Plenty of good food options in Portugal, particularly for fish and shellfish. Menus in top restaurants are on par with other major European cities, where one will encounter Portuguese cooking mixed with continental classics. Moreover, prices are quite reasonable compared to other major cities.

In Porto, the first restaurant I tried, which was simply delicious, was Terreiro. Excellent seafood and friendly service.

 

Also in Porto, the charming Belle Epoque Majestic Cafe is considered the oldest cafe in the city (circa 1921).  Lots of tourists come to take photos of the place. I would not recommend dining here though, as it is not anything to write home about. A cafe and a pastry will be enough.

 

Fabrica da Nata is a must visit – with shops in Porto and Lisbon (and make sure you take a peek at their lovely tea rooms!). They specialize in the national cream custard tart.

 

On my walk back to the train station in Sintra, Incomum by Luis Santos caught my eye and I am so glad I went in. Swiss-trained Chef Santos is shaking up the scene with his modern take on Portuguese cuisine.

 

Ribaduoro is considered to be one of Lisbon‘s best cervejarias that specializes in seafood. Lots of locals come to this place.

 

Facing the impressive Praca do Comercio in Lisbon is Chefe Cordeiro — a Michelin starred chef, his restaurant is known for the bacalhau (cod) dishes.

 

The best meal I had in Lisbon is at Kiko Martin’s A Cevicheria. Be forewarned as no reservations are accepted at this very popular 24-seat restaurant that serves amazing Portuguese food which pays homage to Peruvian cooking.

 

In Porto, I stayed at A.S. 1829 Hotel which is well located in the historic district of the city. The building was originally a stationary shop that opened in 1829 and has been converted into a 41 room hotel. Service is friendly and professional and the amenities are functional.

 

In Lisbon, the Inspira Santa Marta Hotel is a few blocks away from Avenida da Liberdade. Designed with feng shui principles in modern aesthetics, the hotel has 89 rooms. Service is a bit spotty at this hotel.