Let's start our culinary journey from the heart of Lisbon, where the real pearls for seafood lovers are hidden. Our first stop is Uma Marisqueira II, located at Rua do Comércio 14. This place is a true paradise for those looking for fresh seafood at affordable prices. The restaurant is famous for its excellent seafood paella, which is not only delicious, but also very filling. Guests also praise the octopus salad, described as 'the best in the world'. What's more, Uma Marisqueira II offers a sangria that pairs perfectly with the sea dishes. Prices are very attractive, with the average price of a dish around €15, making this place ideal for frugal travelers.

Not far away, at Rua dos Bacalhoeiros 28 B, is another gem - Baixamar - Mariscos e Petiscos. This restaurant is a true feast for the senses. Here guests delight not only in the taste of the dishes, but also in their presentation. The octopus is particularly recommended, although some guests suggest that the side dish of mashed sweet potatoes could be better seasoned. The fish soup, which is described as 'very good,' is worth trying here. For dessert, the Portuguese ice cream tart is a must-try. The service is described as 'excellent: friendly, professional and helpful,' which makes your stay at the restaurant even more enjoyable.

For those looking for an authentic local experience, the ideal choice would be Santa Rita at Rua de São Mamede 24, a small, cozy restaurant offering fresh fish and seafood at really affordable prices. Guests especially praise the grilled octopus and cod. Importantly, the portions here are large and nicely served. Santa Rita is a place where you can feel the real atmosphere of the local cuisine and at the same time not strain your budget.

When comparing the three places, there are several aspects worth noting. Uma Marisqueira II seems to be the most economical choice, with dish prices around €15. Baixamar - Mariscos e Petiscos may be a bit more expensive, but makes up for it with high quality and presentation of dishes. Santa Rita, on the other hand, offers the most authentic local culinary experience. All three restaurants enjoy high ratings (4.5-4.6 stars), a testament to their consistently good quality. Choosing between them can depend on whether you prioritize the lowest price (Uma Marisqueira II), exceptional presentation of dishes (Baixamar) or the most local experience (Santa Rita).

Leaving the city center, it's worth heading to neighborhoods that, while less known to tourists, hide real culinary treasures. One such place is O Rio Marisqueira / Seafood Restaurant Belém, located at R. Bartolomeu Dias 112. This restaurant, located in Belém's historic district, offers not only delicious food, but also the opportunity to enjoy beautiful views. Guests especially praise the garlic shrimp and seafood rice. Importantly, the portions here are very generous, making the value for money really good. The restaurant enjoys a 4.7-star rating, a testament to its high quality.

O Rio Marisqueira stands out not only for the taste of its dishes, but also for its atmosphere. The interior of the restaurant is described as very nice, which further enhances the dining experience. It is worth noting that the service here is extremely friendly and helpful, which is often emphasized by guests in their reviews. As for the prices, they are in the moderate range, making this place accessible to travelers on a tight budget.

Another place worth visiting is Lisbon Tu e Eu, located at R da Adiça 58. This small local eatery is a real gem for lovers of authentic Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant is especially famous for its delicious octopus salad and grilled sardines. Guests emphasize that the food here is not only delicious, but also served in portions adequate to the price.

Lisbon Tu e Eu is a place that impresses not only with the taste of the food, but also with its unique atmosphere. Many guests describe the place as very atmospheric, with a homey atmosphere that 100 percent reflects the taste of the dishes served here. Importantly, the restaurant offers its delicacies at affordable prices, making it an ideal choice for those looking for budget options.

When comparing O Rio Marisqueira and Lisbon Tu e Eu, several aspects are worth noting. O Rio Marisqueira seems to be a slightly more elegant place, with a beautiful interior and views of the Belém district. Lisbon Tu e Eu, on the other hand, is a more intimate, authentic experience of local cuisine. As for prices, both restaurants fall in the moderate to cheap range, with Lisbon Tu e Eu perhaps a bit cheaper.

Both places have very good reviews - O Rio Marisqueira has a rating of 4.7 and Lisbon Tu e Eu 4.5 stars. The choice between the two may depend on whether you prefer a more elegant setting (O Rio Marisqueira) or a more intimate, local atmosphere (Lisbon Tu e Eu). Regardless of your choice, both places guarantee fresh, delicious seafood at affordable prices.

It's worth noting that both O Rio Marisqueira and Lisbon Tu e Eu are places that allow you to experience the authentic flavors of Lisbon without straining your budget. They are proof that delicious seafood doesn't have to be expensive, and that the best culinary experiences often await you off the main tourist routes.

To conclude our culinary journey in Lisbon, it's worth summarizing some valuable tips that will help you enjoy the taste of fresh seafood without straining your budget.

First, it's always a good idea to pay attention to the prices of 'couvert' - that is, appetizers that are often automatically served to the table. In some restaurants, such as at Adega Dom Luis, the 'couvert' (appetizer dishes with olives, bread and cheese) comes with an extra charge. If you don't feel like having these appetizers, you can ask not to bring them, which will save you a few euros.

Another important tip is to choose a time of day to visit a restaurant. Many places offer better prices at lunchtime. For example, at the Uma Marisqueira II restaurant you can find dishes for around 15 euros, which is a very attractive deal for fresh seafood in the center of Lisbon.

Local seasonal specialties are also worth noting. Particularly popular in Lisbon are sardines, which are not only delicious, but also relatively inexpensive. Lisbon restaurant Tu e Eu is famous for its delicious grilled sardines, which are a must-try for any seafood lover.

Also, don't be afraid to move away from the main tourist routes. Often the best and cheapest restaurants are found in less-traveled neighborhoods. An example is Santa Rita, a small restaurant offering fresh fish and seafood at affordable prices.

Also keep in mind that many restaurants offer dishes to share. At O Rio Marisqueira, for example, the portions are very generous, so one dish can be enough for two people, greatly reducing the cost of the meal.

It's also worth looking out for restaurants that offer tasting menus. While this may seem like a more expensive option at first, it often allows you to try many different dishes at a favorable price.

Also, don't forget about local drinks, which pair perfectly with seafood. Vinho Verde, or 'green wine,' is not only delicious, but also relatively inexpensive. It can be found in most restaurants, including Uma Marisqueira II, where they also serve great sangria.

Finally, it is worth mentioning one of the most distinctive features of Portuguese gastronomy - hospitality. Many restaurants, such as Adega Dom Luis, offer free side dishes or desserts, which is a nice gesture and saves you money on your meal.

All in all, Lisbon offers a wide range of options for seafood lovers, regardless of budget. From cozy tavernas to modern restaurants, there is something for everyone. The key to a successful and economical meal is exploration, being open to local specialties and taking advice from locals. Remember that the best culinary experiences often await where we least expect them. Enjoy your meals and successful culinary discoveries in Lisbon!