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The best independent guide to Lisbon
LisbonLisboaPortugal.com
The best independent guide to Lisbon
The best Italian restaurants in Lisbon
Lisbon's Italian culinary scene has evolved into one of Europe's most dynamic and authentic dining destinations, offering an impressive variety of flavours that spans from traditional trattorias to innovative modern establishments.
What sets Lisbon's Italian dining apart is its commitment to authenticity combined with creative adaptation. Visionary chefs have pioneered a movement that respects traditional Italian techniques while incorporating premium local Portuguese ingredients, creating a unique fusion that honours both culinary traditions. The scene caters to every preference and budget, from inexpensive €6 pasta dishes at neighbourhood gems to sophisticated truffle experiences at upscale establishments.
This comprehensive guide explores the city's finest Italian restaurants, each selected for their exceptional quality, authentic flavours, and distinctive character that together form Lisbon's compelling Italian culinary landscape.
Italian restaurants in Lisbon
Come Prima
Come Prima stands as Lisbon's premier destination for authentic Italian gastronomy, earning recognition as an upscale traditional restaurant with particular mastery in truffle cuisine and homemade organic fresh pasta. Its culinary philosophy centres on delivering an uncompromising authentic experience that has established it as a national reference point for Italian dining excellence.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The restaurant serves as Portugal's national reference for truffle tasting, featuring signature dishes like Tajarin with sage and fresh black truffle. Homemade organic pasta, crafted daily with organic eggs and selected flour, forms the foundation for offerings including Rigatoni al Ragù di Maiale di ghianda and Linguini nero con gambero rosso dell'Algarve. Slow-cooked risottos and substantial dishes like Ossobuco di vitello mirandesa complete the menu alongside classic tiramisu and curated Portuguese and Italian wines.
The Maestros: Chef Tanka Sapkota, distinguished as ‘Knight of the Truffles of Alba,’ leads the kitchen with what's described as a ‘Portuguese heart and Italian soul.’ This internationally awarded chef operates several esteemed Lisbon establishments and has guided Come Prima since 1999 in Lapa's traditional setting, emphasizing authenticity, ingredient respect, and hospitality.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: The restaurant offers an elegant, cozy atmosphere across two floors with multiple rooms. Beautiful wood floors, mezzanine levels, and romantic dimmed lighting with dark wood decor create an intimate, refined dining environment.
The Public Voice: Patrons consistently praise the 'phenomenal food' and 'exquisite Italian dishes', with many considering it 'one of the best Italian restaurants in Portugal'. The exceptional personalized service and cozy environment contribute significantly to its outstanding reputation.
Location: Located at Rua do Olival 258, 1200-744
Website: www.comeprima.pt
Forno d'Oro
Positioned in the mid-range to upscale segment, Forno d'Oro is primarily a Neapolitan pizza-focused establishment. It distinguishes itself through high-quality, often local and organic ingredients and adherence to traditional pizza-making techniques.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The pizzas feature an 'extremely light texture' achieved through 36-hour fermentation using barbela wheat flour from Chef Tanka's own farm. Notable creations include Pizza con Culatello di Zibello e Burrata and the Transumância, which blends Italian tradition with Portuguese flair using Alentejo truffles and Serra da Estrela sheep cheese. The menu also offers pasta dishes like Bucatini all'amatriciana, classic starters, and Italian desserts alongside craft beers and wines.
The Maestros: Chef Tanka Sapkota, who also owns Come Prima and Il Mercato, opened Forno d'Oro in 2014. His philosophy focuses on 'the finest ingredients and simplicity in the wood-fired oven.' Chef Sapkota notably discovered Portugal's first summer black truffle in 2024.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: The restaurant's design respects tradition, with its emblematic golden oven fuelled by volcanic stones serving as the prominent central feature, creating an authentic culinary atmosphere.
The Public Voice: Customers consistently praise the unique flavours, excellent service, and superior pizza dough quality. Forno d'Oro maintains a strong reputation as a Lisbon institution for high-quality, internationally acclaimed Neapolitan pizzas.
