Tascas are the heart of Portuguese cuisine. They’re the lifeblood. They’re the no fuss, local joint, people watching, grandma’s cooking type of place. You can’t leave Portugal without going to at least one tasca for lunch, ok? And I’ve made it easier for you because these are the best: Btw, order a plate of the day. Don’t ask the waiter what’s best on the menu because it’s all good. Maybe the dish will be out of your comfort zone but isn’t that what traveling is all about? * A plate of the day (Prato do dia) usually comes with a main course, dessert, and coffee ** Bring cash with you just in case they don’t take card! Bom apetite!

Portugal boasts some of the best wine in the world with around 250 native grape varieties, so it’s no wonder there’s a never ending supply of producers and sellers. Here’s a curated list of where to get the best red, white, rosé, natty, orange, clarete, or pet nat in the city: *as she sips her Dão Encruzado vinho 🍇 (If you found my list to be educational, I am accepting tips as well 😌)

What is Fado music? 🪕🇵🇹 Fado was born in Lisbon in the 19th century during the urban revival where many people would meet in taverns, cafes, and even brothels (mostly in Bairro Alto or Mouraria) to sing about the ups and downs of life while invoking a sense of longing/nostalgia for a person, place, or moment. Fado has changed throughout the years depending on the location (mostly Lisbon or Coimbra) but it’s traditionally sung by a fadista, accompanied by a Portuguese guitar (which has 6 orders of 2 strings) and a viola. The music still exists today and was nominated by UNESCO as a Intangible Heritage of Humankind in 2011. So, here’s a short of list of where to hear Fado music in Lisbon: Highly recommend RESERVING a table for dinner in advance! Most of the time you have dinner + there’s a wonderful fadista to accompany the meal! Enjoy :)