Peri Peri Chicken Lisbon: 7 Most famous spots to try it
As a passionate chicken lover, I’ve embarked on a spicy quest to find the best peri peri 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.
Join me as I take you through six famous places where you can savor the most mouthwatering grilled chicken in Lisbon.
A bit of History…
But before we embark 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, 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. Piri piri chicken quickly became popular throughout Portugal, with Lisbon emerging as a hotspot for this flavorful dish.
Now, let’s explore seven famous places where you can savor the most mouthwatering piri piri grilled chicken 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.
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!
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 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!
4.- A Valenciana – Where Tradition Meets Flavor
A Valenciana, located in the charming Principe Real district, has been a go-to spot for 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.
5.- Café Buenos Aires – An Unexpected Delight
Don’t let the name fool you – Café Buenos Aires in Cais do Sodré serves up some of the most delicious piri piri chicken in town. This Argentine-Portuguese fusion restaurant offers a unique take on the classic dish. Their chicken is marinated in a blend of Portuguese and South American spices before being grilled to crispy perfection. The result? A harmonious explosion of flavors that left me craving more.
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.
7.- Casa da India – A Tasca Treasure
As you step into Casa da India, you will immediately 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.
Bonus
I couldn’t resist sharing two additional gems just outside the city limits. These spots are well worth the short trip or if you are staying around the area.
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, a must try.
Segredos Na Grelha take away is another Grilled Chicken gem located in Oeiras 20 minutes outside Lisbon city center, specifically in 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.
