About This Spot

Stepping into Bessa Restaurante is like entering a quietly cherished corner of Lisbon where the rhythm slows just enough to savor the sea’s gifts. Nestled on a charming street in the heart of the city, this seafood spot radiates a warm, unpretentious aura that invites you to linger over each course at an easy, unhurried pace. There’s a gentle buzz of conversation, the occasional clink of glasses, and a welcoming smile from the staff that immediately sets the tone for an authentic, heartfelt meal.

The atmosphere carries the subtle intimacy of a place frequented by neighbors and travelers alike — those who come seeking not just food but an experience rooted in the city’s coastal traditions and genuine human connection. It’s casual yet attentive, as if the kitchen and the dining room are in quiet dialogue, careful to bring out the essence of every ingredient without fuss.

On the plate, the ocean’s freshness shines through with dishes that balance tradition and thoughtful seasoning. A tender sea bass or the slightly smoky, melted flavors of lagareiro octopus evoke the nearby waters, while sides like olive-studded garlic bites and vibrant tomato salads complement the meal with bursts of local color. There’s a soft sweetness found in the pastel de nata and creme caramel, simple endings that feel just right after a well-paced meal.

What lingers most is the sense of being genuinely cared for — welcomed not just as a guest but as part of a shared discovery. The friendly greetings at the door, the quiet recommendations over a small glass of cherry wine, and the easy smiles all contribute to a feeling that Bessa Restaurante is a place where food and warmth come together naturally, inviting you back again and again.

What’s Available Here

  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconDelivery
  • IconGreat coffee
  • IconGreat dessert
  • IconGreat wine list
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconAlcohol
  • IconBeer
  • IconCocktails
  • IconCoffee
  • IconLate-night food
  • IconQuick bite
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconSpirits
  • IconWine
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconCatering
  • IconDessert
  • IconTable service
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconQuiet
  • IconGroups
  • IconTourists
  • IconLunch reservations recommended
  • IconDinner reservations recommended
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconNFC mobile payments
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconPaid street parking

Location & Hours

Monday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Tuesday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Wednesday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Thursday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Friday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Guest Reviews

Summer Chen 05 Dec 2025

This is the best meal that we have in Portugal. Today is the 21st day when we travel around Portugal. Food is so great and testy. Not too salty and oily. We do enjoy every dishes. Seafood here are so fresh and tasteful. Workers are so friendly. Recommend to be here again

Rola Abushaban 24 Nov 2025

Delicious food! We had the best pasta bolognese and sea bass plate! Amazed by the flavor and spices! No kidding this by far best pasta I’ve ever had! Excellent service and smiley owner greeting us at the door! Try it if you are in Lisbon

Jinealy Feng 14 Nov 2025

Clams are my favorite! Must try!! Seafood rice is so good too. Codfish lagareiro style is very delicious. Would like to try the tiramisu but they are sold out, cheesecake is too sweet. Def recommends for the food.

perle75nyc 13 Nov 2025

I ordered the salad, clams, fish, and seafood rice. The food itself was fairly decent overall. The rice was cooked softer than the usual local style, and the salad came out last, which felt a bit strange. Still, the meal was above average and generally satisfying.

Christine Yao 25 Oct 2025

Clams are really good!! Grilled whole fish also a must try. Owners are really nice here :) gave us some local cherry wine to try

Rine 24 Oct 2025

We went here as their second restaurant Taverna Alfacina is filly booked. The food is very tasty especially the octopus and the Bacalhau. The staff is amazing and you also get a complimentary shot of cherry wine at the end of your meal. The octopus, Polvo à Lagareiro, is tender and could use a little more seasoning. The other two dishes we ordered (Paella Negra and Bacalhau à Brás) are also nice but could be warmer. The mussels in the paella didn’t taste clean but overall, the dish is okay. Overall enjoyed our stay here due to the staff’s hospitality.

Timothy 12 Oct 2025

Staff are friendly. They explain everything clearly and give details about each dish. The seafood soup has a strong seafood flavour with bits of shrimp and mussels inside. Seafood rice is tasty and well-seasoned. The mussel meat is thick and full of garlic flavour. The codfish is just amazing. It is thick, juicy, and cooked perfectly. A must-try if you enjoy traditional Portuguese cod dishes.

Share Your Experience
Related Listing

Recently Viewed Listing

4.9
7883 Reviews

Mitr Thai Restaurant

37 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036, United States
4.4
1827 Reviews

Yosemite Ranch - Steak, Fish, Bar

1520 E Champlain Dr, Fresno, CA 93720, United States
4.4
299 Reviews

Pho Momma

9555 Folsom Blvd Suite A, Sacramento, CA 95827, United States
4
785 Reviews

Asian Pearl

1309 James Ave, Bedford, IN 47421, United States
4.6
444 Reviews

Turtle Cafe

4 Westbrook Pl, Westbrook, CT 06498, United States
Subscribr Now

Get All Updates & Advance Offers