Lisbon has some cafés and pastry shops that are part of the city’s history.
Some were meeting places for writers, artists and politicians. Others became famous for coffee, pastries or for keeping their old atmosphere.
Here are 5 historic places that are still open today.
1. Martinho da Arcada, 1782
Located in Praça do Comércio, Martinho da Arcada is considered the oldest café in Lisbon.
It was one of Fernando Pessoa’s favourite places, and his old table is still kept there.
2. Café Nicola, 1787
Café Nicola started as Botequim do Nicola, founded by the Italian Nicola Breteiro.
It became a meeting place for writers and artists, especially linked to the poet Bocage. The current Art Deco look came later, in the 20th century.
3. Confeitaria Nacional, 1829
Opened in Praça da Figueira in 1829, Confeitaria Nacional is one of Lisbon’s most important pastry shops.
It became famous for traditional Portuguese sweets and is strongly linked to Bolo Rei, especially during Christmas.
4. Pastelaria Benard, 1868
Founded in 1868, Benard is one of the classic cafés of Chiado.
It is known for its old tea room atmosphere, central location on Rua Garrett and its famous croissants.
5. A Brasileira, 1905
Opened in Chiado in 1905, A Brasileira helped introduce Brazilian coffee to Lisbon.
It later became one of the city’s most famous meeting points for artists and writers. Today, many visitors stop there because of the Fernando Pessoa statue outside.
This places are part of Lisbon’s cultural memory, and they are still easy to visit during a walk through Baixa, Chiado or Praça do Comércio.
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