A Concierge’s Guide to Lisbon
Luis Miguel, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz, Lisbon
When my friends are in town, I take them for a drink at…
Topo Chiado (Terraços do Carmo; +351 21 342 0626) in the Bairro Alto neighbourhood. It’s an open-air bar behind the Convento do Carmo ruins so it’s a beautiful setting and has staggering views of Lisbon’s rooftops. Just arriving there takes your breath away – you feel like you’re inside a painting.
The restaurant that really shows off Lisbon is…
Belcanto, one of two in the city with two Michelin stars. Chef José Avillez is a genius and the service is excellent. If you go there often, they’ll not only remember you but also the dish you had. If you order it again, they’ll make it slightly different, just to surprise you.
For a business meeting, I book a table at…
Almada Negreiros Lounge, right here at the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon. It’s quiet, glamorous and atmospheric and guests can order food and wine from the Ritz Bar and O Japonés restaurant.
For a caffeine fix, make your way to…
Fábrica Coffee Roasters. It buys Arabica beans from countries like Brazil and Kenya and roasts them on site. The best market experience is… Feira da Ladra in Campo de Santa Clara is one of the oldest flea markets in Lisbon, dating back to the 13th century. It’s a great place to feel the vibe of the city, buy some trinkets and wander through the colourful chaos.
If you want to buy a memento…
A Vida Portuguesa is a must-visit. Run by journalist Catarina Portas, it specialises in nostalgic Portuguese arts and crafts. There are hundreds of beautiful things for sale, from filigree jewellery to traditional woollen blankets from Alentejo.
The best daytrip out of Lisbon is to…
Sintra, a gorgeous little town renowned for historic castles and palaces. You could also head to Cascais, a beautiful coastal town with great beaches and a lively marina.
