Portugal is one of our favorite budget destinations for food and drink. A multitude of fish and meat dishes, not to mention amazing wines for every palate, are available for very reasonable prices in Portugal’s capital city.
But in Lisbon, just like in any other large metropolis in Europe, it matters when, where, and what you eat. These factors can have a dramatic effect on how much you end up spending.
Lisbon Cheap Eats Guide
Are you ready to dine out in Lisbon? Here’s how to eat on the cheap in this beautiful Portuguese city.
1. Feast on fixed-price fare at lunch
If you want to try a variety of local dishes at a fraction of the cost, go out at lunch and order a local restaurant’s fixed-price menu, called the prato de dia. Ordering the same dishes à la carte will cost you approximately twice as much in the evening.
A typical Lisbon lunch paired with a glass of local beer. Photo: Tim C.
2. Research before you go
Knowing what’s out there, what prices to expect, and what times things are actually open will save you money. This way, you won’t end up stuck in a chain restaurant or a tourist trap. Some of the city’s best budget restaurants close for a couple of hours before dinner after serving lunch.
3. Get away from the busy main streets
This is especially true in the Old Town of Lisbon. Restaurants located next to a tourist attraction are likely to be more expensive. For cheaper eats, head to the Fado Museum area where you’ll find reasonably priced local fare.
4. Go where the locals go
Seek out locations populated by locals for authentic and inexpensive food. A good hint? If you hear Portuguese and see older folks running the place, you’re in the right spot.
Enjoy fresh seafood, like these grilled sardines, in Lisbon. Photo: Theo K
5. Eat on Portuguese time
Adjust to the local dining schedule for the best deals. Breakfast offers run until about 10 a.m. Lunchtime specials peak around 1 p.m., while dinner typically begins around 8 p.m., with locals dining as late as 11 p.m.
6. Snack at neighborhood bars
Neighborhood bars may not be flashy but they offer an authentic experience with simple food and local drinks, such as olives and chicken pot pie (torta de frango).
Discover cheap and tasty eats at a classic Lisbon neighborhood bar. Photo: We Love Lisbon
7. Drink house wine
House wine in Portugal is affordable and perfectly suitable for most, except serious wine connoisseurs. It’s less expensive than ordering a bottle of specific vintage wine.
8. Skip mixed drinks
While mixed drinks may be less expensive in Lisbon compared to London or Paris, sticking to wine and beer will help you manage your budget better.
9. Don’t leave a big tip
Service workers in Portugal receive living wages, so a few coins as a tip is sufficient. If you’re impressed by exceptional service, consider leaving a more generous tip.
10. Skip hotel breakfasts
Hotel breakfasts are usually overpriced. Instead, enjoy a galão (coffee with milk) and pasteis de nata (pastry with custard filling) at local cafes for €2 or less.
11. Leave that plate of olives alone
In Lisbon, bread and olives served before a meal are usually not complimentary, so it’s better to buy these from local markets for a picnic.
12. Order a half-ration
Not very hungry? Order a half-ration, or mini pratos, which are affordable and start at just €3–4 for a substantial portion.