Location: Located at Rua Artilharia 1, 16B, 1250-039
Website: fornodoro.pt
Il Mercato
Operating in the upscale segment, Il Mercato presents an innovative concept that seamlessly combines refined dining with an internal gourmet market. The focus is on high-quality Italian products with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), offering patrons the opportunity to both dine and purchase premium ingredients.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The restaurant celebrates homemade organic fresh pasta crafted with organic eggs, available for dining and purchase. Signature dishes include Tagliatelle al Ragù featuring veal, oxtail, and acorn-fed black pork slow-cooked for five hours, and Linguine alla Aragosta with fresh lobster. The internal market showcases Italian cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano Vacche Rosse, cured meats including Culatello di Zibello PDO, and a selection of Italian and Portuguese wines.
The Maestros: Chef Tanka Sapkota, who also owns Come Prima and Forno d'Oro, opened Il Mercato in 2016. His philosophy emphasizes seasonal ingredients and traditional methods, pioneering Lisbon's 'gastronomic grocery store where you can eat' concept.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: Located within the sophisticated Pateo Bagatela in central Lisbon, the restaurant features a tranquil terrace in a pedestrian zone. The dual function as dining establishment and gourmet grocery creates a distinctive atmosphere that immerses patrons in Italian culinary culture.
The Public Voice: Il Mercato receives praise for its innovative market-restaurant concept and commitment to authentic PDO ingredients. The fresh homemade pasta and unique shopping-dining experience consistently garner positive feedback, establishing it as a sophisticated Italian destination in Lisbon.
Location: Located at Rua Artilharia 1, 51 Bloco B, Loja M, 1250-038
Website: ilmercato.pt
Lupita Pizzaria
Lupita specializes in naturally leavened, Neapolitan-style pizzas with bubbly, blackened crusts. This mid-range establishment blends traditional techniques with creative toppings, complemented by a curated selection of natural wines and craft beers.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The menu ranges from classic Margherita to inventive combinations like pepperoni with pickled jalapeños and honey, or pineapple with bacon and pickled red onion. Vegan options feature caramelized onions, mushrooms, and walnut-raisin vinaigrette. Popular accompaniments include Cheesy Garlic Bread and Basque burnt cheesecake, paired with natural wines and MUSA IPA.
The Maestros: Chef Duda Ferreira leads the culinary team, conducting pizza masterclasses and developing innovative Italian flavours. Lupita opened in September 2019 in the convenient Cais do Sodré location.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: This tiny space creates an energetic blend of restaurant and street food counter vibes. The small dining room, usually packed with customers, offers casual dining at low tables with a dynamic, bustling atmosphere that often requires queuing for tables.
The Public Voice: Patrons consistently praise Lupita as having 'the best pizza' with 'perfect crust' and 'delicious' flavours. The fresh ingredients, energetic atmosphere, and enthusiastic staff receive frequent commendation. While the no-reservations policy creates waiting times, the popularity demonstrates the quality that earned it recognition as Europe's 45th top pizzeria.
Location: Located at Rua de São Paulo 79, 1200-427
Casanostra
Casanostra offers traditional, home-style Italian cuisine with a defining emphasis on original ingredients imported from Italy, complemented by fresh produce from its own garden. This mid-range establishment serves a comprehensive menu of thin-crust pizzas, pasta dishes, and meat selections, with clearly indicated gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: Pasta forms the cornerstone with dishes like Spaghetti alla carbonara (both Casanostra and Roman styles), Troffie al pesto, and Ravioli di 'nduja. Meat offerings include Ossobuco alla milanese and Filetto al gorgonzola. Antipasti selections feature Melanzana grigliata and various Carpaccios, while desserts showcase Italian classics like Tiramisù and Cassata siciliana, all prepared with 'best Italian DOP ingredients.'
