What follows is a round-up of the restaurants we went to in Lisbon, all of which I’d recommend for different reasons. So if in Lisbon, here are some ideas on where to eat.

For a light lunch in a subtly chic environment, Royale Café (Largo Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro 29) has lovely salads, soups and sandwiches, and a nice selection of teas.

For city views, bohemian atmosphere and tasty tapas, check out Chapitô (Rua Costa do Castelo 1–7), a multipurpose space with a circus school and theater, a cafe-bar and a restaurant. Located near the castle in Alfama, it has a great terrace as its highlight.

For a hearty traditional Portuguese meal, 1 de Maio (Rua da Atalaia 8; phone 021.342.6840) in a basement at the bottom of Bairro Alto is a great choice. In addition to fantastic and filling mainstays, it stars a fabulously theatrical waiter (he seems to be a fixture) who will add a touch of drama to your meal.

To sample African dishes and live music in a no-frills environment, head to En’Clave (Rua do Sol ao Rato 71A; 021.388.8738). Try cachupa, a delicious bean and meat stew from Cabo Verde; kalulú, a fish stew from São Tomé and Príncipe; or cafriela, Guinea Bissau-style chicken.

Photo “Sunstet at Lisboa” by Fr Antunes on Flickr

Visit everthenomad.com for more by Anja Mutic

The Wild Dreamers Association (the English translation for the name of this place) is a late hour bar. It’s situated in the vicinity of the busiest streets of Bairro Alto, but it goes untouched by the growing noise and continuous confusion of the district.

It’s based in a basement decorated with books, hookahs, and artifacts that make the place resemble the British Museum. One can spend hours talking while tasting national beer and listening to good music.

A place to visit and stay until late hours with an excellent atmosphere and extremely pleasant service from Mr Vítor.

Curiosities: You can bring your music and play it here. Also there’s always popcorn with chips for free and a cigarettes package available, just ask for it!

Photo by Rafael Vieira

By Rafael Vieira, from SpottedbyLocals.com/lisbon
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