The season Lisboners look forward to most is back: the definitive guide to the best places in Lisbon to eat snails

Located right in the heart of the Alcântara neighborhood, near the Carris Museum, the family-friendly spot O Lutador boasts one of the coolest outdoor patios for eating snails and having a few beers.

And yes, the snail platter here is truly the best we’ve ever tasted in the city. You’ll find that you won’t even notice the time passing, nor the number of servings you’ll be ordering. It’s all about eating snails until nightfall.

Marvila wasn’t even trendy yet, and this place was already organizing authentic “excursions” to the neighborhood.

It’s a Lisbon classic, where you can count on friendly service, excellent snails, and an authentic atmosphere. If you’re not into snails, don’t worry—they also serve other snacks here, like pica-pau or a delicious bifana.

You’ll leave here well-fed, whether you eat in or take it home—which is what we did when we went there last time.

This small, quiet spot is in Algés, and around here, you won’t find better snails anywhere—in a place that specializes in this mollusk and also in roasted snails.

Founded in 1959 in Alvalade, Pomar de Alvalade is another spot that has been on the snail trail for several years.

While the weather is still mild, the snails start being served at 5 p.m., but as soon as the heat picks up, they start arriving at the table a little earlier, between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. Clams, cockles, gizzards, and pica-pau are other specialties here.

With the typical atmosphere of a classic neighborhood spot—simple and peaceful—A Tabuense is ideal for snacks with friends or family.

It’s also in the Alvalade neighborhood, and one of its highlights this time of year is the snails and baby snails, which are very popular during the summer season.

Even the snails have made their way to takeout. Here, you just show up, order as many as you want (they even have buckets), and head out for a “snail-filled” picnic wherever you like.

Monsanto Park or the Amnesty International Garden right next door are the quickest options, but any backyard, terrace, or even a balcony is always a good choice. With cold beers in the fridge and toothpicks in the cupboard, you’re all set. Bring on those snails!

In São Domingos de Benfica, there’s a large outdoor terrace that, these days, fills up with people coming to eat some of the best snails Lisbon has to offer.

The snails are incredible, but if you’re looking for seafood, you won’t leave here disappointed either. That’s because O Hoquista has a great selection of seafood that’s sure to satisfy even the most demanding foodies.

The Sé da Guarda restaurant in Algés is a must-visit for anyone who loves snails in the Lisbon area.

During the season, they serve this typical Portuguese snack starting at 5 p.m., keeping the price per serving affordable and consistent. The traditional tavern atmosphere, combined with the friendly service and the quality of the snacks, makes this spot a must-visit for lovers of snails and Portuguese cuisine.

The Benfica flag flying on game days and the snails have become a trademark of this Campolide establishment.

As long as the weather holds up, they’re served Friday through Sunday and on weekends, but after that, they’ll be available every day.

Every year in Loures, one of the country’s biggest snail festivals takes place. It usually runs until July 31.

So it’s no wonder that one of the best places to eat snails is precisely at Apolo 78, located in Loures.