Submerso: Oceanário de Lisboa’s New Restaurant Celebrates Portuguese Petiscos

Oceanário de Lisboa has a new gastronomic destination: Submerso, a Portuguese petiscos restaurant that opened its doors on 17 July in a soft opening phase, created in partnership with the SushiCafé Group.

A Journey Through Portuguese Flavours

Set within Oceanário de Lisboa, overlooking the Tagus river, Submerso takes diners on a journey through Portuguese cuisine and its centuries-old connections with the world — the flavours the Portuguese carried across the seas, and those other cultures brought back to Portuguese tables in return.

The result is a menu that revives authentic dishes, presenting many of them in a petisco-style format. Guests are invited to explore and share a variety of flavours within a single meal.

The philosophy is distinctly homemade. Much of the preparation takes place in the restaurant itself, using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from Portugal.

From Portuguese cured meats and cheeses to confit sardines, cured mackerel, octopus, bacalhau à Brás and the iconic Portuguese steak sandwich (prego), the menu showcases traditional recipes. More substantial dishes, such as Portuguese-style steak and pork belly, also feature on the menu.

To finish, guests can indulge in homemade desserts including pastéis de nata, rice pudding and chocolate mousse.

The wine list highlights Portuguese grape varieties and wine-producing regions. Portuguese beers also take centre stage, making Submerso an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a drink and a petisco overlooking the river.

A Space for Visitors and Locals

With around 70 indoor seats and a counter accommodating 12 guests, Submerso was designed to welcome Oceanário de Lisboa visitors, many of whom come from abroad. At the same time, it aims to attract families, couples and small groups living or working in the Parque das Nações area.

In the future, the restaurant will also feature an outdoor terrace overlooking the River Tagus, creating an even more inviting setting in which to enjoy a meal.