Being in an ancient city such as Lisbon will allow for some unique and surprising experiences. After seeing jaw dropping architecture and important landmarks, it is always amazing to be able to simply walk in a place for a meal and be dazed by a royal setting, filled with details and history. Some restaurants in Lisbon took fine dining to another level, by establishing themselves in palaces and classical venues, creating an experience that is nothing short of royal. This is a truly unique experience that only can only be lived in a city like Lisbon, that combines a rich past with and an aptitude for surprising even long-term residents.
Discover Lisbon's Palace Restaurants
Lisbon, a city renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a dining experience that can be truly majestic. Imagine savouring exquisite cuisine within the ornate halls of grand palaces, where gilded ceilings, opulent chandeliers, and centuries-old tapestries transport you to another era. These restaurants, housed in some of the city’s most historic and architectural treasures, offer an unforgettable blend of culinary excellence and regal charm.
From the elegant dining rooms of Pombaline mansions to the enchanting courtyards of Moorish-inspired estates, each venue tells a unique story of Lisbon’s past. Whether you are indulging in modern interpretations of Portuguese classics or sampling international delicacies, these palace restaurants promise more than a meal – they offer a journey through history with every bite.
Palácio Chiado
Right in the heart of the city 18th century architecture blends in with 21st gastronomy, at Palácio Chiado. Formerly called Palácio da Quintela, the property was constructed amid 1781 and had many facets throughout the years: from housing barons and receiving dukes to hosting a museum and an arts institution, this palace has a rich history.
Since 2016, the venue was brought into modernity and is home to the Palácio Chiado Restaurant, a magical setting that can be found after ascending the majestic staircase of the palace. Chef Manuel Bóia signs an author menu that features creations that are both eclectic and democratic.
Palácio Chiado also features rooms that can be booked for private events and the Salla Bar with cocktails and snacks menu, among which are some delicious Portuguese tapas.
Where: Rua do Alecrim 70 – Chiado.
Torel Palace
The Torel Palace is a 5-star boutique hotel that offers a luxurious realm of timeless grace, settled in three historic buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries, plus a newer apartment building. It is located streets away from the prestigious area of Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, a historical part of the Arroios parish, famous for its palaces and aristocratic housing.
Inside its walls lies the Michelin-starred 2Monkeys restaurant, that offers a “fun fine-dining” concept created by chefs Vítor Matos and Guilherme Spalk. Other than the royal setting, the experience also becomes unique because of the restaurant’s open kitchen, allowing for diners to witness the chefs in action. The Duke’s Bar also sets a royal mood to the experience, blending English elegance and cozy charm.
Where: Rua Câmara Pestana, 45 – Campo Mártires da Pátria, Arroios
The One Palácio da Anunciada
Another bundle of 5-star hotel and fine dining Lisbon restaurant, located at a historical palace, is the The One Palácio da Anunciada. The 16th century palace preserves its essence and grandeur featuring original and carefully restored ceilings. Surprisingly enough, this palace sits at a street that parallel to the famous Avenida da Liberdade, right in the heart of Lisbon, and one of the most prestigious areas in town.
In one of the noble rooms of the property, that has been renovated to recover all the rich details of its original decoration, including some hand painted frescoes, lies the Condes de Ericeira Restaurant. The typical Portuguese cuisine is blended with a bold Mediterranean influence for a surprising experience, cantered around fresh local produce.
Where: R. das Portas de Santo Antão 112 / 134 – Avenida da Liberdade region
EmbaiXada
Located at the Ribeiro da Cunha Palace, EmbaiXada offers a unique twist to the concept of palace dining since it is settled at a neo-Arabic palace. The unique decor and architecture are the backdrops of an innovative commercial gallery features Portuguese concept stores and two restaurants: Atalho Real and Gin Lovers Bar & Restaurant.
Located right at the heart of the property, where diners are surrounded by the iconic arches of the architecture, Gin Lovers offers a menu that aims at creating the perfect encounter between gin-based drinks and flavours of the Portuguese cuisine.
Where: Praça do Príncipe Real, 26 - Príncipe Real
Palácio do Grilo
Forget everything you imagine when entering a palace for a dinner party. The 350 years-old Palácio do Grilo takes originality to another level and will create an experience that you are probably not expecting.
The property, that formerly belonged to D. Pedro de Bragança, the Duke of Lafões, has not undergone any major restauration, which allows dinners to see the passing of time at a construction-like, yet cozy atmosphere. Set out to be a kingdom dedicated to dreams, dinner is accompanied by arts performances that will make the whole night ever more surreal and enchanting.
Where: Calçada do Duque de Lafões, 1 – Beato
Tágide
The first restaurant in Lisbon to be awarded a Michelin star, Tágide blends modern atmosphere with traditional architecture details. The contemporary furniture makes an interesting contrast to the classical gods conveyed in blue Portuguese tiles and royal looking chandeliers.
Images: Courtesy of The One Palácio da Anunciada 5*
One of the best dining experiences in Lisbon is to be able to have great food with amazing city views, and Tágide also offers that, whether you choose to have the 7 moments tasting menu or the executive lunch option.
Where: Largo Academia Nacional das Belas Artes, 19 - Chiado
Confeitaria Nacional
After enjoying the best fine dining Lisbon has to offer, how about tasting some pastries that are not only traditional, but also historical. At the famous Praça da Figueira, on the downtown area – or Baixa -, you will find a pastry confectionery that opened its doors in 1829 and remains a landmark in Lisbon ever since.
Confeitaria Nacional has kept its old architectural charm and even though it is not located at a palace, it has an official royal past as it was the supplier to the Portuguese royal house and is, until this day, provider to the Presidency of the Republic.
This pastry shop is also the creator of the King Cake, or Bolo Rei, which nowadays is one of the most traditional tastes of Christmas in Portugal.
Where: Praça da Figueira, 18B – Baixa
How expensive is it to dine at a Palace Restaurant in Lisbon?
In general, the restaurant scene in Lisbon is quite affordable, since the country offers a very reasonable cost of living. Our curated list of palace restaurants will have options for all tastes and budgets. While tasting menus and Michelin stared restaurants will be on a higher pricing level, other will offer a la carte or even executive menus that will make your meal just as enjoyable and yet, more affordable.
Either way, the experience is always worthwhile. Remember that Lisbon’s palace restaurants offer more than just a meal; they provide an enchanting escape into the city’s rich heritage and timeless elegance. From the grandeur of the architecture to the artistry of the cuisine, each visit is a feast for the senses and a journey through history. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a just someone seeking an unforgettable experience, a visit to a palace restaurant in Lisbon is a must. You can dine like royalty while witnessing the past meeting the present in perfect harmony.
