If you hear foodie adventure, Lisbon probably isn't at the top of your list. But trust me, this city has some of the most delectable treats that will make your mouth water. Prepare your taste buds for an epic food adventure through Lisbon, where every stop offers a new and delicious surprise! This isn't just about eating—it's about diving headfirst into the heart of Lisbon's food scene, guided by a local host who knows the city like the back of their hand. Get ready to eat like a local through some of my favorite spots and learn a few secrets along the way!

Kick things off at Quiosque de São Paulo, a charming little kiosk where the locals flock for a laid-back lunch. Your host will have snagged a table before the lunch rush so you can sit back and relax. I have to recommend the octopus salad that's as fresh as the ocean breeze, with flavors that dance on your tongue. Then, it's time for the pastéis de bacalhau, Lisbon's beloved codfish cakes. Crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside – these little bites are pure comfort food. Vegetarians, you're in for a treat with "ovos verdes," a deliciously green alternative. And because every meal needs a little snack, you'll munch on lupin beans – salty, savory, and the perfect companion to your drink. This is the kind of spot where locals gather rain or shine, making it the ideal place to start your Lisbon food journey.

Next, you're off to O Trevo, a spot that's as authentically Lisbon as it gets. Here, you'll sink your teeth into a bifana, a traditional Portuguese sandwich that's pure heaven. Think marinated pork, juicy and flavorful, packed into a soft roll. Add a dash of mustard or a splash of piri-piri sauce for an extra kick..

Then, it's time for a little sweet history lesson at Alcoa, a pastry shop that specializes in conventional sweets. These pastries have a story as rich as their flavor, originally made by nuns and monks using leftover egg yolks. You have to try the pampilho, a pastry filled with a creamy egg yolk mixture that's simply divine. As you stroll through Chiado, Lisbon's shopping district, your host will regale you with tales of the area's past and present – and maybe point out a few spots worth checking out later.

To reach your final destination, you'll skip the hills (because who needs that kind of workout on a food experience?) and take Lisbon's iconic elevators instead. Your host knows all the best routes, including a couple of hidden gems that even some locals don't know about. Along the way, stop at Miradouro do Chão do Loureiro for a photo op – the views are unbeatable.

Finally, you'll arrive at Pastelaria de Santo António, where you'll be introduced to what many claim is the best pastel de nata in Lisbon. These little custard tarts are the stuff of legends – flaky, creamy, with just the right amount of caramelization on top. As you savor every bite, your host will give you the lowdown on the pastel de nata versus its more famous cousin, the Pastéis de Belém. While the Pastéis de Belém are steeped in mystery and only available at one place, pastéis de nata can be found all over. But which is better? That's for you to decide!

Throughout this fun and flavor-packed adventure, your local host will keep things lively, sharing insider tips and stories that make Lisbon come alive. I hope this adventure tickles your tastebuds, and remember to tell me all about it!