The Maestros: Founded by Italian Maria Paola Porru in 1986, Casanostra pioneered Lisbon's Italian dining scene by introducing cuisine beyond pizza and pasta. With over 30 years of operation, it has achieved 'cult spot' status in Bairro Alto.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: The interior embraces a charming 'grandmother's kitchen style' with a quiet but friendly ambience that creates a welcoming, comfortable dining experience in the heart of Bairro Alto.
The Public Voice: Patrons consistently praise the 'flavourful and reasonably priced' food and 'excellent attention and quality', often calling it 'one of the best Italian restaurants in Portugal'. While generally well-regarded for its charming ambiance and quality dishes, some diners have noted occasional inconsistencies in execution, though the restaurant maintains its reputation as a beloved pioneer of authentic Italian cuisine in Lisbon.
Location: Located at Travessa do Poço da Cidade 60, 1200-333
Website: www.casanostra.pt
Italy Caffe Ristorante
Italy Caffe Ristorante offers traditional Italian cuisine with a primary focus on classic pasta and pizza dishes in a mid-range setting that attracts both locals and visitors seeking authentic Italian cooking.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The extensive pizza menu features options like Pizza Gustosa with spicy salami and fried egg, Pizza Carbonara, and Pizza Parma. Pasta selections include homemade pasta with prawns and pesto, Spaghetti alla matriciana, and Lasagna della casa. Antipasti like Carpaccio di lombo de vitela and classic desserts such as Cannolo siciliano and Tiramisù complete the traditional offerings.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: Features a spacious terrace and informal, casual warm ambiance with a distinctly 'Neapolitan touch.' The authentic Italian environment is frequently filled with locals, contributing to its genuine neighbourhood feel and welcoming atmosphere.
The Public Voice: Patrons consistently praise the 'flavourful and reasonably priced' food and 'excellent attention and quality,' often calling it 'one of the best Italian restaurants in Portugal.' The authentic Italian meal experience and attentive, personable service receive frequent commendation, though some minor inconsistencies in preparation and service have been occasionally noted.
Location: Located at Av. Duque de Ávila 26B, 1000-141
Website: www.italycafferistorante.com
La Trattoria
La Trattoria operates in the mid-range to upscale segment, offering traditional Italian cuisine with an extensive menu of pasta, pizza, and notably a popular buffet option. The restaurant claims to be 'the first restaurant to serve Italian cuisine in Lisbon,' suggesting deep-rooted culinary heritage and understanding of local preferences.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The menu features extensive pasta and risotto selections including La gran carbonara, Risotto agli asparagi, and Pappardelle con ragù di coda di bue. Pizza options include ham and burrata combinations, while antipasti feature Melanzane alla parmigiana and Crocchette di funghi porcini. Traditional desserts like Tiramisù complete the offerings, with the lunch buffet being particularly popular among diners.
The Maestros: As Lisbon's claimed first Italian restaurant, La Trattoria has established itself through decades of operation, building expertise in traditional Italian cooking methods and adapting to local dining preferences while maintaining authentic flavours.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: The restaurant offers a cozy space with relaxed atmosphere in true Italian fashion. Its generous size comfortably accommodates large groups, with interior decor frequently praised by visitors seeking an authentic Italian dining environment.
The Public Voice: Patrons appreciate the 'good food and great service' along with the 'great value buffet at lunchtimes.' The gluten-free pizza options receive particular praise, though some diners have noted occasional inconsistencies in food quality and preparation standards.
Location: Located at Rua da Artilharia 1, 79, 1250-038
Website: www.latrattoria.pt
Allora Restaurante Italiano & Bar
This upscale establishment within the 5-star Epic Sana Marquês hotel offers sophisticated Italian dining with an open kitchen, homemade pasta, charcoal-grilled specialties, antipasti counter, and gelato dessert bar. The culinary philosophy draws from 'cucina della nonna' reimagined with refined, modern touches.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: Fresh homemade pasta crafted daily forms the menu cornerstone. The Executive Menu offers dishes like Vitello tonnato, Black Angus Lasagna, and Truffle Tagliollini for €32. Premium offerings include Spaghettoni Cacio e Pepe, Risotto al Carabineiro, and Pappardelle al Ragú with veal and oxtail. The bar features classic aperitivi, Mediterranean wines, and signature cocktails.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: Features refined decor with a 'giardino all'italiana' outdoor terrace beside a fountain. The interior showcases magnificent chandeliers, Arabescato Carrara marble counters, and murals. The open kitchen with its central orange tree creates an attractive focal point in the elegant Italian setting.
The Public Voice: Patrons consistently praise the 'exceptional service' and describe food as 'absolute knockout,' particularly highlighting the homemade pasta as extraordinary. The romantic, beautiful ambiance receives frequent commendation, though some diners note the premium pricing reflects the upscale hotel setting and sophisticated preparation.
Location: Located at Avenida Fontes Pereira de Melo 8, 1069-310
Website: www.allora.pt
Limoncello
Limoncello offers traditional Italian cuisine in a mid-range setting, featuring pizza, pasta, steaks, and notably homemade desserts. The restaurant combines authentic Italian ingredients like pastas, flours, and cheeses with fresh, organic Portuguese products, while providing diverse vegetarian options.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The menu showcases 'Pizzas Gourmet,' homemade desserts including acclaimed tiramisù, flavourful steaks, and 'delicious and tasty pastas.' The culinary approach emphasizes the fusion of Italian authenticity with local Portuguese freshness, creating distinctive flavour profiles that highlight both traditions.
The Maestros: Chef Vasco brings extensive experience including 14 years in Italy's Ticino canton and a decade developing his Italian food project in Lisbon. The restaurant's name 'Ristorante Limoncello Heritage' reflects the establishment's mission to create memorable dining experiences in a welcoming environment.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: Located centrally, Limoncello maintains an elegant atmosphere. The restaurant aims to provide a pleasant environment for social dining, creating a familial atmosphere where guests feel welcomed and comfortable throughout their experience.
The Public Voice: Guests consistently mention feeling welcomed "like family," with the chef often visiting tables to ensure satisfaction. The fusion of Italian techniques with Portuguese ingredients intrigues food enthusiasts. Despite the intimate setting, diners rarely feel rushed, appreciating the relaxed pace that encourages lingering over meals.
Location: Located at Rua do Norte 61, 1200-284
Website: limoncello.eatbu.com
Valdo Gatti Pizza Bio
Valdo Gatti specializes in handmade organic pizzas with sourdough crusts, operating in the budget to mid-range segment. The establishment emphasizes sustainability through organic ingredients, pesticide-free products, and low-gluten options, combining authentic Italian techniques with health-conscious practices.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: Pizzas feature sourdough crusts made with 100% Italian organic semi-wholewheat flour, natural homemade yeast, and approximately two days of slow rising. Notable offerings include vegan pizzas with plant-based mozzarella and highly praised Lasagna alla Bolognese with exceptional sauce. The menu extends to bruschettas, focaccias, risottos, and vegan panna cotta dessert.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: The Bairro Alto location offers an intimate setting that tends to be very busy, often requiring waits due to its popularity and small size. The atmosphere reflects the neighbourhood's vibrant character while maintaining focus on the organic, artisanal pizza-making process.
The Public Voice: Diners consistently praise the 'delicious,' 'authentic,' and 'best Neapolitan pizza' with 'exceptionally flavourful dough' and 'sweet and balanced sauce.' The excellent vegan options and friendly staff receive frequent commendation, with appreciation for the sustainable approach, though long waits at the popular location remain the primary concern.
