Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal is a culturally rich and vibrant place. It’s full of sunshine, history, natural beauty, and mystery. From the amazing Fado music bars where can here traditional musicians croon soulful songs over a glass of Porto wine, to the country’s sandy beaches. It’s also a place that takes gastronomy very seriously. Even if you’ve visited in the past, the many new restaurants by renowned chefs and renovated hotels are all the reason to return for a visit. Getting there easier than ever too, as TAP Air Portugal has put new nonstop flights into service from Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.
New cool places to stay in the old town
The One Palacio da Anunciada – A 16th century palace turned hotel and engulfed by lush and verdant gardens. Book yourself one of the 83 rooms at this historic site near the Avenida da Liberdade. And indulge yourself with food from any of the three restaurants. Spend the afternoon treating yourself to a treatment at the spa that uses Natura Bissé products, or in one of the Balinese daybeds at the rooftop pool.
Bairro Alto Hotel – A luxury boutique hotel right in the center of Lisbon that’s renovated to include 32 new rooms and suites. The famous and local chef, Nuno Mendes, will be heading up the five restaurants on the property.
Great new hot summer eats
The food scene in Lisbon has never been better. New restaurants with the buzz of attention are opening almost on a weekly basis. Here are a few new options to satisfy your stomach’s soul this summer while there.
Attla – This foodie destination is located in the Alcantara neighborhood by Ducasse-trained chef, André Fernandes. A chic interior and an exciting menu that uses Portuguese-only ingredients, like a plate of grilled young onions with cod in a hazelnut chimichurri sauce, or squid in a squid ink curry.
Rei de China & Casa dos Prazeres – Two new restaurants by chef Estanis Carenzo that offer Portuguese-Asian fusion cuisine since the owner’s origin lies in Argentina and he’s also an Asian food connoisseur. The style is street-food-inspired so expect to find dishes like pork curry spiked with madeira.
Rossio Gastrobar – is located on the rooftop of the Altis Avenida Hotel where you can view all the terra-cotta roofs of the city below while dining in style. It is a new place by João Rodrigues, with a Michelin-starred background. Pick and choose from a variety of haute cuisine and comfort foods. Just a warning though, because you might have trouble deciding between dishes such as Arouquesa beef tartare topped with caviar and the katsu sando stuffed with breaded Iberico pork cutlet.
Picamiolos – This new place is by chef José Júlio Mendes Vintém that highlights cusuine from the Alentejo region of Portugal. It’s best to go here with an open mind and sense of adventure. Prepare yourself for dishes like: lard chunks drizzled with thyme and lemon juice or grilled pig ears served with fava beans.
Grenache – This small dining room, brought to the Lisbon scene by chef Philippe Gelfi, is situate right next to S ão Jorge Castle. You’ll fine plates of pork terrine with pickled cauliflower with turmeric sauce, or beef tartare with oysters and passion fruit dressing.