Portugal is a food lover’s paradise, but dining in tourist hotspots can quickly drain your wallet. Fear not! With these locally approved, unconventional hacks, you’ll indulge in authentic flavors for a fraction of the price. Let’s dive in!
1. Avoid Restaurants with English-Speaking Signage
Skip the tourist traps and eat where the locals go.
If a restaurant’s menu is plastered in English and boasts “traditional Portuguese cuisine” in bold letters, keep walking. These spots often inflate prices by up to 40% compared to authentic tascas (taverns) frequented by locals. Instead, look for:
Portuguese-only menus (or minimal English).
Handwritten chalkboard specials (pratos do dia).
Crowds of locals chatting over lunch.
Pro Tip: Use Google Translate’s camera feature to decode menus. For hidden gems, explore neighborhoods like Lisbon’s Graça or Porto’s Bonfim. Best Neighborhoods to Explore in Portugal
2. Feast at Pingo Doce Supermarket Cafeterias
Yes, really—this grocery chain is a budget lifesaver.
Locals know Pingo Doce isn’t just for groceries—their cafeterias serve hearty, affordable meals. Grab:
€5 roast chicken with fries (feeds two!).
Freshly grilled bacalhau (salted cod) for under €6.
Pastries like pastel de nata (custard tart) for €1.
Perfect for picnics or quick lunches, these cafeterias are in nearly every town. Bonus: Stock up on local cheeses, olives, and wine for DIY charcuterie nights.
3. Master the Art of Ordering “Prato do Dia”
The daily special is your wallet’s best friend.
Most tascas offer a €7–10 prato do dia (dish of the day), which includes soup, a main (like feijoada or grilled fish), and sometimes dessert. To avoid awkwardness:
Order it early: These dishes are prepped in advance and run out by mid-afternoon.
Skip substitutions: Busy kitchens prioritize quick service, so stick to the daily special.
4. Hunt for BOGO Deals on Glovo & Bolt Food
Delivery apps = secret weapon for discounts.
Portugal’s food delivery apps (Glovo and Bolt Food) aren’t just for lazy nights—they’re packed with buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals and free delivery promos. For example:
€10 for two Francesinha sandwiches (Porto’s iconic dish).
50% off sushi or pizza during off-peak hours.
Pro Tip: Filter apps by “promotions” and check late-night slots for unbeatable bargains.
5. Use Public Transport to Find Hidden Eateries
Venture beyond tourist zones for authentic, cheap meals.
Tourist hubs like Lisbon’s Alfama or Porto’s Ribeira are charming but pricey. Hop on a €2 train or bus to nearby areas for better deals:
Amadora (Lisbon): Family-run spots serving arroz de pato (duck rice) for €8.
Vila Nova de Gaia (Porto): Riverside tascas with €5 petiscos (tapas).
Setúbal: Seafood shacks dishing €12 choco frito (fried cuttlefish).
Final Thoughts
Portugal’s culinary scene doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By eating like a local, leveraging delivery apps, and exploring beyond the obvious, you’ll savor every bite without guilt. Ready to plan your trip? Explore more tips on Portugal Travel Now for guides on hidden beaches, affordable stays, and cultural gems!
