Globetrotting Gal

If you’re on vacation in Lisbon, you’re bound to end up in Sao Bento – one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods – at some point. Sao Bento is one of the oldest neighborhoods, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, trolley cars, and, well, brunch. So much brunch. As a new resident of the area, I’d like to share with you my list of must-eat-at restaurants, cafes, and bakeries! Enjoy.

#1. Hello, Kristoff

Hello, Kristoff is a tiny little restaurant/ cafe but perfect for a morning coffee or matcha latte. Every evening when I walk by, I’m intoxicated by the smell of fresh cookies baking. The staff is friendly and the toasties are on point. You might want to avoid coming on the weekend, as the lines can get a little long. Nice as a takeaway option, as well.

#2. Ceres Boulangerie

This French-style bakery is so good you’ll toss your self-imposed “no gluten” rules right out the window (er, ah, at least I did)! Croissants as buttery and flakey as any you’ll find in Paris. Tarte au frais to die for. Delicious quiche and coffee for your brunch-on-the-go. Best of all, it’s pretty cheap for this trendy ‘hood.

#3. Sekai Sushi Bar

A lot of the sushi bars in Lisbon play it safe (Philly roll, anyone?). Sekai is a sushi bar for people who love good sushi and trust the chef to create an artistic sampling to satisfy their appetites. The vibe inside is swank, so make a reservation and change out of your shorts ;). My recommendation: Tartar atún and the wakame salad.

4. Bistro Edelweiss

This Swiss restaurant is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s deceptively spacious on the inside and is only open for dinner (from 5pm). When you can’t get a table down on the busy Green Street, this place is worth the 5-minute climb uphill. Authentic fondu and raclette, as well as other hearty items you’d expect to find in Switzerland.

The decor at Bistro Edelweiss makes you feel like you are at grandma’s house. Next to the bar is a wooden ladder leading up to a tiny attic. And the walls are lined with an odd collection of antiques. Be sure to sneak a peek at the bathroom art. It’s weird and I love it.

5. Conde

This list would be remiss without an authentic Portuguese restaurant. Sadly, gentrification has driven many of them out of Sao Bento. But at Conde, you can get your favorite prato do dia (dish of the day) for about 10 euros or less. That usually consists of 1 meat dish plus rice or french fries and a small salad. Drink and coffee included. Bonus, it’s also a pastry shop! Come early (around noon) to get a table for lunch, as it gets packed. You will likely be one of the only foreigners here, as it’s still a favorite for locals.

Final Thoughts

You won’t run out of options for food and drink around Sao Bento, as indulgence is a favorite pastime here! If you’re in-between meals, be sure to check out the view from Miradoura de São Pedro de Alcântra, in Principe Real, just up the hill from Sao Bento. Happy travels!