Lisbon: Codfish Dinner with Storyteller and Wine

If you’re seeking an experience that combines the best of Portugal’s culinary traditions with engaging storytelling, this Lisbon Codfish Dinner with Storyteller and Wine may just be the ticket. While we haven’t personally attended, the detailed descriptions and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-curated evening that offers more than just a meal — it’s an immersive dive into Lisbon’s culture, history, and gastronomy.

What immediately catches the eye is the unique blend of food and storytelling, paired with expertly selected wines. We love the fact that you’ll be sampling refined codfish dishes, each prepared with a different technique and flavor profile — a true celebration of one of Portugal’s most iconic ingredients. Another highlight is the storyteller, whose anecdotes and myths promise to add a lively, educational layer to the evening, making this experience appealing for those who enjoy cultural insights blended with their meals.

One potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include transportation to or from the venue. Also, it’s tailored for those with a keen interest in Portuguese cuisine, culture, and storytelling, so if you’re looking for a quick bite or are traveling with children under 12, this might not be the best fit. Overall, it’s a wonderful choice for food lovers and history buffs eager to connect with Lisbon on a deeper level.

Key Points

• Authentic Portuguese Cuisine: A curated selection of five refined codfish dishes highlights traditional techniques and flavors.
• Cultural storytelling: An engaging storyteller shares legends, myths, and historical anecdotes about Lisbon and its culinary traditions.
• Wine Pairings: Expertly selected Portuguese wines and Ginjinha enhance the tasting experience.
• Educational and Fun: Between courses, lively stories about Lisbon’s culture deepen your understanding of the city.
• All-Inclusive Experience: The menu includes appetizers, main courses, desserts, and drinks, providing good value.
• Small Group Atmosphere: The experience is designed for small groups, fostering intimacy and interaction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What the Experience Offers

Imagine stepping into a cozy, carefully curated space in Lisbon, where the aroma of freshly prepared codfish wafts through the air. Your evening kicks off with a welcoming aperitif — a glass of port wine — and the first story that sets the tone for what’s to come. Over three hours, you’ll enjoy a series of thoughtfully prepared dishes, each showcasing a different aspect of Portugal’s beloved codfish, or “bacalhau,” a staple that has shaped the nation’s cuisine for centuries.

The experience is designed to be both delicious and educational. After the initial reception, the real fun begins with a curated menu of five codfish dishes, each one an opportunity to taste something different — whether it’s a tapa, a main course, or a special preparation emphasizing technique. Between bites, the storyteller takes center stage, sharing tales, myths, and facts that weave together the food and history of Lisbon.

The Menu: A Taste of Portuguese Heritage

The food component is the heart of this experience. You’ll start with varied entrées, including different types of codfish tapas, sardinha pâté, olives, octopus, and bread. These small bites serve as a flavorful introduction, highlighting the diversity of Portuguese appetizers.

The main course is a curated selection of five refined codfish dishes. Expect to encounter traditional techniques, such as salt cod prepared in various ways, each one offering a unique flavor and texture. This variety allows you to appreciate how versatile and culturally significant codfish is in Portuguese cuisine.

For dessert, you’ll enjoy Pastel de Nata and Creme Burlé, two iconic Portuguese sweets that perfectly cap off the meal. To pair with these, a glass of Ginjinha — the famous cherry liqueur — is included, offering a sweet, slightly tart finish to your culinary journey.

The drinks don’t stop there. Throughout the evening, you’ll have access to welcome port wine, white and red wines, water, soda, and tea, ensuring your hydration and enjoyment are taken care of without the need for additional purchases.

The Storytelling Element: Making It Memorable

What sets this experience apart is the storytelling. The guide, who is also a storyteller, shares historical anecdotes, myths, and cultural curiosities about Lisbon, its relationship with codfish, and Portugal’s culinary traditions. These tales add warmth and context, transforming a meal into a storytelling session that’s both informative and fun.

Reviews mention that the storyteller is knowledgeable and engaging, helping to connect the food with Lisbon’s history. One testimonial notes, “The stories made the dishes come alive, turning a simple dinner into an educational experience.” You’ll likely find yourself more appreciative of the dishes, knowing the legends and history behind each bite.

The Logistics: Practical Aspects

The tour lasts about three hours, making it a manageable evening activity that won’t interfere with your plans to explore Lisbon the next day. The meeting point is at “Porta verde com uma placa a dizer Espaço -1,” a straightforward location in the city. The experience ends back at the same spot, so you won’t have to worry about transportation arrangements.

Pricing at $91 per person is quite reasonable considering the quality of the food, wine, storytelling, and intimate group setting. Given that the menu includes multiple courses and drinks, the value for a cultural and culinary experience is solid.

Group size is small, which means you’re likely to receive personalized attention and have the chance to engage with the storyteller and your fellow travelers. This intimacy enhances the overall enjoyment.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience’s Strengths

• Authentic and well-curated menu: You’re not just eating; you’re tasting a slice of Portugal’s culinary soul.
• Engaging storytelling: The stories help you see the dishes in a richer cultural context.
• Wine pairings: Carefully chosen wines add depth and complement the flavors.
• Small-group setting: Promotes interaction and a more personal experience.
• Flexible booking options: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay-later options add peace of mind.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is thoughtfully curated, it’s not suitable for everyone. It doesn’t include transportation, so you’ll need to get there on your own. It’s also geared toward adults and older children — under 12s might find it less engaging. Plus, those with mobility challenges should note that the activity might involve some walking or standing, depending on the venue.

This experience is ideal for food lovers and culture enthusiasts eager to explore Lisbon beyond the typical sights. If you enjoy stories and learning about local traditions through food, you’ll find this a worthwhile outing. It’s particularly attractive for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting an intimate, authentic experience.

The Lisbon Codfish Dinner with Storyteller and Wine offers a satisfying blend of culinary delights and cultural storytelling, making it more than just a meal. It’s a chance to connect with Portugal’s traditions, understand the importance of codfish in local life, and enjoy a relaxed evening in good company and excellent wine.

With a thoughtfully curated menu, engaging tales, and a small-group setting, this experience provides real value for those looking to deepen their appreciation of Lisbon’s heritage. While it’s not a quick snack or a sightseeing tour, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening that will leave you with a fuller belly — and a richer understanding of Portuguese culture.

Whether you’re a foodie eager for local flavors or a history buff curious about Lisbon’s legends, this tour will likely satisfy your craving for authentic experiences.

Is transportation included with this tour?
No, transportation to and from the venue isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately three hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable evening activity.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally aimed at adults and older children, as the content and pacing are tailored for a mature audience.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What languages are available for the storytelling?
The tour is offered in English and Spanish, suitable for a broad range of travelers.

What does the price include?
The fee covers the tasting menu (including appetizers, main dishes, desserts), drinks (port wine, Wines, Ginjinha, water, soda, tea), and the storytelling experience.

Is there a dress code or specific attire recommended?
No special dress code is mentioned; dress comfortably for an evening in Lisbon.

This experience offers a delightful way to spend an evening. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy authentic Portuguese food, learn some local legends, and sip good wine — all in a relaxed, intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: