Join Saul Schwartz as he dives into the culinary scene of Lisbon, Portugal, exploring options for vegans and vegetarians in a place known for its seafood and meat dishes. Saul shares his tips and suggestions for those seeking healthy and plant-based meals in this vibrant city.
My wife Fern and I spent four days exploring Lisbon and Sintra in October. We dedicated two days to Lisbon’s historic center, one day in the scenic Belém area, and another in Sintra National Park. Here are our top recommendations for enjoying Lisbon’s flavors.
On our last day, we had an outstanding vegan lunch hosted by Chef Mateus at the Ambiente Hostel on Avenida Almirante Reis, near the Anjos Metro stop. We reserved this two-hour, multi-course meal through Airbnb events for 45€ per person, which included drinks. Chef Mateus made us feel welcome with his beautifully decorated dining room featuring paintings and carefully set tables. Our meal began with homemade bread and various spreads, followed by a delicious soup, a main course with potatoes, and the best dessert we had in Lisbon. The chef used fresh vegetables and fruits from local farmers, and the experience was one of our trip highlights.
For lunch on our first day, we visited an exceptional vegan restaurant in the Chiado neighborhood, recommended by our tour guide Gabriel. We enjoyed fresh salads made with seasonal vegetables. Opened in 2016, this place has repeatedly been named the best vegan restaurant in Lisbon, offering high-quality organic ingredients at reasonable prices.
On our second evening, we had dinner at Saldanha Mar, located within the Doubletree Hotel. Though slightly pricier, the food was excellent. We started with olives and bread, followed by a mixed salad and a delicious swordfish main course with potatoes. The staff was very friendly, and dinner service ran from 7 to 10 p.m.
On the third night, we dined at another casual eatery in the Chiado area. This restaurant focuses on promoting a healthy lifestyle, serving nutritious salads with fresh vegetables. The prices were affordable, and the staff was helpful.
Our last day included a visit to A Brasileira café, a historic spot in Chiado known for its Parisian-style interior and artistic atmosphere. Established in 1905, it was once a meeting place for Lisbon’s intellectuals. We enjoyed coffee and tea while taking in the café’s rich history.
We also explored the Mercardo 31 de Janeiro, a vibrant local market near our hotel filled with colorful produce and seafood. It was a fun place to experience the local food scene.
For those wanting more recommendations on what to see and do in and around Lisbon, including Belém and Sintra, check out related articles for further exploration tips. Saul Schwartz, based in Alexandria, Virginia, has a passion for European travel and interacting with locals to learn about their cultures.
suansuan