When the days grow long and the nights fill with the music of the Popular Saints, Lisbon transforms with its decorated streets, contagious joy, and the irresistible aroma of grilled sardines wafting through the air. This is what happens when we eat the first ones of the year, around the time of the city’s Saint Anthony festivities.
More than just a tradition, sardines are part of the national identity. And they’re also good for your health: they’re nutritious, rich in omega-3, and a key part of a balanced diet.
Around this time of the month, we start eating the best sardines of each season—the kind that, when their fat drips onto the grill, make that incredible sound we love so much: it’s a sign that they’re perfect for eating, especially at these restaurants in Lisbon.
Zé dos Cornos
Authentic flavors, a relaxed tavern atmosphere, and grilled sardines as tradition dictates. Rustic and hearty recipes , perfect for sharing with family and friends over a lovely lunch or dinner.
Solar 31 da Calçada
On one of the city’s most scenic streets, Solar 31 is a go-to spot for anyone looking for fresh fish and tasty sardines, served in a cozy and very friendly setting.
Visconde da Luz
Here, the sardines are prepared with great skill by Chef João Martins, who knows exactly the right moment to remove them from the grill, ensuring they remain juicy and with the flavor of fresh fish clearly evident. They can be served with boiled potatoes and a bell pepper salad or, if you prefer, with a fresh tomato and onion salad.
Casa da Índia
This is a Lisbon classic, famous for the tiles on the walls, the neighborhood vibe, and the authentic grilled sardines— so delicious you’ll struggle to stop at just one serving.
It’s famous for its seafood, but the grilled sardines win you over right away, and you’ll also be blown away by the terrace overlooking the Tagus River, making this one of our favorite spots to “savor” the summer.
Pateo 13
In Alfama, there’s a lively courtyard where sardines are served with joy and bread— the secret ingredients of tradition and hospitality.
Último Porto
This is one of the most hidden restaurants in Lisbon, right next to the Tagus, where the grill never stops and the sardines are served with a view of the river. Reservations are essential, especially during the summer season.
Nothing beats eating grilled sardines by the Tagus River, with your feet in the sand, at sunset, and with fish that’s always fresh. On one of the most iconic beaches of Costa Caparica, at Fonte da Telha, you’ll find that restaurant.
Solar do Kadete
This is one of the classics in Cais do Sodré, always serving excellent grilled sardines and featuring a terrace with that quintessential Lisbon vibe—perfect for sharing good times at the table with friends and family.
Extra tip for Sardine Lovers
Always book in advance, especially during these warmer summer months, because the best restaurants fill up fast this time of year.
To wrap up this guide to the best places to eat grilled sardines in Lisbon, it’s worth remembering that, more than just a simple dish, grilled sardines are synonymous with celebration, togetherness, and tradition.
Whether in the lively neighborhoods of Alfama, Mouraria, or Graça, or at a table shared among friends and strangers, savoring a grilled sardine is a celebration of the true Lisbon spirit.
Enjoy every moment, immerse yourself in this tradition, and let yourself be enveloped by the warmth of summer nights and the unique flavor of sardines on bread.
