Lisbon’s Post-Colonial Feast

For centuries, Portuguese ships connected Europe with India, West Africa, Brazil and beyond, carrying spices, coffee, knowledge, gold and, most tragically, enslaved people. In colonial kitchens, these exchanges created hybrid cuisines that blended Portuguese traditions with local ingredients and influences. Today, Lisbon’s food culture is deeply shaped by communities from Portugal’s former colonies. On this full-day tour, we explore that complex history through the kitchens of central Lisbon. We’ll taste Brazilian pastries and snacks, Cape Verdean cachupa and grog, Angolan coffee, São Tomé chocolate and fiery piripiri sauces. Along the way, we’ll discuss the legacies of slavery, migration, religion and trade. We’ll also enjoy piripiri chicken inspired by Angola and visit a Goan family preserving dishes like samosas, bojés, sanná and bebinca. The day ends at a scenic viewpoint, celebrating the rich culinary traditions that have found a home in Lisbon.