Where to eat and drink in Leiria: Best pubs and restaraunts for Sunderland fans

Sunderland‘s return to European football takes another step on Thursday, 15 October, when Regis Le Bris takes his side to Portugal to face SCU Torreense in Europa League matchday two, with kick-off at the Estadio Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa, also known as the Estadio Municipal de Leiria.

It will be Sunderland's first European away game since their last appearance on the continent in 1973, with the club receiving an allocation of 3,990 tickets for the trip and that should bring plenty of Black Cats supporters to Leiria.

Leiria is centred around its historic castle and has plenty of places to stop for a drink or something to eat, whether you are looking for a quick bite, a few beers or a proper Portuguese meal before kick-off.

Here is FootballGroundGuide's guide to some of the best pubs, bars and restaurants in Leiria for Sunderland fans making the trip.

Best pubs and bars in Leiria

The Monkey Business Bar

Rua Machado dos Santos is home to The Monkey Business Bar, a small cocktail spot in the town centre that has built up a strong reputation among visitors. The staff speak Portuguese and English, while the drinks menu includes a good range of cocktails, although the limited space means it can become busy.

Os Filipes Bar

For something a little livelier, Os Filipes Bar on Largo Candido Reis has been part of Leiria's nightlife for years. Cheap drinks, live music and long opening hours make it a useful option for supporters who want to stay out after the match, with the bar opening from mid-morning into the early hours.

Bar Alternativa

Bar Alternativa, on Rua Barao de Viamonte, has a more relaxed feel and is well regarded by locals and visitors alike. The owner is regularly praised for his friendly welcome, while the menu also includes petiscos, so you can have a few Portuguese small plates alongside your drink.

Classic local food in Leira: Tascas and Petiscos

Mata Bicho Real Taverna

Right in Praca Rodrigues Lobo, Mata Bicho Real Taverna is a popular choice for traditional Portuguese food, with generous portions and a menu featuring pork, sausage and various sharing plates. Its central location also makes it an easy place to reach while exploring the city centre.

Petisqueira Merendeira da Se

Not far from the cathedral, Petisqueira Merendeira da Se has the sort of setting that should appeal to a visiting football crowd, with scarves and shirts hanging from the ceiling. The kitchen focuses on small sharing plates and homemade desserts, while its late opening hours make it an option for anyone looking for food after the game.

Taverna do Alberto

Taverna do Alberto is a smaller, more traditional option, particularly known for its steaks and alheira, the Portuguese sausage. Reviews often mention the friendly service and reasonable prices, including from visitors who do not speak Portuguese.

Restaurants worth the trip in Leira 

Joao Gordo

If you want somewhere with plenty of local support behind it, Joao Gordo is hard to overlook, having attracted a large number of reviews and a reputation for traditional Portuguese food. Sharing plates and steaks are among the main draws, with the tomahawk being one of the dishes the restaurant is known for, so booking ahead would be sensible.

Casinha Velha

In Marrazes, a short journey from central Leiria, Casinha Velha offers a more upmarket meal without feeling overly formal. Regional cheeses, cured meats and Portuguese wine feature heavily, making it a good choice for supporters who want to sit down for a longer meal before heading towards the stadium.

Restaurante Atlas Leiria

Restaurante Atlas Leiria occupies a converted old building and combines food, drinks and a more cultural atmosphere. Its terrace is one of the main attractions, particularly for anyone wanting views towards the castle, while the relaxed setting makes it easy to spend a little longer there.

Restaurant closest to Estadio Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa

Restaurante Estadio

As the name suggests, Restaurante Estadio is close to the Estadio Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa and is one of the more practical choices for anyone who does not want to travel far before kick-off. It serves straightforward Portuguese dishes from early morning into the evening, so it can work for an early meal or a final stop before heading into the ground.

Fast food in Leira

Fast-food choices around the stadium are fairly limited, so supporters looking for something familiar may need to travel a little further. The best-reviewed McDonald's option is out by the Variante Sul ring road, which is more suitable for a short taxi journey or a drive than a walk from the stadium.

FGG Verdict: Where Should You Go?

For a quiet drink before the game, The Monkey Business Bar and Bar Alternativa should suit supporters who want somewhere relaxed, while Os Filipes Bar is the better fit for anyone after a busier atmosphere and longer night.

Mata Bicho Real Taverna and Joao Gordo are good choices for trying traditional Portuguese food, with the former particularly handy if you are already in the centre. If convenience is the priority, Restaurante Estadio is the obvious option, putting you close to the ground without having to make another journey across the city before kick-off.