Why Lisbon?
Lisbon, the city of seven hills
The legend has it that Lisbon was named Olissipo by the Romans, for its resemblance to the Roman capital. Just like Rome, Lisbon began its life as a humble settlement nestled among seven hills. However, it wasn't until the 17th century, in the writing of Frey Nicolao d'Oliveira, that Lisbon came to be called 'a cidade das sete colinas' - the city of seven hills.
You can still see traces of ancient Lisbon today. Beyond the array of shops with international brands, peaceful streetside cafes selling the iconic pastel de nata and world class restaurants with a variety of global cuisine, you can still wander the seven hills and see the city from above, taking in the rolling terracotta rooftops, the whitewashed walls and on the horizon, the soft blue sea.
Cafes & Restaurants
My favorite cafés and restaurants in Lisbon
Café Sao Bento
This old-school restaurant sticks to what it does best.
Address:
R. de São Bento 212, 1200-821
What I like about it
with an almost unchanged and quite short menu, taking pride in its excellent steaks and wine selection. The “Café de São Bento” steak is known city-wide;
Clara Clara Café
Everyone's favorite neighborhood cafe with a variety of breakfast and brunch options.
Address:
Botto Machado Garden, 1100-471
What I like about it
Very good place to go in the afternoon to relax. I ordered one empada, one homemade ice tee and one sandwich with chèvre cheese and ham. It's incredible, I loved it. And as a bonus you have one of the most beautiful views of Lisbon.
Chiado Caffe
Petite cafe & bakery featuring a selection of sweet & savory Portuguese pastries.
Address:
Rua do Loreto 45 47, 1200-471
What I like about it
Inspired by the "poetry of the city," Chiado Caffe is a nondescript shop on Rua do Loreto, its proximity to city-center yielding plentiful foot traffic including mostly locals who stop in early for Coffee and Pastry.