Why the Portuguese Are Eating Out Less

Portuguese food culture has always been warm, simple, and social. A prato do dia for around €8 – soup, main course, drink, and coffee – was part of daily life. But things are changing. According to Expresso and Idealista, fewer Portuguese now eat out.

Less dining out, more home cooking

Since 2020, food prices have increased sharply. In 2024, the average Portuguese person spent €3,300 per year on food, one of the highest amounts in the EU. But more of this budget now goes to home cooking and family meals. Eating out has become expensive: lunch now costs on average €17.82 during the week and €18.29 at the weekend. Meanwhile, household spending on restaurants and hotels fell to 8.6%, compared to the EU average of 6.7%.

Pressure on small restaurants

Small tascas and family-run places are struggling the most. Where guests once ordered a daily menu, many now turn to takeaway or delivery via Uber Eats, Glovo or Takeaway.com. Convenient, yes – but risky for restaurants. Guests dining in often order more: starters, desserts, and in Portugal, almost always a bottle of wine. Delivery usually means just one main course, reducing profit margins.

What does dinner cost in Portugal?

A dinner in an average restaurant costs €20-35 per person for a full menu. In Bib Gourmand restaurants, a 3-course dinner is around €30-40, while a main only is typically €15-20. At the top end, luxury and Michelin-starred restaurants easily charge €100+ per person.

Traditions under pressure

Eating out has always been more than just food in Portugal – it’s a social ritual. Lunch with colleagues or dinner with family has deep cultural roots. The question is whether these traditions can survive, now that more people are returning to their kitchens.

Q&A – Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the Portuguese eating out less?
Due to the rising cost of living and higher restaurant prices, 41% of Portuguese now eat out less (Expresso/Idealista).

How much do the Portuguese spend on food?
On average €3,300 per person per year in 2024, adjusted for purchasing power – one of the highest in the EU.

What does lunch in Portugal cost today?
On average €17.82 during the week and €18.29 at weekends. That’s a national average including drinks and pricier restaurants. Traditional daily menus are still available for €8-10.

What does dinner in Portugal cost?
Expect €20-35 per person in average restaurants. A Bib Gourmand 3-course dinner is €30-40, and a main only €15-20. Luxury and Michelin-level restaurants charge €100+ per person.

Are takeaway and delivery a threat to restaurants?
Yes. Guests sitting down in a restaurant usually spend more on starters, desserts, and wine. Delivery orders are typically just one main course.