy, so make sure to book in advance.
6. Boa-Bao: Journey Through Asia
You’re about to embark on a journey through Asia! Boa-Bao hasn’t been around for long, but it has already become one of the most popular restaurants in Chiado.
Here you can try a selection of Asian dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and many other regions. We love their gua baos (pork belly buns) and the Malaysian curry soup, which, by the way, is big enough to share! Oh, and they also do take away.
Insider’s tip: Sit outside and admire the stunning tiled façade of Casa do Ferreira das Tabuletas.
7. Ao 26 Vegan Food Project: Vegan Restaurant
Even the most skeptic meat eaters will love the 26 Vegan Food Project. Everything is vegan here, but that doesn’t mean it’s tasteless!
They have top-notch burgers made with beetroot and lentils, which are served in a delicious bolo do caco (a typical bread from Madeira made with sweet potato). For dessert, there’s an Oreo tart with peanut butter and chocolate–need we say more?
Insider’s Tip: The restaurant is quite popular, so try to book a table in advance!
Explore Chiado’s Food with Us!
We love the Chiado neighborhood so much that we want to show you around. On our Ultimate Lisbon Food Tour, we’ll take you to a handful of our favorite spots in this charming district—as well as in Baixa, Bica and Cais do Sodré. You’ll know your way around Lisbon like the back of your hand by the time we’re done—and come away full, happy, and packed with insider foodie knowledge that will come in handy throughout your Portuguese adventure.
Featured Review: Ultimate Lisbon Food Tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Nina toured us around Lisbon, she took us to excellent restaurants and cafes with a wide variety of food to try. She was so knowledgeable and friendly, we had an excellent time ! We appreciated all of the extra art history/city history that we learned along the way. We highly recommend touring with Nina!”
– Maria on Tripadvisor
Best Restaurants in Chiado, Lisbon FAQs
What are the best restaurants in Chiado, Lisbon?
Chiado is one of Lisbon’s top dining neighborhoods, known for its mix of traditional Portuguese restaurants, modern eateries, and cozy cafés. You’ll find everything from classic bacalhau dishes and petiscos (Portuguese tapas) to international cuisine and excellent vegetarian and vegan options, all within walking distance of the district’s main sights.
Is Chiado a good area for food in Lisbon?
Yes, Chiado is one of the best areas in Lisbon for dining thanks to its central location, historic atmosphere, and wide range of restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a quick coffee and pastry, Chiado offers plenty of high-quality choices for every budget.
Do I need reservations for restaurants in Chiado?
Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants in Chiado, especially for dinner and weekends. Many of the district’s top spots are small and fill up quickly, so booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on Lisbon’s most sought-after dining experiences.
What type of food can you eat in Chiado, Lisbon?
In Chiado, you can enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine such as seafood and bacalhau (salt cod), alongside modern Portuguese cooking, international favorites, and vegan options. The neighborhood is also famous for historic cafés serving coffee, pastries, and light meals throughout the day.
Is Chiado expensive for dining in Lisbon?
Chiado has a reputation for slightly higher prices due to its central location, but there are still plenty of affordable options. From budget-friendly cafés and casual eateries to upscale restaurants for special occasions, Chiado offers something for every type of traveler and budget.
