Traditional Tascas in Lisbon

Tascas are Portugal’s no-frills neighborhood taverns. They’re cozy, family-run restaurants where traditional dishes, local wine, and the rhythms of everyday Lisbon life come together. Tascas are deeply rooted in the city’s history. After the 1755 earthquake, fire and tsunami, which destroyed much of Lisbon. In order to rebuild, waves of laborers came to the city. The laborers who sold charcoal, known as carvoeiros, began to sell wine and simple, but authentic Portuguese dishes. These shops would later become Lisbon’s famous tascas, offering affordable food and fostering a sense of community that has continued for centuries.

The menu at a traditional tasca is a celebration of Portuguese comfort food. Petiscos comes from the French expression “petit chose”, meaning “little thing.” In Portugal, petiscos are small shared dishes, similar to tapas, that are meant to be enjoyed slowly, with drinks, conversation, and good company. Petiscos are more than just food, they are a social ritual: gathering around the table, tasting different flavors, and sharing the moment together.

Some popular pesticos are pastéis de bacalhau (salt‑cod fritters), croquetes, and rissóis, while mains often include bacalhau stews, grilled sardines, bifanas, or cozido à portuguesa and a few of our favorite tascas can be found in this article by Travel + Leisure and this guide to the best tascas in Lisbon by Lisboa Secreta.