Lisbon, November 2025.
The atmosphere around the Altice Arena was thick with a mix of post-event exhilaration and the quiet melancholy of an ending. For me, CityNomix, the third day of Web Summit 2025 marked the conclusion of my journey. Tomorrow, I would be flying home.
The relentless rain had finally ceased as I stepped out of the venue. The wet asphalt mirrored the vibrant neon glow of the massive screens, painting the ground in shades of cyan and magenta.
“Thank you for this year. I’ll be back next time!” I whispered to the empty benches, feeling a deep sense of gratitude.
My mind was still buzzing with the insights from the conference—particularly the revelation of Singapore-based “Manus AI” and their vision for autonomous agents. (You can read my full report on that here). However, as the intellectual excitement settled, a primal need took over: hunger.
A Craving for Comfort in Parque das Nações
Walking back towards my hotel in the Parque das Nações district, the modern face of Lisbon, I realized I hadn’t eaten a proper meal all day. The adrenaline of the summit had suppressed my appetite, but now, on my final night, I wanted something more than just fuel. I needed comfort.
While Lisbon is famous for its seafood and bacalhau, my body was screaming for carbohydrates, cheese, and rich, savory sauces. I wanted Italian. I recalled passing a lively restaurant called TOTALE on my first day. It had been packed then, a sign of quality. Tonight, it would be my sanctuary.
The TOTALE Experience: Modern Vibes and Warm Service
I arrived at “TOTALE Ristorante Pizzeria.” The exterior was striking, with large blue neon lettering illuminating the night. Through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, I could see a warm, inviting interior. Unlike the bustling first night, the restaurant was calmer, likely due to the earlier rain. The wet cobblestones of the outdoor terrace glistened under the streetlights, adding a touch of romance to the solo dining experience.
Entering the restaurant, I was greeted immediately. Solo dining in Lisbon is generally a breeze; the Portuguese hospitality is welcoming and unpretentious. I was quickly seated at a comfortable wooden table.
Navigating the Menu
The menu presented a delightful dilemma. The “Create your pizza” section offered intriguing options like Black Charcoal dough, which is quite trendy in Europe. However, my heart was set on pasta. I scanned the “Fresh pasta” list: Salmon and Vodka Tagliolini, Pear and Gorgonzola Parcels… choices, choices.
When in doubt, trust the locals. I flagged down a friendly waiter.
“I’m really in the mood for pasta. What do you recommend?”
He didn’t hesitate. “The Truffle Carbonara. It’s rich, creamy, and definitely a staff favorite.”
Sold. I placed the order, added a cold beer to start, and decided to contemplate dessert later.
The dessert menu, featuring items like “Pistachio Tiramisu,” was already calling my name, but one step at a time.
The Feast: Cold Beer and Truffle Perfection
First came the beer—a classic Heineken. In a tall glass, condensation dripping down the sides, with a perfect head of foam. It was the ideal palate cleanser after a long day of networking and walking. I took a long sip, letting the crisp bitterness wash away the conference fatigue.
(For those who prefer other options, the drink menu was extensive, featuring a nice selection of Bio Drinks and Sangrias).
Then, the main event arrived. The Truffle Carbonara was served on a beautiful blue and white patterned plate that seemed to frame the food like art. Large rigatoni tubes were coated in a glossy, creamy sauce, speckled with black pepper and herbs, and topped with generous bits of crispy bacon.
The aroma of truffle was intoxicating—earthy and luxurious, but not overpowering. The first bite confirmed the waiter’s recommendation. The pasta was cooked al dente, providing a satisfying chew. The sauce was rich and velvety, with the saltiness of the bacon cutting through the cream perfectly. It wasn’t just a meal; it was exactly the comfort I had been seeking.
The Sweet Finale: Pistachio Tiramisu
Despite the richness of the pasta, there is always a separate stomach for dessert, especially when on a trip. I ordered the Tiramisu I had eyed earlier.
It arrived in a stylish glass jar, a modern presentation that fit the restaurant’s vibe. The lid was open, revealing a creamy layer topped with a vibrant green mound of chopped pistachios. The taste was sublime—the bitterness of the coffee-soaked sponge balanced the sweet mascarpone, while the pistachios added a nutty crunch that elevated the classic dessert to a new level.
Why TOTALE is a Gem for Travelers
Finding the best restaurants in Lisbon can be overwhelming given the sheer number of options. However, for business travelers attending events at the Altice Arena or tourists staying in Parque das Nações, TOTALE offers a high-quality, reliable dining experience without the need to trek into the crowded city center.
As I walked back to my hotel, the cool night air feeling refreshing against my skin, I felt a sense of completion. Good food has the power to turn a simple evening into a memorable finale.
CityNomix’s Guide: Dining in Lisbon
Based on my experiences and research, here is a quick guide to help you navigate the culinary landscape of this beautiful city, focusing on what travelers often search for.
Finding the Best Restaurants in Lisbon
When searching for the best restaurants in Lisbon, context is key. For modern, reliable dining like my experience tonight, Parque das Nações is excellent. However, for history and atmosphere, you must venture to Chiado or Príncipe Real. Look for places where locals are eating; if a place is empty at 9 PM, skip it.
Michelin Star Restaurants in Lisbon
For those seeking culinary excellence, Michelin star restaurants in Lisbon offer world-class gastronomy. Belcanto (two stars) by Chef José Avillez is a pilgrimage site for foodies. Alma is another standout in Chiado. These require reservations months in advance and a significant budget, but they provide an unforgettable journey through Portuguese flavors.
Cheap Restaurants in Lisbon
Travelers on a budget will be pleased to know that there are plenty of cheap restaurants in Lisbon. Look for “Tascas”—traditional, no-frills eateries. A “Prato do Dia” (Dish of the Day) often includes soup, a main course, and a drink for under €15. These spots are the heart and soul of Lisbon dining.
Seafood Restaurants in Lisbon
You cannot leave without trying the ocean’s bounty. The best seafood restaurants in Lisbon often look like beer halls. Cervejaria Ramiro is legendary for its giant tiger prawns and crab. Be prepared to wait in line, but the fresh shellfish and the steak sandwich (prego) for dessert are worth it.
Solo Dining in Lisbon
Solo dining Lisbon is comfortable and common. Whether it’s a quick meal at a counter or a relaxed dinner at a place like TOTALE, I’ve never felt out of place. The staff are usually chatty and attentive. The Time Out Market is also a fantastic option for solo travelers wanting to sample various dishes without the formality of a sit-down restaurant.
Restaurants in Baixa Lisbon
Restaurants in Baixa Lisbon (downtown) can be tourist traps. Avoid places with plastic food displays or waiters aggressively pulling you in. Instead, wander a few streets away from the main drag (Rua Augusta) to find hidden gems serving authentic fare.
Bacalhau and Octopus
Finally, specific dishes drive many restaurant choices. For bacalhau restaurants Lisbon, try A Casa do Bacalhau to experience the versatility of salted cod. If you crave octopus restaurants in Lisbon, look for “Polvo à Lagareiro” on the menu—octopus roasted in abundant olive oil with potatoes. It’s a texture and flavor revelation.
TOTALE Ristorante Pizzeria
Av. D. João II, 1.12.01, 1990-091 Lisboa, Portugal
Official Site: https://totale.pt/
Google Map:
