Guide to Tipping and Dining Etiquette in Portugal: Do’s and Don’ts

Portuguese food is like a warm hug. It is a beautiful mix of flavors, from fresh seafood rice that tastes like the ocean to those famous, crispy sweet egg tarts we all love. You can enjoy these treats everywhere - from fancy restaurants to cozy, family-run taverns on a quiet street corner.

Right now, something wonderful is happening in Portugal. Instead of trying to cook like people in France or Italy, Portuguese chefs are looking back at their own roots. They are falling in love again with the recipes of their grandmothers.

Today, you will find many exciting new places that keep these old traditions alive while adding a fresh, modern touch. It is a perfect time to taste the soul of Portugal!

Once you are seated at your table, according to Portuguese tradition, you will be offered appetizers: they can be bread, butter, olives, cheese, pate or something else. In some restaurants, you can choose the appetizers yourself - the waiter brings a large tray and you point to what you find appetizing. But, keep in mind, none of this is free! Therefore, if you have made your choice on something and accordingly have already started, you will have to pay for the appetizer. I advise you to clarify in advance the cost of what you want to try. Ask Quanto custa? - how much it costs. And if you want to refuse, say Não, obrigado/Não, obrigada ("não, obrigado" if you are a man or "não, obrigada" if you are a woman) - no, thank you. It's okay to say no to something you don't want or to ask the waiter what else he or she can recommend.

In many traditional restaurants, you can have a half portion (meia dose) rather than a whole portion. Locals often do this. Don't be afraid that half a portion won't be enough - in Portugal the dishes are so big that you can hardly finish them, so half a portion is often just what you need.

In Portugal, eating is a time to slow down and enjoy life. Most people follow a traditional rhythm for their meals, a habit they’ve loved since they were children. Because restaurants want to give you the best service and fresh food, they usually open at specific times.

Lunchtime (12:00 – 15:00) (12 PM- 3 PM)

The Portuguese love a good lunch! To find a cozy spot, it is best to arrive early, around 12:00 PM or 12:30 PM. By 1:00 PM, the dining rooms are full of happy voices and the smell of delicious food.

If you get hungry in the afternoon (between 14:00 and 19:00) (2pm-7pm), most kitchens take a rest. During this time, you can find a light snack or a sandwich at a local shop. While some tourist spots stay open all day, the most authentic "home-cooked" flavors usually wait for the traditional meal times.

Dinner (19:00 – 23:00) (7 PM - 11 PM)

Dinner is when the magic happens. It is a social time to share with friends and family. It is very common to see locals sitting down to eat around 20:00 (8PM)

In Portugal, people truly love good food—it is not unusual for someone to drive an hour just to visit a favorite restaurant or taste a special dish! So, when the sun goes down, get ready to relax and enjoy a long, beautiful meal.