When the Portuguese navigators opened the sea lanes to previously unknown lands, they also opened the way for the creation of unique foods that blend Indian, Far Eastern, and African cuisine with more traditional European fare. Portugal’s version of  bouillabaisse, made with onions, fresh tomatoes, potatoes, olive oil, and sweet paprika. Pudim flam is a common caramel custard desert.

Casa da Comida (Lisbon)

Roaring fires remove the damp chill from the air on foggy evenings in an ambiance that is bracing and healthful. The Portuguese-French cuisine is preferred by many over any other restaurant in Lisbon.

Casa Velha (Quinta do Lago near Almancil)

On a rocky hilltop above the modern resort of Quinta do lago, this restaurant occupies a century-old farmhouse. Its sophisticated cuisine derives from preparations of upscale French and Portuguese recipes.

Conventual (Lisbon)

Inside this former convent, you're likely to find the prime minister of Portugal dining with assorted ministers. A collection of panels from antique churches will command your attention, a will the rich but refined cuisine based on the bourgeois traditions of Old Portugal.

Cozinha Velha (Queluz)

During the 1700s, food for the monarchy's most lavish banquets was prepared here. Today, the high-ceilinged kitchens of "Old Kitchen" serve an unusual restaurant whose cuisine reflects the old days of Portuguese royalty. Especially outstanding is a soufle-like codfish (bacalhau espiritual) which takes 45 minutes to prepare. Celebrate its desserts, many of which are based on ancient convent recipes.

Four Seasons (Palacio Hotel, Estoril)

Rich colors and artful accents compliment this tranquil restaurant, a fixture in Estoril since the days when deposed European monarchs assembled here with their entourages. High glamour, old-world service, and impeccably prepared international cuisine are the Four Seasons hallmark

Gambrinus (Lisbon)

One of the hippest, best managed seafood restaurants in Lisbon, this standup bar offers an astonishing array of shellfish. Enjoy a glass of dry white port accompanied by some of the most exotic seafood in the Atlantic.

Hotel La Reserve (Santa Barbara de Nexe)

Possibly the finest dining room on the Algarve, this elegant restaurant serves international cuisine. The staff is familiar with the dining rituals of patrons from virtually everywhere in Europe.

Reijos Restaurant (Cascais)

This unpretentious place is convivial, bustling, and international. Its culinary inspirations are gathered from both sides of the Atlantic. The sophisticated menu features many Portuguese regional dishes alongside American delights such as roast beef, pepper steak, and even baked Virginia ham. A great place for the traveler who pines a little for the pleasures of home.

Restaurante Porto de Santa Maria (Praia do Guincho)

Understated decor highlights this restaurant's bubbling aquarium and sea view. The menu boasts every conceivable kind of shellfish, served in the freshest of combinations.

Tagide (Lisbon)

The ambiance is Old Portugal, with French overtones in the cuisine and decor. The setting is a suitably noble antique manor house overlooking the Tagus. The cuisine represents the city's most refined versions of Portuguese regional dishes, especially fresh fish courses such as scallops of salted cod and baby octopus in red-wine sauce. Compliment your meal with one of 200 or more bottles of Portuguese and French wine from their cellar.