Best Piri Piri Chicken Lisbon: 7 Most famous spots to try it
🔥 TL;DR: Bonjardim offers the best classic experience, Frangasqueira Nacional is the local favorite, and Casa da India provides the best budget option. All serve authentic charcoal-grilled piri piri chicken under €15.
As a passionate chicken lover, I’ve embarked on a spicy quest to find the best piri piri chicken in Lisbon. With its fiery blend of chili peppers and aromatic spices, this iconic Portuguese dish has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re searching for authentic Portuguese grilled chicken or wondering where to eat piri piri chicken in Lisbon, this comprehensive guide covers the top spots where locals actually eat. From traditional churrasqueiras in the city center to hidden neighborhood gems, I’ll take you through 7 famous places where you can savor the most mouthwatering charcoal-grilled chicken in Lisbon.
Join me as I take you through 7 famous places where you can savor the most mouthwatering grilled chicken in Lisbon.
A Bit of History: Where Does Piri Piri Chicken Come From?
But before we go deep on our spicy culinary journey through Lisbon, let’s delve into the interesting history of piri piri chicken.
This beloved dish has its roots in Portugal’s colonial past, specifically in Mozambique and Angola. The name “piri piri” (also spelled “peri peri”) comes from the Swahili word for “pepper-pepper,” referring to the African bird’s eye chili that gives the dish its signature heat.
Portuguese settlers in Africa encountered these fiery peppers and began incorporating them into their cuisine. They created a sauce by blending the chilies with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and other spices. This sauce was then used to marinate and baste grilled chicken, giving birth to the piri piri chicken we know and love today.
When Portugal’s African colonies gained independence in the 1970s, many Portuguese settlers returned home, bringing with them a taste for this spicy delicacy. Peri peri chicken quickly became popular throughout Portugal, with Lisbon emerging as a hotspot for this flavorful dish. Today, authentic piri piri chicken grilled over charcoal remains one of the most searched Portuguese dishes by both tourists and food enthusiasts.
Now, let’s dig into seven famous places where you can savor the best Piri Piri Chicken in Lisbon.
Quick Comparison: Best Piri Piri Chicken Restaurants in Lisbon
Before we dive into detailed reviews, here’s a quick overview to help you choose:
| Restaurant | Neighborhood | Price Range | Spice Level | Best For | Established |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bonjardim | Restauradores | €10-15 | Medium-Hot | First-timers & classic experience | 1974 |
| O Churrasco | Baixa | €10-15 | Customizable | Spice lovers & variety | 1950s |
| Frangasqueira Nacional | Alvalade | €8-12 | Hot | Local authentic experience | 1960s |
| A Valenciana | Principe Real | €12-16 | Medium | Atmosphere & tradition | 1974 |
| Churrasqueira do Marquês | Ajuda | €10-14 | Medium | Traditional charcoal grilling | 1980s |
| O Pitéu da Graça | Graça | €11-15 | Medium-Hot | City views & ambiance | 1990s |
| Casa da India | Central Lisbon | €7-12 | Mild-Medium | Budget-friendly tasca experience | 1970s |
Top 7 Best Piri Piri Chicken Spots in Lisbon
1.- Bonjardim – The Time-Honored Classic
Tucked away in a small alley near Restauradores Square, Bonjardim has been serving some of the best piri piri chicken in Lisbon since 1974. As soon as you approach, the enticing aroma of grilled chicken fills the air. The moment I bit into their perfectly charred, succulent chicken, I knew why this place is a local legend. The secret lies in their homemade piri piri sauce – a perfect balance of heat and flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Travessa de Santo Antão 10-12, 1150-293 Lisboa
- Neighborhood: Restauradores (Historic Center)
- Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday, 12:00-23:00
- Average Price: €10-15 per person (half chicken with fries and salad)
- How to Get There: Metro Restauradores (Blue Line), 2-minute walk
- Reservations: Walk-ins accepted, but recommended to book on weekends
- Payment: Cash and cards accepted
⭐ What Makes It Special
🍗 Signature Style: Traditional charcoal grilling with 50-year-old recipe 🌶️ Spice Level: Medium-hot, perfect for first-timers 🏆 Why Locals Love It: Consistently excellent quality and authentic preparation
2.- O Churrasco – A Grilled Chicken Paradise
Next on our journey is O Churrasco, a bustling eatery in the heart of Baixa. Here, the art of grilling chicken has been perfected over decades. The chicken is marinated overnight in a blend of secret spices, resulting in tender meat that falls off the bone. What sets O Churrasco apart is their range of piri piri sauces, from mild to eye-wateringly hot. I found myself alternating between savoring the chicken’s natural flavors and indulging in their spiciest sauce – a true rollercoaster for the taste buds!
