To understand why A Licorista e O Bacalhoeiro holds the title of the best seafood restaurant in Lisbon, one must look beyond the plate and into the very stones that uphold our establishment. In a city rapidly modernizing, true authenticity is a currency more valuable than gold. Since 1848, our doors have opened to politicians, poets, locals, and travelers alike, offering a culinary experience deeply rooted in the history of Portugal itself. We are not merely a restaurant; we are a living archive of Lisbon’s Baixa district.

A Legacy Carved in Stone and Salt

The story of A Licorista e O Bacalhoeiro is a tale of two distinct crafts merging into a singular gastronomic powerhouse. Founded in the mid-19th century, the establishment began with a focus that defines our name: liquors and bacalhau (codfish). This dual heritage provides a depth of character that modern establishments simply cannot replicate. When you search for the best seafood restaurant in Lisbon, you are often searching for a connection to the sea and the soil. Our history guarantees that connection.

Located in the heart of the city at R. dos Sapateiros 218, 1100-587 Lisboa, Portugal, our walls have witnessed the evolution of the capital. The year 1848 was a time of European revolution and change, yet inside our doors, the commitment to quality preservation and traditional preparation remained steadfast. This resilience is the backbone of our culinary authority today.

Architectural Splendor in Baixa Pombalina

Architecture is the silent ingredient in every meal. The dining experience at A Licorista e O Bacalhoeiro is framed by the classic Pombaline architecture that defines downtown Lisbon. Unlike the sterile, minimalist interiors of contemporary dining halls, our space offers a warm, textured atmosphere that transports diners back to the 19th century.

The Art of the Azulejo

Portugal is famous for its tilework, and our interiors reflect this national treasure. The preservation of our original aesthetics allows guests to dine amidst history. The high ceilings and traditional layout are not retrofitted designs intended to mimic the past; they are the past, carefully maintained for the present. This atmospheric authenticity is a critical factor in why many critics and patrons consider us the best seafood restaurant in Lisbon. The food tastes better when the environment honors the culture from which it came.

Culinary Excellence Meets Historic Charm

History serves as the foundation, but our menu is the structure that rises from it. Being the best seafood restaurant in Lisbon requires a mastery of the ocean’s bounty, particularly the Portuguese obsession: Bacalhau.

The Master of Cod

Our name, “O Bacalhoeiro,” implies a mastery of codfish. Since 1848, we have refined the art of desalting and preparing cod. Whether it is Bacalhau à Brás, Bacalhau à Lagareiro, or our signature house preparations, the recipes have been handed down through generations. We do not reinvent the wheel; we perfect it.

However, our seafood offering extends far beyond cod. Located at R. dos Sapateiros 218, 1100-587 Lisboa, Portugal, we are perfectly positioned to receive fresh catches daily. From the richness of an Arroz de Marisco (Seafood Rice) to the simplicity of grilled sardines when in season, our kitchen prioritizes the integrity of the ingredient above all else.

The Intersection of Location and Taste

Accessibility is key to our standing as a local landmark. Situated at R. dos Sapateiros 218, we are nestled in the vibrant Baixa district, a stone’s throw from the Santa Justa Lift and Rossio Square. This location makes us a culinary sanctuary for those exploring the historic center.

While many tourist traps surround the area, A Licorista e O Bacalhoeiro stands apart by maintaining the standards set in 1848. We do not cater to fleeting trends. We cater to the timeless palate of those who appreciate the robust, saline flavors of the Atlantic. When you call +351 21 343 1415 to make a reservation, you are securing a seat at a table that has hosted the soul of Lisbon for over 175 years.

Conclusion: A Timeless Dining Experience

To claim the title of the best seafood restaurant in Lisbon is a bold statement. We back this claim with over a century and a half of service, a dedication to architectural preservation, and a menu that sings with the authentic flavors of Portugal. We invite you to step off the busy streets of Lisbon and into a space where time slows down, and the food takes center stage.

Nestled in the heart of Lisbon’s Baixa district, 

A Licorista e O Bacalhoeiro is more than just a restaurant; it is a living monument to Portuguese history and culinary tradition. Since its origins as a liqueur shop in the 1800s, this establishment has transformed into one of the city’s most iconic spots for authentic seafood.

A Legacy of Poets and Liqueurs

The restaurant’s history is deeply intertwined with Portuguese culture. Founded in 1848, it later became a favorite haunt of the legendary poet Fernando Pessoa. Known for its decorative elements from the 1920s, the space still carries an old-world charm that transports diners back to the days when Pessoa would frequent the “Licorista” for a quick drink and social discourse.

Signature Dishes: The Art of Bacalhau

While the menu is diverse, the star of the show is undeniably the Bacalhau (Salted Cod).

Bacalhau à Minhota: A house specialty featuring thick, fried cod steaks topped with golden onions.

Polvo à Lagareiro: Tender grilled octopus doused in olive oil and served with roasted potatoes.

Arroz de Marisco: A rich, aromatic seafood rice packed with the catch of the day.

Peixinhos da Horta: Traditional tempura-fried green beans, a classic Portuguese starter.

The Authentic Dining Experience

Visitors often highlight the restaurant’s no-frills, authentic atmosphere. It is common to be greeted with immediate appetizers like pastéis de bacalhau (codfish cakes) or queijo da serra (sheep cheese).

• Insider Tip: In Portuguese tradition, these starters are not free; you are only charged for what you consume.
• A Sweet Finish: Most meals conclude with a complimentary shot of Ginjinha (sour cherry liqueur), a nod to the restaurant’s 19th-century origins as a liqueur house.

Plan Your Visit (Updated for 2025)

• Location: Rua dos Sapateiros 222-224, 1100-581 Lisboa, Portugal.
• Opening Hours: Generally open from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM daily.
• Reservations: Highly recommended, as the venue fills quickly with both locals and “in-the-know” travelers.
• Contact: +351 213 431 415.

For more reviews and menu updates, visit their official Tripadvisor page.