My best Lisbon hidden gems

I’ve been living in Lisbon for a few years now, and one of my favorite things to do is seek out places that feel personal and unique.

I love sharing these finds with friends – and now with you. In this guide, you’ll find my handpicked recommendations for the best hidden gem cafes, breakfast spots, international restaurants, workshops, and small shops.

These are the places I return to again and again, where the food is delicious, the atmosphere welcoming, and the people passionate about what they do. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to blend in, discover local traditions, and take home something unique, this list is for you. Let’s explore Lisbon’s hidden gems together.

My favorite hidden Gem cafes in Lisbon

Coffee plays a vital role in Portuguese culture. Locals often stop at their favorite quiosques or small cafes to enjoy a bica, the traditional strong espresso, while standing at the counter before continuing their day.

In recent years, the coffee scene in Lisbon has evolved. New foreign- and Portuguese-owned cafes have opened, offering speciality coffee made from unique beans and roasts. These spots are about community, sitting down, relaxing, and savoring an espresso or a cappuccino. Still, the tradition of grabbing a quick bica at the counter remains popular. Here’s a curated list of my favorite cafes in Lisbon – perfect for a leisurely coffee break or a quick pick-me-up.

Milkees

Midnight Espresso

Do Beco

Fábrica

Breakfast Hidden Gems in Lisbon

I love a good breakfast. It’s a “Sunday thing” for me. I go early to avoid the crowd, and then I linger! One or two coffees, eggs, or a delicious toast with cheese or avocado. I always photograph my breakfasts, and lately, I have started to sketch them. So, this has become a lovely ritual for me.

Here are some of my favorite breakfast spots.

Shakar

Bom Dia

Magnolia Bistrot & Wine

Seagull Method

Hello, Kristof

They are very different from each other and are worth visiting.

One of my favorite breakfast places is the Do Beco. They bake their sourdoughs and other breads and serve amazing eggs!

Best Hidden Gems in Lisbon: International restaurants

Lisbon is quickly becoming a top foodie destination. You can still find excellent local dishes at tascas, the family-owned restaurants serving traditional Portuguese meals, and in Portuguese restaurants. I’m excited about the city’s growing international community and how it’s bringing exciting flavors from around the world. Different cultures and tastes merge, creating a vibrant food scene here in Lisbon.

Here’s a curated list of Lisbon’s restaurants

Clube do Jornalista

Touta Ballouta Lebanese restaurant

Pomme Eatery

Imanol Authentic Spanish tapas

The Oven Indian and Nepalese restaurant

Canalha Amazing fish, meat and more

Tapisco  Portuguese tapas

Great food, a great atmosphere, and a great budget!

Not all my hidden gem tips are budget spots, so please check out their sites to view prices and make sure they are a fit. These three restaurants are budget-friendly and unique. I go often! Mezze (Middle Eastern food) is in a food market in Arroios, and an NGO founded it to help immigrants integrate into their new society through food.

CAM cafeteria: Best museum cafeteria in Lisbon! Barouk is a Lebanese restaurant at the LX Factory. It is an excellent spot for lunch and relaxing while sightseeing in that area. AnNam, Vietnamese restaurant

Workshops, hobbies, and fun things to do

I am always going on and on about the importance of having hobbies, taking your hobbies on your trips, or traveling around hobbies. Hobbies are a fantastic way to connect with people and to learn new things. I have met so many people through my hobbies when I travel. Join a few classes while you are visiting Lisbon!

Serranofil: Learn the art of Arraiolo stitching in Lisbon

Lisbon Sketchers

Create your mosaic in Lisbon

Shopping hidden gems

Lisbon has fantastic stores.

One of my favourite stores in Lisbon is 71 Castilho.

You can find beautiful clothes by Maliparmi and other amazing designers.

71 Castilho is on one of the most famous streets in Lisbon (Castilho) and near the Parque Eduardo VII, my favourite park in Lisbon!

Shopping in Lisbon

Lisbon has fun shops all over and don’t skip the markets on the plazas! You’ll find some great surprises there.

Amazing curated fashion store in the Chiado: Soul Mood

Creative handbags (purses) in Lisbon

Galeria Reverso: Art to Wear

Vintage Clothes and Jewelry: Outra Face da Lua

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Updated June 2025