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Rua do Barão 26-28, 1100-087 Lisboa
- Neighborhood: Baixa-Chiado
- Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 12:00-22:30 (Closed Sundays)
- Average Price: €10-15 per person
- How to Get There: Metro Baixa-Chiado (Blue/Green Lines), 5-minute walk
- Reservations: Recommended for dinner
- Payment: Cash and cards accepted
⭐ What Makes It Special
🍗 Signature Style: Overnight marination with customizable spice levels 🌶️ Spice Level: Choose from mild to extremely hot 🏆 Why Locals Love It: Flexibility in spice and generous portions
3.- Frangasqueira Nacional – The Hidden Gem
Venturing off the tourist trail, I discovered Frangasqueira Nacional in the Alvalade neighborhood. This unassuming takeaway joint might not look like much, but it serves some of the best grilled piri piri chicken in Lisbon. The chicken here is cooked to perfection, with crispy skin and juicy meat. Their piri piri sauce is a closely guarded family recipe, offering a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from the rest. Be prepared to wait in line – the locals know how good it is!
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Avenida dos Estados Unidos da América 123, 1700-176 Lisboa
- Neighborhood: Alvalade (Residential area)
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:30-22:00 (Closed Mondays)
- Average Price: €8-12 per person (best value in the city)
- How to Get There: Metro Alvalade (Green Line), 3-minute walk
- Reservations: Takeaway only, no reservations needed
- Payment: Cash preferred, cards accepted
⭐ What Makes It Special
🍗 Signature Style: Family recipe passed down through generations 🌶️ Spice Level: Authentically hot – this is where locals go for real heat 🏆 Why Locals Love It: Unbeatable prices and zero tourist markup
4.- A Valenciana – Where Tradition Meets Flavor
A Valenciana, located in the charming Principe Real district, has been a go-to spot for best piri piri chicken since 1974. As I stepped inside, the retro decor transported me back in time. But it’s the chicken that truly steals the show. Grilled over charcoal, each piece is infused with a smoky flavor that complements the zesty piri piri sauce perfectly. The generous portions and friendly service make this place a must-visit for any chicken enthusiast.
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Avenida da República 31, 1050-185 Lisboa
- Neighborhood: Saldanha/Picoas (Near Praça do Chile)
- Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 12:00-23:00 (Closed Sundays)
- Average Price: €12-16 per person
- How to Get There: Metro Picoas (Yellow Line), 5-minute walk
- Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for groups
- Payment: Cash and cards accepted
⭐ What Makes It Special
🍗 Signature Style: Charcoal grilling with vintage preparation methods 🌶️ Spice Level: Medium, family-friendly 🏆 Why Locals Love It: Nostalgic ambiance and consistent quality since the 70s
5. Churrasqueira do Marquês – The Neighborhood Champion
If you want real Portuguese grilled chicken done right, Churrasqueira do Marquês in Ajuda should be on your list. Locals keep going back and for good reason. Their frango assado feito no carvão (charcoal-grilled chicken) is consistently praised for being juicy inside, with a crisp, flavorful skin and generous portions. This is where Lisbon families come for Sunday lunch.
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Rua do Quelhas 18, 1200-781 Lisboa
- Neighborhood: Ajuda (Near Belém area)
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-22:00 (Closed Mondays)
- Average Price: €10-14 per person
- How to Get There: Tram 15E to Belém, then 10-minute walk; or Bus 714, 727, 732
- Reservations: Walk-ins usually okay, book ahead for Sunday lunch
- Payment: Cash and cards accepted
⭐ What Makes It Special
🍗 Signature Style: Traditional neighborhood churrasqueira, family-run 🌶️ Spice Level: Medium, crowd-pleasing 🏆 Why Locals Love It: Authentic family atmosphere and consistent quality
6.- O Pitéu da Graça – A Neighborhood Favorite
Last but certainly not least is O Pitéu da Graça, nestled in the picturesque Graça neighborhood. This family-run restaurant has been serving loyal customers for generations. As I savored their piri piri chicken, I understood why. The meat is incredibly tender, and the piri piri sauce has just the right amount of kick. What’s more, the warm atmosphere and stunning views of the city make dining here a truly memorable experience.
