Lisbon Guide

Perhaps best known for its history, surf and sunshine, over the last few years Lisbon has added some world-class design focused shops, bars and restaurants making it a truly cosmopolitan European capital.

Here are a few of my favorite places to explore when I visit home (more to come)...enjoy!  

- Food & Drink -

A Cevicheria 

This is absolutely my favorite restaurant in Lisbon. Perfectly fresh fish and ceviche prepared right in front you along with warm bowls and new innovative dishes. It's a magic blend of Peruvian sensibility through a Portuguese lens by Chef Kiko. I recommend the tasting menu at the bar, get a bottle of sparkling green wine (the famous vinho verde) and enjoy the evening.

Rua D. Pedro V, 129
1200 Lisboa

Espaço Espelho D'Água

First and foremost, Espaço Espelho D'Água is an incredible building. Overlooking the river in the Belém neighborhood, by the super-contemporary Belém Cultural Center, the area is a 'must visit' for the sites and the famous pastries "Pastéis de Nata". But Espaço Espelho D'Água holds its own from a design standpoint - from the Portuguese cobblestone entryway to the recently discovered Sol LeWitt mural. Taking inspiration from its location from where great ships left to discover new lands in the 16th century, Chef Ana Soares re-imagines African, South American and Asian tastes in a contemporary setting.

Av. Brasília, 210, Belém
1400 Lisboa

Sol e Pesca

Now, I have to admit I've never been to Sol e Pesca before Midnight - that's just the Lisbon way! The "Pink Street"/"Rua Cor-de-Rosa", a pink-painted street in downtown becomes the center of Lisbon nightlife around the call of midnight. Named by the New York Times as one of their favorite streets in Europe, it's acceptable (and encouraged) to grab a cocktail or sangria somewhere and just live the night bar-hopping on this street as you make new friends. The quirky Sol e Pesca looks like a fishing tackle shop but it's the perfect spot for a late drink and some quick tapas as you enjoy the night.

R. Nova do Carvalho 44,
1200 Lisboa

A Tabacaria 

This is one of those places you hope to discover off the beaten path.  A Tabacaria is a former "Store of Luck" - where you'd pick up your daily lottery ticket. Its last owners had been there for decades and when they retired, new owner Mikas happily kept all the beautiful, ornate woodwork but gave the space a new lease of life through cocktail experimentation and tasty tapas. We prefer it in the summer when all the french doors are open onto the street and you can thrive off the energy of the city with some of the best gin cocktails in the city.

77, Rua de S. Paulo 75
1400 Lisboa

The Decadente 

The image here makes the restaurant look fancier than it actually is so don't be put off! The Decadente is the laid-back restaurant at the Independente Hotel in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, and the perfect casual lunch spot. Great salads and updates on traditional Portuguese dishes - this is where the locals hang out. The best way to enjoy this Monocle Magazine recommended lunch is to spoil yourself with an aperitif like The Ginginha Royal - glass of sparkling wine with a splash of a traditional cherry liquor. Follow it with the plate of the day since it's always very good, and then step outside and enjoy views across the city.

R. São Pedro de Alcântara 81,
1250 Lisboa

Azenhas do Mar 

This is a bit of a cheat since it's not actually in Lisbon, but it is without doubt worth the seaside drive.

Nestled in cliffs with an incredible view over the Atlantic, Azenhas do Mar is one of the places that I always make a point of visiting, Summer or Winter. When I miss Portugal and its food, its here that I think of - the "Bacalhau à Lagareiro", a fire-grilled codfish served with roasted potatoes - always hits the spot. Pair it with sparking wine and the best sunset around, and it just doesn't get any better.

Lugar das Restaurante Piscinas Azenhas-do-Mar,
2705 Colares