Lisbon: Tasting Food Menu Experience

Experiencing Lisbon’s culinary scene can be a highlight of any trip, and this tasting menu at Taverna das Marias promises an authentic, flavorful window into Portugal’s gastronomic traditions. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal an experience that’s both satisfying and well-rounded.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the carefully curated menu focuses on authentic local flavors, highlighting Portugal’s renowned cheeses, cured meats, and seafood. Second, the inclusion of paired drink options, from local wines to craft beers, elevates the tasting. Lastly, the casual yet intimate setting offers an authentic taste of Lisbon’s culinary heritage without feeling overly touristy.

One potential drawback? It’s a one-day experience, meaning timing is key — check availability to find a start time that suits your plans. Also, drinks are not included in the base price, so budget for optional wine or beer tastings if you want to enhance the experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to explore Portugal’s flavors without committing to a full-blown food crawl or cooking class. It’s suited for those who appreciate high-quality local ingredients and enjoy pairing food with drinks. If you’re a foodie looking for a relaxed yet immersive taste of Lisbon’s culinary soul, this experience will likely delight.

Good To Know

• Authentic Portuguese flavors in a curated tasting menu.
• Flexible drink options including wine, fortified wine, and craft beer.
• Intimate setting at Taverna das Marias, right by the Tejo River.
• Affordable price point at $35 per person, offering great value.
• One-day activity with flexible start times, so check availability.
• Includes a variety of dishes from cheeses to seafood and pork.
• Not suitable for those with food allergies; check in advance.
• Easy booking process with free cancellation up to 24 hours.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Lisbon Food Tasting Experience

When you arrive at Taverna das Marias, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a promise of authentic flavors. Located right in front of the Tejo River, the setting offers both a relaxing atmosphere and stunning views that set the perfect backdrop for your taste adventure. The tour’s design revolves around a carefully curated menu, which is a highlight for many reviewers who praise its authenticity and thoughtful presentation.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Sample

The experience begins with olives and lupin beans, seasoned just right to awaken your palate. These are simple but essential components of Portuguese dining, setting the tone for what’s to come. Next, you’ll enjoy a fresh sardine pâté on cornbread toast, topped with roasted peppers — a true taste of Lisbon’s love for sardines, which are a staple of Portuguese cuisine.

As you progress, you’ll be served a premium selection of Portugal’s finest cheeses and cured meats. These are likely local varieties, providing insight into Portugal’s cheese-making and curing traditions. One reviewer pointed out that the cheese and charcuterie are of high quality, making it a real treat for those who love a good cheese platter.

The meal continues with baked potatoes with a special sauce, pickles, olives, and herbs, which add crunch and flavor complexity. There’s also a cod fish, chickpea, and tomato salad that showcases Portugal’s seafood prowess and the use of fresh, local ingredients.

Finally, the star of the show: pork with migas, gremolata, and watercress with orange. The pork terrine is described as delicious, with one reviewer noting it as a standout dish, full of rich flavors balanced by fresh herbs and citrus.

Drink Pairings and Enhancements

While drinks are not included in the base package, Taverna das Marias offers several options to elevate your tasting experience. For €18, you can opt for a wine experience with four types of local wines, a fortified wine experience with three types, or five local craft beers. According to reviews, these pairings are well-chosen, complementing each dish perfectly and adding another layer of enjoyment.

Group Size, Duration, and Practicalities

The experience is designed for small groups, allowing for a more intimate and personalized atmosphere. It lasts for a single day, with starting times subject to availability, so it’s best to plan ahead. The tour includes a friendly host or guide who speaks multiple languages — Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish — ensuring clear communication.

You’ll need to send a message with your arrival time so they can prepare everything for your welcome. Cancellation is flexible — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — and you pay later, making it convenient for flexible travel plans.

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Authenticity and Value

At just $35 per person, this tasting menu offers excellent value. The focus on authentic ingredients, paired with the relaxed setting, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Lisbon itinerary. On top of that, reviewers are impressed by the quality and authenticity of the dishes, with many mentioning that the food exceeded expectations for the price.

What We Loved and Considerations

One of the best aspects is the quality of the food — each dish is crafted to showcase Portugal’s culinary heritage. The pairing options allow you to customize and deepen your tasting, whether you prefer wine, fortified wine, or craft beer. The location by the river adds a lovely ambiance, making the experience more memorable.

However, some may find the drinks not included a slight inconvenience if they want a full pairing experience. Also, those with food allergies should check in advance, as the menu is curated around traditional ingredients.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits food lovers eager to taste real Portuguese dishes without the formality of a full restaurant meal. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, immersive culinary adventure. If you’re interested in learning about Portugal’s traditional ingredients and enjoying a range of flavors in a cozy setting, this tasting menu will hit the spot.

The Sum Up

This Lisbon tasting experience offers a thoughtful, authentic glimpse into Portugal’s culinary roots. For $35, you gain access to a carefully curated menu featuring classic dishes like sardines, cheeses, and pork terrine, complemented by optional drink pairings that enhance the flavors. The intimate setting by the river amplifies the enjoyment of this truly local experience.

Perfect for foodies, culture enthusiasts, or travelers seeking a relaxed, delicious introduction to Lisbon’s food scene, this experience balances quality and affordability beautifully. It’s a chance to savor Portugal’s culinary soul in a friendly atmosphere, making it a worthy addition to your Lisbon itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the tasting menu?
The menu includes olives and lupin beans, sardines, cheese and cured meats, Portuguese potatoes, a cod salad, and pork with migas. Drinks are not included, but you can add wine, fortified wine, or craft beer for an extra charge.

How long does the experience last?
The activity is designed for a single day, with flexible start times — check availability to select a time that works best for you.

Is there a preferred language for the experience?
The host or greeter speaks Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and a friendly atmosphere.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for your travel plans.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included but available for purchase. Options include wines, fortified wines, and craft beers, each costing around €18.

Is this experience suitable for people with food allergies?
It’s not suitable for those with food allergies, so it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Taverna das Marias, right in front of the Tejo River, and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Is there a group size limit?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest small groups, fostering a more personalized experience.

This tasting experience at Taverna das Marias is a fantastic way to enjoy genuine Portuguese flavors in a relaxed, authentic setting. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply curious about Lisbon’s culinary traditions, it’s a delightful way to spend part of your visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: