Cheap Eats Lisbon: The Complete Guide to Eating Affordably in the Heart of Portugal

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Welcome to My Cheap Eats Series: Lisbon Edition.

Today’s spotlight is on Lisbon, Portugal—one of my favorite European destinations and a fantastic spot for budget-friendly dining. I know firsthand how easy it is to fall into pricey tourist traps when all you want is a delicious, affordable meal. 

That’s why I’ve curated this guide to help you discover the best cheap eats Lisbon has to offer.

My Cheap Eats series focuses on different destinations to provide valuable information to budget-conscious travelers. It’s basically the blog post I wish I had before traveling to the places I feature in them.

Food costs can add up quickly during travel, but with the right knowledge, you can enjoy delicious meals and stay within budget.

I will give you the exact list of all the places I would eat at AND show you how to save them. It’s not just about discovering budget restaurants – it’s about having a curated list of affordable, yummy spots at your fingertips. 

I’ve personally spent hours sifting through reviews and prices for every single one of these restaurants, doing the work so you don’t have to!

Photo by Nicolas Armoa on Unsplash

Exploring Lisbon’s Culinary Delights on a Budget

Lisbon is renowned for its diverse and delicious cuisine, blending traditional Portuguese dishes with international influences. From fresh seafood to hearty meat dishes and many vegetarian options, there’s something to satisfy everyone.

One of the best ways to experience Lisbon’s culinary delights on a budget is to venture off the beaten path. Seek out local eateries and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, where you’ll often find authentic dishes at good prices. And don’t overlook the city’s markets and food stalls, where you can sample a variety of delicious snacks and street foods for a fraction of the cost of a sit-down meal.

Throughout this guide, I’ll take you on a tour of budget-friendly restaurants and even reveal a little secret – how we relied on pre-made grocery store meals to keep our food expenses in check. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch on the go for a picnic in one of Lisbon’s beautiful parks or ingredients so you can cook at your accommodation – don’t forget that the grocery store is always an option.

And if you’re still on the hunt for accommodation in Lisbon, be sure to check out my guide to the best hostels in Lisbon.

Pro Tip: Local Dining Hours In Lisbon, many restaurants have different dining hours compared to what you might be used to. Lunch is often served from around 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and dinner typically starts around 7:00 PM. Many places close in between, so be sure to plan your meals accordingly to avoid finding yourself without options.

What Traditional Portuguese Dishes Should You Eat in Lisbon on a Budget?

Lisbon offers a rich array of affordable dishes that capture the essence of Portuguese cuisine. Here are some must-try items:

Bifana: A simple yet delicious pork sandwich, typically seasoned with garlic and spices. It’s a popular snack that won’t break the bank.

Pastéis de Nata: These iconic custard tarts are a sweet treat you can’t miss. They’re affordable and available at most bakeries.

Caldo Verde: A traditional green soup made with potatoes, kale, and chouriço (Portuguese sausage). It’s hearty and inexpensive.

Bacalhau à Brás: This dish combines shredded salted cod with onions, potatoes, and eggs. It’s both filling and affordable.

Frango Assado: Grilled chicken, often served with piri-piri sauce, is a budget-friendly option available at many local eateries.

Essential Terms to Know for Budget Dining in Lisbon

Understanding some local terms can enhance your dining experience and help you spot the best deals:

Prato do Dia: Daily Specials for Budget Meals

Prato do Dia translates to “dish of the day” and is a common offering in many Lisbon restaurants. This option is a fantastic way to enjoy a full meal at a lower cost. Here’s why it’s great:

• Variety: The dish changes daily, giving you a taste of different Portuguese specialties.
• Value: It usually includes a main dish, a side, and sometimes a drink or dessert, all for a fixed price.
• Convenience: It’s a quick and easy choice, perfect for those on the go or unsure of what to order.
• Local Experience: Enjoying Prato do Dia lets you eat like a local and discover traditional recipes.

Look for signs outside restaurants advertising the Prato do Dia. It’s especially popular during lunch hours and is a great way to fill up without overspending.

