My favorite part of travel is almost always the food. I love experiencing the cuisine of another culture and the best local dishes. Luckily, my traveling companions on my trip to Lisbon shared the same love of good food. While we enjoyed many incredible culinary experiences on our trip, here are some standouts:

• Cervejaria Ramiro: My husband read about this popular seafood spot, visited by Anthony Bourdain, ahead of our trip, so we made sure to visit as soon as it opened for lunch to beat the crowds. We split garlic shrimp, scarlet shrimp, crab, garlic bread and a bottle of wine. It was a fun experience breaking into the shrimp and crab . . . and a tasty one, too.
• Confeitaria Nacional: We stumbled upon this charming bakery while shopping one afternoon. Founded in 1829, the pastry shop serves a variety of traditional Portuguese treats and other incredible desserts. We ordered three desserts and three espressos, and our bill came to only €6. We enjoyed the desserts so much we went back the next day for more.
• Chef José de Avillez restaurants: The popular Portuguese chef is perhaps best known for his two Michelin-starred Belcanto. However, Avillez owns several other outposts, two of which we experienced during our stay: Cantinho do Avillez Lisboa and Mini Bar. Cantinho offers contemporary Portuguese cuisine. Mini Bar’s concept is more unique, offering interesting presentations and surprise dishes. We had great dining experiences at both restaurants.

You can’t go wrong with seafood or pastries in Lisbon!

— Katie Skrzek, vice president/digital director