There are lots of rooftop bars all over Lisbon which really come into their own during the summer. Here are four I’ve been to which as usual you can find on my map.
Java Rooftop, 30 Praça Dom Luís I, letsumai.com
This first place is located in Praça Dom Luís overlooking the Time Out market. You have to walk through a hotel reception to the courtyard out back and take the lift to the top floor. My old friend Luke Una happened to be in town for a DJing gig and the local promoter brought us here for a drink and a snack.
There are lots of tables and a great view, but we were particularly blown away by the amazing roast octopus tacos being served by a hole-in-the-wall outfit called Paco’s Tacos.
They were so good that I went back a second time for more! Even after two trips to Mexico, they’re still some of the best I’ve ever eaten.
Rossio Gastrobar, 118 Rua 1º de Dezembro, www.rossiogastrobar.com
This bar is on the seventh floor of the Altis Avenida Hotel opposite Rossio station. It has one of the best panoramic views in the city with Rossio square, the battlements of São Jorge Castle and the river all being visible. It has an Art Deco-style interior with lots of comfortable seating and there’s an interesting menu which includes a katsu sandwich. There is sometimes a DJ but the atmosphere was very chilled when I went.
For a more full on party atmosphere you could try this place…
Rooftop Bar at Hotel Mundial, Praça Martim Moniz, www.phchotels.pt
Great panoramic views from the ninth floor again, but this spot is best known for it’s Sunset Parties with resident DJs and live jazz throughout the summer. It was a bit too loud for my mood when I went but it’s definitely a happening spot with a relaxed atmosphere.
Chapitô à Mesa, 7 Costa do Castelo, chapito.org
This is a restaurant with, in my experience, average food but a spectacular vista. It’s run by Chapitô, a non-profit organisation that promotes the development of young people through the performing arts, so there may well be a show on in the courtyard while you’re there. It’s very popular so it’s best to go early afternoon to snag an outdoor table on the terrace with an unobstructed view.
See my next post for another ‘must try’, ginjinha bars…