Tascas: Authentic and Affordable Lisbon Eateries

Tascas are small, family-run establishments known for serving hearty, traditional Portuguese food at very affordable prices. Here’s why you should seek them out:

• Authenticity: These spots offer genuine Portuguese cuisine, often made from family recipes passed down through generations.
• Atmosphere: Tascas provide a cozy, informal dining experience, often with a homey feel and personalized service.
• Affordability: Meals at tascas are typically cheaper than at more touristy restaurants, without sacrificing quality.
• Community Vibe: Dining at a tasca often means mingling with locals, providing a richer cultural experience.
• Portion Sizes: The servings are usually generous, ensuring you get good value for your money.

To find the best tascas, look for places filled with locals and avoid the busiest tourist areas. Popular neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto have many excellent tascas.

Let’s talk about Kebab

These quick-service establishments specialize in street food and fast food, including doner kebabs and falafel. The best part? They often have satisfying veggie options. As someone who loves a good falafel gyro, finding these kebab spots in Lisbon felt like hitting the jackpot. A lot of them also serve Indian dishes. I mean, what more could I ask for?! As much as I love local cuisine, you can’t go wrong with grabbing kebab every once in a while.

Pro Tip: The Bread Isn’t Always Free If you’re coming from the US, you might be used to free bread being provided before your meal. In Portugal, however, some restaurants may bring out bread, olives, or other appetizers that aren’t always complimentary. To avoid any surprises, kindly double-check with your server whether these items are included or if there will be a charge.

Top Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Lisbon

Alright, let’s dive right into the good stuff – a straightforward list of top-rated restaurants in Lisbon that offer delicious food at affordable prices. This section is more of your sit down, take your time dining options. I’ve broken this list into two and you’ll find another section below with more of your quick bites, small & kebab style places.

Prices below are based on price of mains.

I’ve included the Google Map link to each where you can save it to your own list, or check out the full map below.

Under €10

• Da Wanmian – Chinese. Large portions of noodle soups. €6. Save in Google Maps.

• Tasca Mastai – Bar. Dinner. Salads, Pizza, Apps. €6.5-€10. Save in Google Maps.

• A Provinciana – Portuguese. Fish, meats, potatoes & cheap house wine. €6-€10. Save in Google Maps.

• Alfama Kebabish – Kebab, Burger, Indian. €5-€9. Save in Google Maps.

• Jardim das Cerejas – Vegan buffet. Hot dishes, salad, bread and soups. €10. Save in Google Maps.

• Restaurant ODAAN – Nepalese & Indian. €5-€9. Save in Google Maps.

• Cerqueira Restaurant – Portuguese. Local, authentic restaurant with many Portuguese dishes. €6-€10. Save in Google Maps.

• Rose Stupa – Nepalese, Indian, Asian. Curries, samosas, etc. €5-€10. Save in Google Maps.

• Fusion Grill – Mediterranean. Wraps, Burgers. €5.50-€10. Save in Google Maps.

• Restaurante RD’s – Nepalese. Soups, dumplings and curries. €8. Save in Google Maps.

• O Cantinho do Alfredo – Portuguese. Traditional, meat, fish & potatoes. €6. Save in Google Maps.

Under €15

• Velha Gaiteira – Portuguese. Traditional. Steaks & soups. €10-€14. Save in Google Maps.

• Yak and Yeti Lisbon – Nepalese & Indian. Curries & rice dishes. €9-€15. Save in Google Maps.

• O Marques – Portuguese. Traditional. Meat, fish & potatoes. €9-€12. Save in Google Maps.

• Two Arches – Portuguese. €8-€12. Save in Google Maps.

• Rui do Barrote – Portuguese. €9-€12. Save in Google Maps.

• Tasquinha do Lagarto – Portuguese. €8-€15. Save in Google Maps.

• Tasca do Gordo – Portuguese. €9-€13. Save in Google Maps.

• Zé dos Cornos – Portuguese. €9-€15. Save in Google Maps.

• Floresta da Estefânia – Portuguese. €7-€12. Save in Google Maps.

• Das Flores – Portuguese. €6.50-€12. Save in Google Maps.

Pro Tip: Tipping Etiquette Tipping in Portugal is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated for good service. A small tip of 5-10% is generally sufficient if you’re pleased with the service. Make sure to check if a service charge has already been added to your bill before leaving a tip.