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Largo da Graça 96, 1170-165 Lisboa
- Neighborhood: Graça (Historic hilltop neighborhood)
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-22:30 (Closed Mondays)
- Average Price: €11-15 per person
- How to Get There: Tram 28E to Graça, or Metro Martim Moniz + 15-minute walk uphill
- Reservations: Strongly recommended for terrace seating
- Payment: Cash and cards accepted
⭐ What Makes It Special
🍗 Signature Style: Family recipes with spectacular city views 🌶️ Spice Level: Medium-hot, adjustable on request 🏆 Why Locals Love It: Combines excellent food with one of Lisbon’s best views
7.- Casa da India – A Tasca Treasure
As you step into Casa da India, you’ll immediately be struck by its authentic, no-frills atmosphere. The place is always buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all drawn by the irresistible aroma of grilling chicken and the promise of a hearty, budget-friendly meal.
The chicken here is a marvel of simplicity and flavor. Grilled to perfection, each piece boasts a crispy, golden-brown skin that gives way to juicy, tender meat underneath. While their piri piri sauce may not be the spiciest in town, it offers a wonderfully balanced flavor that enhances the chicken without overpowering it.
But what truly sets Casa da India apart is its unbeatable combination of quality and value. The service is brisk and efficient, typical of a busy tasca, but always friendly. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself sharing a table with locals, it’s all part of the authentic tasca experience.
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Rua do Loreto 49, 1200-241 Lisboa
- Neighborhood: Chiado (Central Lisbon)
- Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11:30-22:00 (Closed Sundays)
- Average Price: €7-12 per person (best value in central Lisbon)
- How to Get There: Metro Baixa-Chiado (Blue/Green Lines), 3-minute walk
- Reservations: Not accepted – arrive early or expect to wait
- Payment: Cash and cards
⭐ What Makes It Special
🍗 Signature Style: Traditional tasca serving working-class portions 🌶️ Spice Level: Mild-medium, accessible to everyone 🏆 Why Locals Love It: Authentic Portuguese dining culture at unbeatable prices
Bonus: Best Piri Piri Chicken Outside Lisbon City Center
I couldn’t resist sharing two additional gems just outside the city limits. These spots are well worth the short trip, especially if you’re staying in these areas or have a rental car.
Papa Frangos (Aroeira)
About 25 kilometers south of Lisbon, we discovered Papa Frangos in the peaceful Aroeira area while we were staying there on our arrival to the city. This local favorite might be off the typical tourist path, but it’s a pilgrimage site for true piri piri aficionados.
Papa Frangos takes pride in sourcing top-quality, free-range chickens, and it shows in every bite – just like their picanha, which is a must-try.
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Aroeira area, 2820 Charneca da Caparica
- How to Get There: 25km south of Lisbon, car recommended (30-minute drive)
- Average Price: €10-15 per person
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-22:00
- Best For: Beach day combination or staying in Costa da Caparica area
Segredos Na Grelha (Oeiras)
Segredos Na Grelha takeaway is another grilled chicken gem located in Oeiras, 20 minutes outside Lisbon city center, specifically in the Santo Amaro neighbourhood.
The chicken here is marinated in a closely guarded secret blend of spices before being expertly grilled over open flames. The result is nothing short of spectacular – crispy skin giving way to incredibly juicy meat, all infused with a complex, spicy flavor that dances on your palate.
Their homemade piri piri sauce is available in various heat levels, allowing you to customize your meal to your spice preference. Paired with their crispy hand-cut fries, it’s a meal that truly embodies the essence of Portuguese comfort food.
📍 Location & Practical Information
- Full Address: Santo Amaro neighbourhood, Oeiras
- How to Get There: Train from Cais do Sodré to Oeiras (20 minutes), then 10-minute walk
- Average Price: €9-13 per person
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-22:00
- Best For: Takeaway, picnic by the seaside esplanade
How to Get to These Restaurants Using Lisbon’s Public Transport
Most of these piri piri chicken restaurants are easily accessible using Lisbon’s excellent public transportation system. For detailed information on using the metro, trams, and buses to reach these locations, check out our comprehensive Metro de Lisboa guide for tourists.
