Bifanas - A Parreirinha do Chile
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In Lisboa
A Parreirinha do Chile is one of the oldest and most traditional taverns in Lisbon, operating since 1937. Located in Praça do Chile, in the Arroios neighbourhood, this small establishment of roughly 25 square metres is a true sanctuary for bifanas in Lisbon.
Although the entrance displays signs for "Wines. Soft drinks. Tobacco", the real speciality is the beautiful bifana made here. Good and affordable, served in a fresh bread roll with just the right amount of sauce, it comes with a warm welcome in this cosy space.
A story of passion for bifanas
A little over a year ago, Alexandre Nunes, one of the current partners, decided this place could be his. He used to pass by every day while studying and, later, while making deliveries as a driver. In a conversation with José Cardoso, the long-time former owner (40 years), he decided to take over the business, in partnership with José Rodrigues and Carlos Rodrigues, owners of the famous Bifanas do Afonso.
With the change of management, some adjustments were made to the recipes, bringing them closer to what many consider the best bifanas in Lisbon. However, A Parreirinha do Chile keeps a different secret.
The secret behind the bifanas
The pork is bought fresh from the butcher every day — never frozen — and marinated in white wine with various seasonings. It is then fried in a pan generously filled with lard, bay leaves and plenty of garlic, creating that irresistible aroma you can smell as soon as you step out of the metro station.
Alexandre Nunes reveals that he sells over 20 kilos of bifanas a day, always using meat bought that same day, which sets them apart from others. Besides the fried bifanas, there is also a grilled version, well tenderised and packed with garlic.
A hidden gem away from tourist routes
Queues at the door are constant, especially in the early morning, at lunchtime and late afternoon. But you don't have to wait long to be served because the bifanas are constantly coming out, steaming hot, just as they should be.
What makes this place even more special is the fact that it is not on the usual tourist routes, remaining an authentic gem in the heart of the city. The quality, the warm service and the inviting prices make this establishment a must-visit for anyone who appreciates true Lisbon street food.
Menu and prices
The menu is simple but delicious. Bifanas cost €3 each, while the grilled versions (bifanas and small pregos) range from €3.50 to €4. There are also other house specialities: pork crackling sandwiches, entremeada (€3), couratos (€2.50), breaded cutlets (€3), fish fillets (€3) and even surprising codfish fillet sandwiches.
To accompany your meal, a fresh draught beer costs €1.20 and glasses of wine just €0.80. There is also soup of the day (€1.50), canned soft drinks (€1.50) and water (€1.20).
Please note: cash only.
Practical information
- Address: Praça do Chile 14A, Arroios, Lisbon
- Payment: Cash only
- Specialities: Fried and grilled bifanas, pork crackling sandwiches, pregos
A Parreirinha do Chile continues, despite the change in management, to stand out for its authenticity and to offer some of the best bifanas in the city. A must-visit for anyone wanting to taste the true flavour of Lisbon.
Sobre Lisboa
Lisbon unfolds between its hills and the River Tagus, through cobbled streets, tiled façades and viewpoints overlooking the rooftops. Portugal’s capital invites you to pair its major monuments with the small pleasures of neighbourhood life: coffee at an outdoor table, an unhurried wander down a side street or a quiet moment by the river.
Neighbourhoods with different stories
In Alfama and Mouraria, narrow lanes and stairways invite exploration on foot. Lisbon Cathedral and São Jorge Castle offer an introduction to the old city, while the Portas do Sol viewpoint looks out over Alfama and the Tagus. For another perspective, head uphill to Graça and the Senhora do Monte viewpoint.
In Baixa Pombalina, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, the orderly street grid contrasts with the hillside neighbourhoods. Walk from Rossio to Praça do Comércio along Rua Augusta, then continue beside the river at Ribeira das Naus. Above Baixa, Chiado brings together bookshops, theatres and cafés; after dark, Bairro Alto is one of the city’s liveliest areas.
Belém and the waterfront
Set aside time for Belém, where the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower form a UNESCO World Heritage site. Combine the historic sights with a waterfront stroll and a stop for a pastel de Belém custard tart. To the east, Parque das Nações reveals another side of the capital, shaped by the urban transformation for Expo 98, contemporary architecture and waterside promenades.
Local flavours and time to wander
At the table, explore salt cod dishes, petiscos — small dishes to share — and pastéis de nata custard tarts. Fado offers another way into Lisbon’s culture, particularly in Alfama and Mouraria.
Plan your visit around neighbouring areas and allow time for hills and steps. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets and combine walking with public transport for longer journeys. Between monuments, leave room for the moments that need no itinerary: watching the river, discovering a square or lingering at a viewpoint.
Google Reviews
I stopped here for a quick meal after landing in Lisbon and really enjoyed the bifana. It was fresh, hot and full of flavour. The service was quick and friendly too. Remember it's cash only!
Such juicy yummy authentic bifana!! Try it with the Piri Piri and mustard and it changes the game. And pair it with their hearty soup! The owners and servers are so friendly! I will miss this place!!
Such a hidden gem! I came to this spot to try a Bifana and got a whole experience in return. The staff are super friendly and the food is authentic and tasty. You’ll get bonus points if you try speaking in Portuguese as a tourist/ expat. ❤️
My friends and I visited their spot during our Spring Break! We have waited to try the famous pork sandwiches for a while and this was the perfect place to start! The prices are good and the people there are really nice! The sandwiches were SO GOOD especially with the mustard and chili sauce. Went there yesterday and came back another time just now.
Nice bifana with so many locals chatting in house. Lovely atmosphere
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