Location: Located at Rua do Grémio Lusitano 13, 1200-211
Website: valdogatti.com
Bellalisa Valmor by Fullest
Bellalisa Valmor operates under the motto 'art in Italian gastronomy,' specializing in authentic Italian cuisine in a mid-range setting. The restaurant is particularly known for its very thin crust pizzas and fresh homemade pastas, with weekly chef suggestions ensuring menu variety.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The standout house specialty is 'pasta alla forma,' dramatically finished inside a Grana Padano cheese wheel directly at the customer's table. Antipasti selections include platters with arancini, burrata, and cured meats, plus unique offerings like TRONCHETTO pizza rolls. The extensive pizza menu features varieties from classic Prosciutto cotto e funghi to creative combinations like CHEF GONZALLEZ with mortadela and pesto.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: Features refined Bella Italia themed decor with large, cozy dining rooms in warm brown tones. Natural lighting during the day transitions to intimate half-lighting at night, creating comfortable ambiance. The restaurant includes a terrace for enhanced warm-weather dining experiences.
The Public Voice: Diners consistently describe the experience as 'excellent' with particular praise for the 'romantic atmosphere.' The unique pasta alla forma presentation and authentic flavours receive frequent commendation, making it popular for couples and families seeking quality Italian dining.
Location: Located at Avenida Visconde Valmor 65A, 1050-239
Website: www.fullest.pt/en/espacos/bellalisa-valmor
Caja Pasta Fresca
This budget-friendly establishment focuses primarily on fresh, homemade pasta dishes with a customizable concept allowing diners to choose pasta types, sauces, and optional extras for an affordable dining experience.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: Features fresh pasta varieties including stuffed ravioli and homemade tagliatelle with ragu. Popular starters include Parmesan cakes, while super affordable desserts complete the menu. Red Lambrusco wine comes recommended as the perfect pairing.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: Characterized as a 'hole in the wall' with very limited indoor space but outdoor tables. The cozy and authentic atmosphere creates an intimate dining experience in the vibrant Anjos neighbourhood.
The Public Voice: Budget-conscious diners celebrate this hidden gem for delivering restaurant-quality fresh pasta at takeaway prices.The Parmesan cakes, desserts, and cozy authentic atmosphere receive frequent commendation, though the very limited space makes reservations advisable.
Location: Located in Anjos, Lisbon
M'arrecreo Pizzeria
This mid-range establishment specializes in authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with rapid 90-second cooking in a 480°C oven. Beyond pizzas, the comprehensive menu includes antipasti, salads, and traditional Italian desserts, all adhering to strict Neapolitan traditions.
Signature Flavors & Menu Highlights: The extensive pizza menu features traditional options like Margherita and Diavola alongside unique creations such as Mortazza with stracciatella and pistachio pesto, and M'arrecreo with spicy ventricina and 'nduja. Antipasti include Tagliere Nordico and Il Pugliese with burrata, while desserts showcase Tiramisù and Cannoli Sicilian.
Atmosphere & Aesthetic: Features low lighting, warm wood, and an open kitchen where diners can observe the pizza-making process. The interior evokes authentic Italian eatery ambiance despite its unique location in Bairro Alto.
The Public Voice: Consistently praised for 'delicious pizzas,' 'perfect crust,' and 'fresh ingredients' with friendly staff. Many consider it the 'Best Pizza in Lisbon,' though some note the dining area can be quite noisy. The restaurant maintains official association with Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, confirming its authentic Neapolitan credentials.
Location: Located at Rua de São Pedro de Alcântara 35, 1200-146
Website: www.marrecreo.com
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If you've found our content valuable, we'd welcome your support.
The digital publishing landscape has evolved significantly. As a small independent publisher, we face growing challenges. Search engines increasingly favour paid content over organic results, while AI-generated content often reproduces original work without attribution.
To support our work, please consider bookmarking this page (press Ctrl + D) for quick access. If you find an article helpful, we'd be grateful if you'd share it with friends on social media.
For specific questions, please see our Reddit community at r/LisbonPortugalTravel.
Should you notice any outdated or incorrect information, please contact us at [email protected]
Thank you for helping us continue to provide valuable content in an increasingly challenging digital environment.