Taberna da Rua das Flores
It’s a modern restaurant that opened eight years ago, but it feels quite old. It has a nice and intimate atmosphere, a cosy and bohemian feel. The chef is inspired by experiences from around the world after travelling a lot, and he has a curious eye for strange and wonderful things, so let him explain the dishes to you. Most importantly, they have very generous servings!
Rua das Flores 103, 1200-015 Lisbon

O Fidalgo
This place has been around for ages; I remember my father used to take me here. It’s quite small, only six or seven tables. It has a traditional feel, probably because it’s a family restaurant, owned by a husband and wife. They have the best octopus dish I’ve ever tried; it comes with a great bean stew. But they also do basic Portuguese stuff, like scrambled eggs with pork sausages.
Rua da Barroca 27, 1200-047 Lisbon

Quiosque Príncipe Real
This is a small kiosk on a square; traditionally, it’s the kind of place you get your paper and coffee from, very popular across Lisbon. But this one is modernised, selling sour cherry liquor and other traditional Portuguese drinks. They only use local and regional brands, and you can get nice snacks with your drink – perfect for a sunny Lisbon afternoon.
Praça Príncipe Real, 1250-301 Lisbon

O Bar da Odete
It’s a new project – a restaurant with lots of nice interior details. It’s also a wine bar that sells cured meat and cheese. The jamón is from different regions of the country, and they display it in the window. It’s open in the afternoon; I like to come here for a snack and drink before going out to dinner.
Rua do Jardim do Regedor 47b, 1150-193 Lisbon

Gambrinus
This place is a bit like a luxury restaurant, but it’s not opulent. To start with, it’s situated in a back street close to a music hall, but the food is excellent. It’s been here 60-odd years, and my father used to come here. It’s classy and traditional, very focused on seafood. They do a great steak sandwich, but I always have the turned-over prawns or the seafood bread porridge, which is mixed table-side.
Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 23, 1150-264 Lisbon