Duro (Santos)
A contemporary and stylish brasserie serving classic Portuguese dishes with Spanish and French influences. Located on Rua do Boqueirão Duro in Santos (from which it takes its name), this is the latest opening from the team behind Sem Vergonha and Vivant. The European-styled brasserie – with large windows, high ceilings and elegant interiors – serves up locally sourced, modern Portuguese cuisine with a twist. Standouts include Ovos Rotos with carabineiro, veal tartare prepared table-side, crispy suckling pig belly, and Arroz de Forno with sea bass and prawns. The thoughtfully curated wine list is perfect for pairing – whether enjoyed at the sleek counter bar, in the elegant dining space, or in the private dining room, which seats up to 12 guests. This place is an ideal setting for intimate dinners to large celebrations as well as for cocktails and on Sundays they serve the traditional Portuguese dish “Cozido à Portuguesa” for lunch. Open for lunch and dinner daily – except Mondays.
Taberna Sal Grosso (São Bento)
A modest yet charming Portuguese eatery located just across from Parliament, this is the group’s newest addition. Their original restaurant, in Aflama, has become one of Lisbon’s most sought-after reservations – often requiring bookings months in advance. Riding the wave of the city’s modern tavern revival, Taberna Sal Gross offers playful, contemporary twists on traditional dishes that are both affordable and full of character. Dishes are served sharing-style and highlights from the handwritten menu include beef cheeks, pork belly with broad beans, aubergine with smoked yogurt, and garlic prawns. With its pared-back dining room, the focus stays firmly on the food – best enjoyed with a glass of local Portuguese wine and the unfussy charm of a traditional tasca.
Bar Alimentar (Principe Real)
This stylish neo-bistro, with an Italian accented twist, is the result of a dynamic collaboration between chef João Magalhães Correia of popular Tricky’s and the exceptional bar crew from Imprensa – and it absolutely lives up to the buzz. The simply adorned, stripped back and candle-lit dining room serves as a minimalist setting for a menu of vibey, inventive and playful small plates. Portuguese ingredients are elevated with Italian-influenced flavours – think whipped cod with caramelised onion cannoli and fava bean vignarola with stracciatella. The cocktails and service are a draw in their own right – rivalling some of Lisbon’s best haunts.
Bonança (Belém)
Housed in the oldest nautical club in Portugal – on the riverside in Belem – this striking restaurant impresses with its dramatic design, seamlessly blending maritime heritage with modern elegance. There’s the imposing mural, charming nautical references throughout the storied space with the concept drawing inspiration from Vasco da Gama’s legendary voyage to India. The menu celebrates the richness of the sea and the best of seasonal produce, with an emphasis on bold, global flavours. Think red shrimp carpaccio topped with trout roe and a bright yuzu kosho vinaigrette, or the daily catch served with a fragrant green curry sauce and freshly baked naan. Drawing inspiration from across continents, the kitchen incorporates spices and techniques from around the world, all while staying rooted in Portugal’s deep culinary traditions.
