Taste trails: 10 unmissable Iberian eateries you must experience

If you’re a fan of delicious food and beautiful scenery, Iberia is calling your name! Stretching across Spain and Portugal, this sunny, culturally rich region is brimming with culinary gems, from rustic taverns to chic, modern restaurants. To help you plan the ultimate Iberian food adventure, we’ve put together a list of 10 spots we think you’ll absolutely love.

Planning your trip?
•••
Hotels, I use Agoda
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
Insurance: Cover-More
SIM Cards: Simify

I register as an affiliate for anything I use and recommend. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means if you click these links and make a purchase I may earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you, and in some cases, these links may even unlock savings or give you bonuses I’ve negotiated. You can find out more about this here and here.

---

1. Tasca da Esquina, Lisbon, Portugal

Tucked away in Lisbon, Tasca da Esquina is where Portuguese tradition meets creative flair. Chef Vítor Sobral brings Portugal’s rich culinary heritage to life with dishes like tender octopus and crispy salted cod fritters, each bite bursting with locally sourced flavours. The ambience is elegant yet unpretentious, offering a genuine taste of Lisbon’s charm. And if you’re up for more coastal treasures, catch a train from Lisbon to Faro. Known for its sea-faring past, Faro is home to some of Portugal’s finest seafood—perfect for continuing your culinary adventure along the Algarve.

2. El Xampanyet, Barcelona, Spain

Nestled near the Picasso Museum in Barcelona’s El Born district, El Xampanyet transports you to an earlier time. This family-run cava bar is brimming with warmth and character, complete with tiled walls and an energetic vibe. Here, you’ll find tapas done right: jamón ibérico, anchovies, tortilla, and the famous montaditos (small open sandwiches). Paired with a glass of their house cava, it’s a quintessential Catalonian experience that’s simply unforgettable.

3. Cervejaria Ramiro, Lisbon, Portugal

A must for seafood lovers, Cervejaria Ramiro is always buzzing with locals and tourists alike. This no-fuss Lisbon eatery is all about quality, offering an array of fresh shellfish, including garlic shrimp and tiger prawns cooked to perfection. For a fun twist, end your meal with the prego steak sandwich—a surprising but delicious tradition here that caps off the seafood feast with a hearty bite.

4. Taberna da Rua das Flores, Lisbon, Portugal

A charming spot in Lisbon’s Chiado district, Taberna da Rua das Flores puts a fresh spin on Portuguese tapas. This cozy little restaurant serves up creative small plates perfect for sharing, with a seasonal menu that might feature anything from petiscos to squid with coriander rice. It’s no secret, so expect a line—but it’s well worth the wait.

5. Casa Lucio, Madrid, Spain

Madrid’s Casa Lucio is where you’ll find the famous huevos rotos: fried eggs over crispy potatoes. This dish is a true comfort, served in a cozy, welcoming setting in La Latina. Whether you opt for huevos or one of their classic stews, each plate offers a taste of Spain’s traditional cuisine with simple but deeply satisfying flavors. It’s easy to see why Casa Lucio has remained an icon in the Madrid food scene for years.

6. Quimet y Quimet, Barcelona, Spain

A swift Madrid to Barcelona train ride through the heart of the Spanish countryside will bring you to Quimet y Quimet. This place is known for its montaditos, famous bite-sized sandwiches piled high with toppings like smoked salmon and pâté. It’s standing-room only, and the pace is fast, but the food is extraordinary. Pair it with a glass of vermouth, and you’ve got a delicious snack to fuel your day in the city.

7. Restaurante Ponto Final, Almada, Portugal

For a meal with an unforgettable view, head across the river from Lisbon to Almada’s Restaurante Ponto Final. Perched on the waterfront, this spot offers sweeping views of Lisbon and the 25 de Abril Bridge. Order some grilled sardines or octopus salad, and enjoy the sunset over the city—it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

8. Asador Etxebarri, Axpe, Spain

In Spain’s Basque Country, Asador Etxebarri is the place for wood-fired cuisine. Chef Victor Arguinzoniz brings ingredients to life with expert grilling, featuring dishes like prawns, chorizo, and rib-eye steak that showcase the richness of Basque culinary traditions. Dining here is a true celebration of rustic flavors, with a level of refinement that leaves a lasting impression.

9. A Casa do Porco, São Paulo, Brazil (Honourable Mention)

While across the Atlantic in Brazil, A Casa do Porco has strong Iberian roots. Chef Jefferson Rueda’s restaurant is a paradise for pork lovers, offering a menu that highlights slow-cooked whole pig and other cuts prepared with Iberian flair. This spot is a must for those inspired by Spanish cuisine, merging tradition with modern, inventive touches.

10. Botin, Madrid, Spain

No Iberian food trail would be complete without Botin, the world’s oldest restaurant. Located in Madrid, it’s famed for its cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), which is cooked to perfection in a centuries-old wood-fired oven. Dining here is a step back in time, offering not just a meal, but a slice of Spanish history and culture.

---

---