Lisbon: Portuguese street food cooking class with Drinks

A friendly take on Lisbon’s street food cooking class

If you’re curious about Portuguese cuisine but don’t want to just eat your way through Lisbon—though that’s definitely a treat—then a Portuguese street food cooking class might be just what you need. We’ve come across this experience at the Compadre Cooking School, and it sounds like a perfect way to get a taste of local flavors while having some fun in the kitchen.

What really draws us in? First, the chance to learn how to prepare famous street snacks like Bifana and Caldo Verde—not just see them on menus. And second, the opportunity to pair these dishes with Portuguese drinks like wine and Ginja, making it more than just about cooking, but a full cultural experience.

Of course, no experience is perfect. Some might consider the two-hour duration a bit short for a deep dive into Portuguese cuisine, but for most, it’s enough to walk away with new skills and some tasty memories. This class is especially suitable for food lovers and adventurous travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and are open to trying new flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Hands-on learning: You’ll prepare authentic street food dishes alongside an expert chef.
• Cultural stories: The class includes fascinating insights into the origins of each dish, enriching the tasting experience.
• Inclusive for all skill levels: No prior cooking experience needed—just a love for good food and a sense of adventure.
• Delicious communal meal: After cooking, you’ll sit down together to enjoy your creations, paired with Portuguese wine and Ginja.
• Price point: At $57 per person, it offers a solid value for a memorable culinary experience in Lisbon.
• Local atmosphere: The class is held in a modern, clean kitchen, making it comfortable and welcoming.

An inside look at the experience

The class begins at the Compadre Cooking School, located in a bright, modern kitchen that immediately makes you feel at ease. Once everyone has arrived, the atmosphere is friendly and informal, perfect for a relaxed learning environment. The guide, an experienced chef, kicks things off with a brief intro to the dishes and their background—some stories about how these street foods have become symbols of Portuguese culture.

The main focus is on two iconic dishes: the Bifana, a simple yet flavorful pork sandwich, and Caldo Verde, a hearty kale soup. The chef explains the history behind each dish, making sure everyone understands their significance beyond just ingredients. The preparation is straightforward, designed to be accessible for newcomers, yet rewarding enough for seasoned home cooks.

As you chop, season, and assemble, the instructor shares tips and tricks, along with interesting anecdotes. Our favorite part? Hearing stories about how these dishes are staples in local snack bars and festivals, giving us a glimpse into the everyday life of Lisbon’s residents.

During the cooking process, you’ll be side by side with your fellow participants, often exchanging tips or just sharing laughs. The session lasts around two hours—so it’s a quick, engaging dive into Portuguese comfort foods. Once everything is ready, everyone gathers around the table to enjoy the fruits of their labor. The dishes are served with a glass of Portuguese wine (red or white, your choice), and you can finish with a shot of Ginja—cherry liqueur that adds a sweet note to the experience.

The reviews echo our sentiments: Jennyfer called it “amazing” and appreciated the entertaining guides who offered a true look into Portuguese culture, while Jacquelin praised the tasty recipes and the welcoming studio environment. Scott enjoyed learning lesser-known recipes, which added depth to the typical Portuguese fare.

What makes this tour stand out?

Authentic recipes: It’s not just about the popular Pastel de Nata or codfish—this class introduces you to authentic, everyday staples that locals love, like the Bifana and Caldo Verde, plus Peixinhos da horta, inspiring tempura lovers.

Cultural storytelling: The explanations about the origin and role of each dish add richness, turning a cooking class into a mini cultural tour.

Group size and atmosphere: The class is intimate enough (though the exact size isn’t specified) that you can ask questions freely and get personal guidance. The modern, clean space helps keep everything comfortable.

Pricing and value: For $57, this includes all ingredients, guidance from an expert chef, drinks, and a shared meal. Considering that you’re not just tasting but actively making these dishes, it’s a reasonable price for a memorable experience.

Accessibility and flexibility: The class is suitable for most, with no prior experience required, and they are willing to adapt recipes for dietary needs if notified in advance.

What could be better?

While the experience is generally well-loved, some might find the two-hour duration leaves little time for deep dives into Portuguese cuisine. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your arrival accordingly. Those with mobility issues should note that the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible. But overall, the friendly environment and straightforward recipes make this accessible for many travelers.

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Practical info to keep in mind

• Location: Starts at the Compadre Cooking School kitchen
• Duration: About 2 hours, check for starting times
• Cost: $57 per person, includes ingredients, drinks, and meal
• Group size: Not specified, but likely small and intimate
• Age suitability: Not explicitly mentioned, but generally geared toward adults and food lovers
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for cooking
• Not allowed: Smoking, alcohol, drugs during class
• Cancellation: Full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance
• Language: Conducted in English

Our take

This cooking class offers a genuine glimpse into Portugal’s everyday food scene, far from tourist traps. The mix of hands-on cooking, storytelling, and shared eating makes it a well-rounded experience. If you’re a foodie who loves to get your hands dirty and enjoy local drinks, this is a perfect choice. Plus, it’s a relatable, fun way to connect with fellow travelers and bring home skills that go beyond just the trip.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of Portuguese street food—beyond the usual pastries—this class delivers authentic recipes and stories that add real flavor to your Lisbon adventure. It’s also a solid value for the price, considering everything included.

Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with friends, this experience offers a memorable, tasty slice of Lisbon’s vibrant food culture. Just remember to arrive on time, wear comfortable clothes, and get ready to enjoy some good company and even better bites.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior cooking experience is needed. The recipes are straightforward and designed to be accessible for all skill levels.

How long is the class?
The class lasts approximately 2 hours, with starting times depending on availability—be sure to check ahead.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a glass of Portuguese wine (red or white) is included, along with a tasting of Ginja, the cherry liqueur.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, if you have specific diet needs, you can contact the provider in advance to adapt the recipes.

Where does the class take place?
In the modern kitchen of the Compadre Cooking School, centrally located in Lisbon.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to and from the class is not included, so plan accordingly.

In short, this Lisbon street food cooking class offers a genuine, engaging way to explore Portugal’s beloved flavors while having fun with food and drinks. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to connect more deeply with local culture—one bite at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: