Experience the true flavors of Portugal by indulging in its rich culinary heritage. From the freshest seafood to perfectly grilled meats, from delectable pastries to mouthwatering cheese, Portugal’s foods are a gastronomic adventure that you simply can’t miss. So, take a seat at a Portuguese table and get ready to taste the country’s vibrant culture through its delicious cuisine. Don’t forget to sip on some of Portugal’s finest wines while you’re at it! Check out these must-try dishes and get a head start on your culinary journey before your trip.
Keep in mind that some links are paid affiliate links. When you buy through these links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Any opinions expressed are not impacted by this.
Best Portuguese Foods to Try in Portugal
Pastel de Nata
Pastel de Nata is a sweet and creamy egg custard pastry that is a beloved national treasure of Portugal. This iconic pastry is made with a buttery, flaky pastry shell that is filled with a rich and silky egg custard and baked to a golden brown. The warm and gooey center is delicately caramelized, creating a heavenly blend of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Pastel de Nata is traditionally served with a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar, making it the perfect snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re in Lisbon, Porto or any other part of Portugal, Pastel de Nata is a must-try delicacy that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Bring a taste of Portugal to your kitchen! Nothing beats the sweet, creamy goodness of a homemade pastel de nata. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create this beloved pastry right in your own home. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! You will need mini pie tins or a mini muffin pan.
Pastel de Nata Cooking Class in Lisbon
Learn to make one of Portugal’s most famous dishes – the pastel de nata, or custard tart. Enjoy a hands-on cooking class right in the heart of Lisbon. You also learn to make another Portuguese pastry, making this class a two-for-one special.
Caldeirada de Enguias
Caldeirada de Enguias is a traditional fish stew that is a popular dish in coastal regions of Portugal, especially in the Algarve. This flavorful dish is made with eels, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, peppers, and a variety of herbs and spices, all slow-cooked in a savory broth that is flavored with white wine and olive oil. The result is a hearty and aromatic stew that is bursting with the delicious flavors of the sea.
Caldeirada de Enguias is typically served with crusty bread and a glass of chilled white wine, making it the perfect meal for a lazy afternoon on the beach. This dish is a testament to Portugal’s rich culinary heritage and its deep connection to the ocean. If you’re a seafood lover looking for something new and authentic, Caldeirada de Enguias is a must-try dish that you won’t forget.
The 10 Tastings of Lisbon With Locals: Private Food Tour
Take a private half-day food tour of Lisbon which will ensure you feast on the best food that Portugal’s capital has to offer. Your gastronome guide handpicks eateries in which to sample Portuguese specialties and traditional drinks: pleasure your palate with delicacies such as ‘pastel de bacalhau‘ (cod croquettes), ‘pastel de nata’ (custard tart) and much more. During the journey between eateries, enjoy panoramic city vistas and explore Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Your private tour can be tailored to suit dietary requirements and preferences.
Francesinha
Francesinha is a mouthwatering sandwich that is a specialty of Porto, Portugal. This indulgent dish is made with layers of bread, ham, linguiça (smoked sausage), fresh sausage, roast meat, and covered in melted Edam (cheese), all smothered in a rich and spicy tomato sauce. The sandwich is then topped with a fried egg and served with a generous portion of french fries.
The result is a rich, savory, and satisfying sandwich that is perfect for indulging in on a lazy afternoon. Francesinha is a beloved part of Porto’s culinary scene, and can be found in restaurants and cafes throughout the city. Francesinha is a must-try dish that will leave you feeling full and happy.
Porto: 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting Tour – Guided Experience
Try regional delights at Porto’s Beloved cafes and markets, from sweet custard tarts to savory classics like a ‘bolinho de bacalhau’ codfish. Taste northern Portugal’s world-renowned export of Port and learn its history and cultural impact.
Posta Mirandesa
Posta Mirandesa is a succulent steak dish that is a specialty of the region of Miranda do Douro, located in the northeast corner of Portugal. It’s made with a thick, juicy cut of thick tenderloin beef from the indigenous Maronesa cattle, which is seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and coarse salt, and then grilled to perfection over hot coals. The steak is served with a side of fried potatoes, vegetables, and a drizzle of olive oil, resulting in a satisfying hearty meal.
Posta Mirandesa is a dish that embodies the rich cultural heritage of the region, and is often enjoyed as part of a communal meal with family and friends. Posta Mirandesa is an authentic Portuguese dish you cannot miss if you’re a meat lover.
