Lisbon continues to assert itself on the gastronomic map of Europe and despite the difficulties being experienced by the sector, restaurants continue to open. SIC went to meet three.
In the historic center of Lisbon, in the heart of Portas de Santo Antão, in a historic building, Café de São Bento was born, inspired by the Marrare cafés of the late 18th century and also the Bristol Club, from the 20s and 30s.
“We brought everything that the original Café de São Bento has. We brought new additions to the starters, the clams with Bolhão Pato, fish from the garden, also some new cuts… a sirloin steak with Madeira sauce and mushrooms. (…) Obviously the iconic and famous steak is here, better than ever”, reveals businessman Miguel Garcia.
One recipe over 40 years old and which can be tasted at Café de São Bento, in downtown Lisbon. The restaurant can accommodate up to 70 people, is adjacent to the 1904 Benfica Hotel, and has extended opening hours on match days.
Also in the capital, after two decades in renowned places and with extensive experience, chef Vasco Lello took the plunge on his first solo project. THE Cloudy “It’s somewhere between a more traditional restaurant and a restaurant with some innovation”, he explains.
Opened in April, Turvo was born in unclear times for the sector, but the balance is stable and, therefore, the new year brings news.
“The format will open from 5pm, a more snack-friendly version from March, when there are more hours of sunshine. (…) We’re going to have some events here at Turvo with guest chefs. There’s a lot of quality, a lot of new projects with quality.”
We end this itinerary for new things in Lisbon’s restaurants with a trip. THE After Dark is an Izakaya with much more than sushi.
“We always suggest the tasting menu to understand our concept. We have 7 to 10 moments”, explains chef Matheus Martins.
One exclusive and intimate space with just 11 seats. Every detail is guided by the vision of Chef Matheus Martins, who grew up near the Japanese community in São Paulo, the largest outside of Japan.
If you are in Lisbon, in Príncipe Real, you can experience an end of the day in Tokyo.