If you’re planning to visit multiple restaurants on different days, consider getting the Lisboa 7 Colinas card or Viva Viagem card for unlimited travel and better value.
Complete Your Portuguese Food Experience
After indulging in the best piri piri chicken Lisbon has to offer, why not explore more of Portugal’s incredible culinary traditions? Discover 13 Portuguese desserts you absolutely must try, from the famous pastéis de nata to lesser-known regional sweets that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
For more travel inspiration and practical guides about living and traveling in Portugal, explore our comprehensive destination resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Piri Piri Chicken in Lisbon
What is the best piri piri chicken in Lisbon?
Bonjardim is widely considered the best piri piri chicken in Lisbon, serving authentic charcoal-grilled chicken since 1974 near Restauradores Square. Their homemade piri piri sauce and traditional preparation methods have made them a local institution. However, for the most authentic local experience, Frangasqueira Nacional in Alvalade offers exceptional quality at lower prices.
How much does piri piri chicken cost in Lisbon?
Piri piri chicken in Lisbon typically costs between €8-15 per person, including sides like fries and salad. Budget-friendly options like Casa da India and Frangasqueira Nacional charge €7-12, while more established restaurants like A Valenciana may charge €12-16. Half a chicken with sides is the standard portion and usually sufficient for one person.
Where can I find authentic Portuguese piri piri chicken in Lisbon?
Authentic piri piri chicken can be found at traditional churrasqueiras (grilled chicken restaurants) throughout Lisbon. The best neighborhoods for authentic piri piri chicken are Restauradores, Baixa, Alvalade, Graça, and Principe Real. Look for restaurants that grill over charcoal (carvão) and have been family-run for decades.
Is piri piri chicken very spicy?
Piri piri chicken is traditionally spicy due to African bird’s eye chili peppers, but most restaurants in Lisbon offer different spice levels. You can typically choose from mild (suave), medium (médio), hot (picante), or extra hot (muito picante). Restaurants like O Churrasco offer customizable spice levels, making it accessible for those who prefer less heat.
What is the difference between piri piri and peri peri?
There is no difference – “piri piri” and “peri peri” are simply different spellings of the same dish. Both come from the Swahili word for “pepper-pepper.” In Portugal, you’ll most commonly see it spelled “piri piri,” while international chains like Nando’s use “peri peri.” The authentic Portuguese spelling is “piri piri.”
What neighborhoods in Lisbon have the best piri piri chicken restaurants?
The best neighborhoods for piri piri chicken in Lisbon are:
- Restauradores/Baixa: Bonjardim, O Churrasco, Casa da India (central, tourist-friendly)
- Alvalade: Frangasqueira Nacional (local favorite, residential)
- Graça: O Pitéu da Graça (great views, authentic atmosphere)
- Principe Real/Saldanha: A Valenciana (charming, traditional)
- Ajuda: Churrasqueira do Marquês (family-friendly, near Belém)
Can I order piri piri chicken for takeaway in Lisbon?
Yes! Many of the best piri piri chicken restaurants in Lisbon offer takeaway (takeaway is called “para levar” in Portuguese). Frangasqueira Nacional is primarily a takeaway spot, and Casa da India also does excellent takeaway orders. Most restaurants will pack your chicken with fries, rice, and salad in convenient containers. Call ahead to skip the queue during peak hours.
What sides come with piri piri chicken in Lisbon?
Traditional Portuguese piri piri chicken is typically served with french fries (batatas fritas) and salad (salada). Many restaurants also offer rice (arroz), which can be plain or cooked with piri piri sauce. Some establishments, like Bonjardim, include olives and bread as starters. The rice with piri piri sauce is particularly delicious and worth trying.
Is piri piri chicken the same as frango assado?
Not exactly. “Frango assado” simply means “roasted chicken” in Portuguese and can be prepared with various seasonings. Piri piri chicken is a specific type of frango assado that’s marinated and grilled with piri piri chili pepper sauce. All piri piri chicken is frango assado, but not all frango assado is piri piri chicken. Look for “frango piri piri” or “frango na brasa” (grilled chicken) on menus.
Do I need reservations for piri piri chicken restaurants in Lisbon?
For most casual churrasqueiras like Frangasqueira Nacional and Casa da India, reservations aren’t accepted or necessary – they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, restaurants like Bonjardim, A Valenciana, and O Pitéu da Graça accept reservations and they’re recommended for weekend dinners or if you want terrace seating with views.