Chourico
Chouriço is a popular traditional Portuguese sausage that is made with pork meat, paprika, garlic, and wine. This flavorful sausage is a staple of Portuguese cuisine and can be found in restaurants, markets, and homes throughout the country. Chouriço can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from grilling it as a main dish, to adding it to stews, soups, and rice dishes to enhance their flavor.
It is often brought to the table in terracotta dishes shaped like pigs, with alcohol poured over the sausage. The waiter will then light the alcohol which will char the sausages perfectly until the flames have died out and you can enjoy!
The smoky and spicy taste of chouriço is a true reflection of Portugal’s culinary heritage and its love for simple, yet delicious food. No matter what your taste buds crave, chouriço is a must-try delicacy that will enchant you and leave you craving more.
Pasteis de Bacalhau
According to legend, there are 365 ways to cook salt cod in Portugal. Pasteis de Bacalhau, also known as salt cod fritters, are a popular appetizer in Portugal that are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
These crispy and golden brown fritters are made with salt cod, potatoes, eggs, onions, and parsley, which are formed into small patties and deep-fried until they are perfectly cooked. Pasteis de Bacalhau are typically served with a side of spicy piri-piri sauce or mayonnaise, and can be found in restaurants, cafes, and food stalls throughout Portugal. They make a great appetizer, snack, or meal so try them whenever you get a chance.
Portuguese Wine
There is no better place to be if you are a wine lover than Portugal!
There is a long and rich tradition of winemaking in Portugal, and its wines are widely acclaimed for their flavor, aroma, and character. Each region of the country has its own unique terroir and grape varieties.
Some of the most famous wine regions in Portugal include the Douro Valley, which is known for producing the country’s famous port wine, as well as the Alentejo, Dão, and Vinho Verde regions. Among the grape varieties grown in Portugal are Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, and Castelo for red wines, and Arinto, Alvarinho, and Encruzado for white wines.
There is no doubt that Portuguese wines are famous for their complexity, depth, and balance, and they are a perfect complement to grilled meats, seafood, stews, soups, and cheeses.
Douro Valley Wine Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking Douro Valley and indulge in the best wines Portugal has to offer! Take an immersive wine tour that will take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of the Douro Valley, where the world-renowned port wine is produced. Savor the unique flavors of the region, enjoy tastings at award-winning wineries, and learn about the winemaking process from expert vintners. This all-inclusive adventure is the perfect opportunity for wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike to discover the beauty and history of the Douro Valley, all while indulging in the very best of Portuguese hospitality.
What’s Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Porto (OPO), out of Lisbon (LIS)
- Manual car rental for duration – upgrade to automatic available
- 2 nights in Porto at the Caléway Hotel, or similar
- Oporto river cruise & wine cellar visit
- 2 nights in Douro at the Hotel Douro Palace, or similar
- Douro Quinta visit & wine tasting
- 2 nights in Lisbon at the Hotel Lisboa Plaza, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Porto to Lisbon Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to Porto! Stay at the Caléway Hotel.
Day 2 – Porto River Cruise & Wine Cellar visit
Day 3 – Porto to Douro: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa
Day 4 – Wine Tour of Douro Valley with Lunch
Day 5 – Douro to Lisbon: Hotel Lisbon Plaza
Day 6 – Enjoy Lisbon freely.
Day 7 – Fly Home
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience! Book your Douro Valley wine adventure tour today.
Happy Wandering – Portugal’s Foods!
Portugal’s cuisine is a true gastronomic adventure that is sure to delight food lovers. From fresh seafood dishes to hearty stews, traditional sweets, and world-renowned wines, Portugal’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious foodie, be sure to add Portugal to your list of must-visit destinations for an unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to indulge in the flavors and aromas of Portugal’s rich food culture – you won’t be disappointed!
Read more about Portugal to help you plan your trip including:
- 20+ Things You Should Know Before Your Road Trip In Portugal
- Visiting Portugal: A Whimsical Daytrip in the Forests and Palaces of Sintra
- Visiting Portugal: Onyria Quinta da Marinha Villas Review
- Visiting Portugal: Getting From Lisbon to Cascais
- How to Get The Best Flight Deal to Europe
Ready to Wander?
Try one of my favorite resources!
ugh, these pictures are amazing!! making me drool over here
Mission accomplished! Thanks for visiting.