5 Best Food Markets in Lisbon

When you think of Lisbon, food markets likely don’t initially come to mind. While the Portuguese capital’s selection of markets has dwindled over the years, they remain some of the top places for foodies hoping to feast on local food like pasteis de nata and bacalhau.

All it took was one visit to the City of Light to inspire me to start my Lisbon food tours. If you’re a fellow street food fanatic like myself, you won’t want to miss these sensational food markets during your next visit.

Time Out Market

Photo credit: Time Out Market

This much-loved Lisbon food market started as the Mercado da Ribeira in the 19th century. Fast forward to 2014, and this historic marketplace in Cais do Sodré is now known as the Time Out Market.

Lying along the Tagus River and a quick stroll from the elegant Chiado neighborhood, the Time Out Market has become a must-visit spot in not just Lisbon, but all of Europe. Every time I swing by, I’m taken aback by the sheer size of this vibrant warehouse-style food court.

Portuguese specialties, all-American fare, and Asian fusion creations are just some of the foods I’ve sampled here. Most recently, though, I’ve been hitting up the Croqueteria to feast on some of their beef and pork-filled croquettes.

These densely packed, meaty masterpieces are sublime. Not only is the juicy beef and savory pork teamed with umami onions and nutty celeriac, but it’s coated in crunchy, golden brown breadcrumbs.

Time Out Market (€€) – Av. 24 de Julho 49, 1200-479 Lisboa, Portugal – Open every day from 10:00 am to 12:00 am

Mercado de Arroios

Photo credit: Mercado de Arroios

Mercado de Arroios near Alto do Pina is among the most low-key, locally-loved Lisbon food markets on this list.

As popular as it is, it’s a much more casual affair than at the more widely-known markets. When I ventured out here the last time I was in the city, I spent hours getting lost in the food stalls lining the circular-shaped walkways.

I initially thought this market was a hub for fresh fruit, veggies, and meats. While this is somewhat true, depending on what part you’re in, it also has a selection of on-site eateries. After browsing the endless rows of fresh produce, I pulled up a chair at Mezze.

Mezze is a Middle Eastern restaurant that blends Syrian and Lebanese flavors. It is run almost exclusively by Syrian refugees. Let me tell you, the creamy, smokey baba ganoush was some of the finest I’ve ever tasted!

Mercado de Arroios (€) – R. Ângela Pinto 40D, 1900-221 Lisboa, Portugal – Open every Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm, closed every Sunday

Mercado de Campo de Ourique

Photo credit: Mercado de Campo de Ourique

While the likes of Alfama and Bairro Alto get most of the glory, the quieter, northern neighborhoods often have the best markets. This is undoubtedly true for Campo de Ourique, which is home to the Mercado de Campo de Ourique.

There’s a little bit of everything here, from old-school food stands and stalls selling handicrafts to contemporary corners serving homemade grub. Despite its size and popularity, it’s held onto its local vibe.

For the best food, make your way over to the pastel de nata stall and dig into some of these delectable custard tarts. While I was here, I also picked up a piping hot espresso.

The bitter, fruity notes from the coffee provided the perfect contrast to the tart’s rich, sweet custard and crispy pastry.

Mercado de Campo de Ourique (€) – R. Coelho da Rocha 104, 1350-075 Lisboa, Portugal – Open every Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am to 1:00 am

Mercado 31 de Janeiro

Photo credit: Mercado 31 de Janeiro

Venture slightly out of the city center, and you’ll uncover the Mercado 31 de Janeiro. Situated in the Arroios district, this is a top-tier but massively underrated food market in Lisbon.

I came to this lively spot a few years back when I was visiting Lisbon with some friends on a wider European tour. Even though I wasn’t expecting to make too many purchases, I ended up leaving with handfuls of dried fruits, fresh cheeses, and seasonal fruits!

Out of everything I purchased, I was most impressed by the goods I picked up at the bakery. The friendly staff ran through the various breads on offer, and I picked up a loaf of sourdough.

Tangy, soft, and delicious, this bread went down a treat with the salty and buttery Queijo de Azeitão cheese I purchased.

Mercado 31 de Janeiro (€) – Rua Engenheiro Vieira da Silva, Praça Duque de Saldanha, 1050-094 Lisboa, Portugal – Closed every Monday and Sunday, open every Tuesday to Saturday from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm

Mercado de Algés

Photo credit: Mercado de Algés

Mercado de Algés isn’t your traditional market, but if you’re ambling around the Belém neighborhood, this is a great place to stop by for either international or Portuguese cuisine.

Open, spacious, and filled with natural light, this modern Lisbon food market has been transformed over the years. Inside, I spotted a mix of fresh food stands alongside restaurants preparing homemade dishes.

The line-up of grilled meats, fish, and bifana sandwiches left me feeling a little hungry, so I ordered some garlic prawns from the seafood stall near the seating area.

I was served up a sizeable portion of mild-flavored prawns, which had a gorgeous, tender consistency. A pool of punchy garlic oil surrounded the prawns, which was made even tastier with the addition of refreshing lemon and clean, peppery parsley.

Mercado de Algés (€€) – R. Dr. Manuel de Arriaga, 1495-037 Algés, Portugal – Open every Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am and every Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 2:00 am

Conclusion

I’m as fond of an occasional visit to upmarket or Michelin-star eateries as anyone, but for nourishing comfort food, there’s nothing like a visit to one of Lisbon’s food markets. Whether you’re craving some pastéis de nata or classic bacalhau, you’re sure to find it at one of these food stalls.