Portuguese Breakfast – With the Portuguese Pastel de Nata and delicious Portuguese coffee, it’s easy to say that Portugal has some really good traditional Portugal breakfast dishes not to miss. Whether you’re visiting Portugal or just saving for a future visit, we talk about what to eat for a delicious morning treat in Portugal!
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Where to Stay in Portugal
There are cheap hotels available for you at a starting price of €20-25. Hostels with dorms start from €10-15 if you want to travel in Portugal down your accommodation budget. Luxurious hotels in another option for your accommodation in Portugal, the price can range from €90-up.
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What is in a Traditional Portuguese Breakfast – Typical Breakfast in Portugal
A traditional Portuguese breakfast will often consist of a combination of sweet and savory items.
Pastel de Nata
This is a small, flaky pastry filled with a creamy custard made from eggs, sugar, and cinnamon. It’s a staple in Portuguese bakeries and cafes and is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
Pão de Deus
This sweet bread is made with coconut and sugar, giving it a slightly tropical flavor. It’s often toasted and served with butter or jam.
Pão de ló
This traditional sponge cake is light and airy, and is often enjoyed as a sweet snack or dessert.
Bolo de Arroz
This rice cake is made with leftover rice and sweetened with sugar and cinnamon. It’s a staple in Portuguese households and is often served as a snack or dessert.
Bifana
This is a traditional Portuguese sandwich made with marinated pork loin, grilled and served on a roll. It’s typically topped with mustard and served with a side of fries.
Sandes
This is a Portuguese version of a sandwich, and can be made with a variety of fillings, such as ham and cheese, chicken, or steak. It’s typically served on a roll and is a quick and easy breakfast option.
Galão
This is a traditional Portuguese coffee drink made with espresso and frothed/foamed milk. It’s similar to a cappuccino and is often enjoyed with a sweet pastry or snack.
Bica
This is another traditional Portuguese coffee, similar to espresso. It’s a strong and bitter coffee, often enjoyed black or with a small amount of sugar.
Port Wine
Port wine is a sweet, fortified wine that is often served as an aperitif before breakfast in Portugal.
Sumol
This is a popular Portuguese fruit drink that is made with a variety of fruit juices, including orange, passion fruit, and pineapple.
Azeite
Olive oil is a staple of Portuguese cuisine and is often served with bread as a dip for breakfast.
In addition to these items, Portuguese breakfast often includes fresh orange juice, along with a variety of other juices and soft drinks. Overall, a traditional Portuguese breakfast offers a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors, and is a great way to start the day.
What to Add to Your Portuguese breakfast
items that are commonly included in a traditional Portuguese breakfast:
Açorda
A traditional bread soup made with stale bread, garlic, olive oil, and either eggs or fish.
Tostadas
Toast topped with cheese, ham, and eggs.
Queijo da Serra
A type of soft sheep’s cheese that is often served with bread, fruit, and honey.
Chouriço
A spicy Portuguese sausage that is often grilled and served with bread and cheese.
Pastéis de Bacalha
Fried pastry filled with salt cod, onion, and parsley.
Ovos Moles
Soft-boiled eggs served in a bed of thinly sliced bread, topped with a sauce made from egg yolks, sugar, and port wine.
Traditional breakfasts in Portugal by Region
Azores
In the Azores, a traditional breakfast might include the following items: grilled sardines, local cheese, sweet bread, and a cup of tea.
Alentejo
In the Alentejo region, a traditional breakfast might include: fresh bread, olive oil, cheese, ham, and eggs.
Madeira
In Madeira, a traditional breakfast might include: bolo do caco (a type of sweet bread), cheeses, and local fruit juices.
Minho
In the Minho region, a traditional breakfast might include: potatoes, eggs, and local sausage, served with a side of cornbread.
Each region of Portugal has its own unique culinary traditions, and traditional breakfasts often reflect the local ingredients and flavors of the area. These breakfasts provide a delicious way to start the day and explore the rich and diverse cuisine of Portugal.
Portuguese Breakfast in Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal has a vibrant food scene, and there are many top restaurants that serve traditional Portuguese breakfast and other breakfast dishes. Here are a few highly recommended options:
Café Janeiro: This classic Lisbon café serves a variety of traditional Portuguese breakfast items, including pastéis de nata, coffee, and fresh juices.
Confeitaria Nacional: Founded in 1829, this historic confectionery serves a variety of sweet and savory breakfast items, including croissants, quiches, and Portuguese sweet bread.
Mercado de Sant’Ana: This bustling market is home to a variety of food stalls, including several that serve breakfast items like pastel de nata, sandwiches, and fresh juices.
Pastelaria Alcôa: This popular pastry shop serves a variety of traditional Portuguese breakfast items, including custard tarts, cakes, and coffee.
Pastelaria Versailles: This classic Lisbon café serves a variety of traditional Portuguese breakfast items, including pastéis de nata, croissants, and coffee.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.