Best Budget-Friendly Quick Bites in Lisbon

Under €8

• A Merendeira – Portuguese. Soup and sandwiches. €3-€7. Save in Google Maps.

• Manteigaria – Bakery. Pastel De Nata. €1-€5. Save in Google Maps.

• Camões – Breakfast. Pastries. €1-€4. Save in Google Maps.

• Lama Lo – Falafel. €6-€8. Save in Google Maps.

Under €12

• Xburger-Grill&Kebab – Kebab, Burgers. €3.50-€10. Save in Google Maps.

• Asian Street Food – Food court style. €8-€10. Save in Google Maps.

• PIZZARIA LOCAL E KEBAB – Pizza, Kebab. €6-€10. Save in Google Maps.

• Kebab & Grill the Baixa – Kebab, salads, burger. €5-€12. Save in Google Maps.

Pro Tip: Cash vs. Card While many places in Lisbon accept credit and debit cards, some smaller, local restaurants and eateries may only take cash. It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash with you just in case. 

Cheap Eats Lisbon Map

How to Save This Map

To save this map to your Google Maps account, click the star icon next to the map title. You can access it on your phone or computer by opening Google Maps, tapping the menu button, navigating to ‘Your Places,’ and then selecting ‘Maps.’ This map will be listed there for your convenience.

Utilizing Grocery Stores for Budget Travelers

It’s never a bad option to stop by grocery stores on your travels. Not only is it fun to see what local supermarkets look like and compare prices to home, it’s a great place to grab ready made meals. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a money-saving choice, many grocery stores have ready-to-eat options.

We often picked up ready-made salads from Pingo Doce, specifically this one here as it was near to our accommodation. We mostly went there for breakfast things, lunches, and other easy options for travel days or when we felt like saving some money.

While I don’t often buy ingredients to cook meals at our accommodation, as I find the time and hassle not worth it, grocery stores are fantastic for pre-made meals, drinks, and breakfasts.

Too Good to Go App: Fighting Food Waste and Saving Money

The Too Good to Go app aligns perfectly with budget-conscious travel. It is a nifty app that hooks you up with restaurants and stores selling surplus unsold food at discounted prices. Not only does it save you cash, but it also contributes to curbing food waste. Win-win, right?

Lisbon specifically has a lot of offerings on this app, so it’s a great city to try it out! Download the Too Good to Go app here and start saving.

Photo by Suzi Kim on Unsplash

Creating Your Own Lisbon Cheap Eats Map

Alright, let’s talk about my ultimate travel sidekick: Google Maps. If you haven’t tapped into its full potential yet, now’s the time.

Here’s how you do it:

1. Open Google Maps: Start by opening Google Maps on your phone or computer.

2. Create a New List: Click on “Saved” in the menu, then go to “Lists” and create a new list. Let’s call it “Cheap Eats Lisbon.”

3. Save Favorite Spots: Use this list to save your favorite budget-friendly restaurant spots. When you’re on the google listing of the restaurant click save and then select the list you just made.

4. What to look for: I usually look for places that are 4+ stars and I also quickly check the images for up to date menus and reviews for keywords like prices and affordable to help gauge actual cost.

Maybe you’ve been there: Standing on the sidewalk, starring into your phone looking at Trip Advisor, blogs, and google reviews all while trying to enjoy your vacation. Having a place to go to that already has a curated section of affordable spots will make sure that this doesn’t happen again.

With your “Cheap Eats Lisbon” map, you can quickly pull up a list of places to eat and head to the nearest one, knowing you’ve already done the research.

Or, you can download my curated map here: Download My Cheap Eats Lisbon Map

Wrapping Up: Cheap Eats in Lisbon

I hope this guide has been a valuable resource for you! I had a blast putting it together and combing through all the top-rated spots.

Ready to continue your adventure? Check out my list of 5 Affordable International Destinations (including Portugal!) for additional travel inspiration.

Looking for a place to stay while exploring Lisbon? Book your accommodation through Booking.com or find great deals on hostels with Hostelworld.

As you plan your travels, be sure to bookmark your favorite spots and dive into Lisbon’s food scene with confidence. If you have any other favorite Lisbon eats, I’d love to hear them—drop a comment below!