Lisbon: the restaurant scene is evolving alongside the city – here are the ‘culinary start-ups’ not to be missed
The profound transformation, which is becoming increasingly global in nature for start-up founders, has also evolved from a gastronomic perspective, whilst not forgetting local roots
Key points
In recent years, Lisbon has undergone a quiet but unstoppable transformation, becoming one of Europe’s most vibrant and sought-after cities. The long-term impact of Lisbon’s renaissance can be seen in many ways: in the energy of the start-ups that have chosen the city as their European base, and in the steadily rising property values, which attract investors and digital nomads from all over the world, but also in the explosion of new restaurants and cocktail bars that reinterpret Portuguese cuisine with international touches, n
From historic neighbourhoods such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, which are now increasingly brought to life by signature bistros and cutting-edge mixology bars, to new creative districts such as Marvila and Alcântara — former industrial areas transformed into gastronomic and cultural hubs — Lisbon is experiencing a true urban renaissance. Here, the nostalgia of fado coexists with the rhythm of new trends, the scent of pasteis de nata mingles with the aroma of cocktails, and azulejo-clad façades stand alongside contemporary architecture designed by international firms. Here are the latest gastronomic frontiers.
Gardenias Lisbon, with a Caribbean vibe
If you’re planning a trip to the Portuguese capital, one of the new venues that’s really livening up the nightlife scene is Gardenias Lisboa, the new venture by Aline Vargas and barlady Margarita Sáder, formerly a partner at Barcelona’s famous Bar Paradiso, which consistently ranks among the top World’s 50 Best Bars. With this venue, Sáder brings her sensory and cosmopolitan vision of fine drinking to the Portuguese capital, blending the tropical spirit of her cocktails with a unique gastronomic flair. The result is a place that evokes the scent of distant islands, just like its origins: vibrantly coloured drinks — featuring infusions of exotic fruit, spices and artisanal spirits — are paired with Caribbean tapas boasting bold, sunny flavours, designed to be shared. Gardenias Lisboa is a small urban garden, an oasis nestled within the city where the flavours, sounds and atmospheres of the tropical world come together, reinterpreted with contemporary elegance.
JNcQUOI Fish on Avenida da Liberdade
In the heart of the elegant Avenida da Liberdade, JNcQUOI Fish evokes the tranquil beauty of the sea, where you can savour (not only) the flavours of the Atlantic, transforming every dish into a celebration of Portugal’s oceanic spirit. JNcQUOI House also boasts an enchanting outdoor terrace, the Quiosque, a traditional Portuguese kiosk reimagined with a gourmet twist. Here, an exclusive seafood Garde Manger comes to life, showcasing the richness and diversity of the Portuguese coast: from shellfish to seaweed, right through to the finest fish, all prepared with the utmost respect for their authentic and natural flavours.
Seen Sky Bar, one of the must-see sights
Seen Sky Bar offers perhaps one of the most beautiful views in Lisbon: a place where the city’s charm blends with a truly lively atmosphere. This new venue places great emphasis on cocktails, the true stars of a sensory experience that, as the name itself suggests, plays on the themes of sin and the act of seeing and being seen.
