In Lisbon, there is only one place where you can truly savor a menu entirely cooked over flames – Fogo Restaurant by Chef Alexandre Silva. This renowned establishment embodies the essence of traditional Portuguese cooking, using the technique of open flames to craft dishes that are inspired by our rich culinary heritage.

A Culinary Adventure

As we set foot into Fogo Restaurant, located on Avenida Elias Garcia 57A, near Campo Pequeno, we were immediately captivated by its striking entrance. A massive charcoal-colored wall welcomed us, leaving us curious about the wonders hidden beyond its dark facade. Though we had seen pictures of the restaurant before, witnessing it in person was truly awe-inspiring.

Once through the impressive glass and steel door, we found ourselves in a small waiting area with an incredible bar. There, the master mixologist, João Bruno, prepared some of the most creative cocktails we had ever tasted. Blending bar and culinary techniques, the drinks exuded aromatic allure, teasing our senses.

The heart of Fogo Restaurant was no ordinary kitchen; it was a captivating space where every dish was prepared and cooked atop live embers. The warmth from the glowing coals filled the room, accompanied by the delightful scents reminiscent of cooking over a traditional hearth. Surprisingly, the temperature was just right, and the smells didn’t linger on our clothes.

The restaurant’s unique ceiling design added to the spectacular ambiance. The lighting fixtures resembled glowing embers, bathing the dining area in a pleasant, golden glow, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for lunch or dinner.

An Exquisite Gastronomic Experience

Seated close to the kitchen counter, we observed Chef Alexandre Silva orchestrating the culinary experience with grace and skill. The menu at Fogo Restaurant was an enticing array of starters and main courses, showcasing a fusion of land and sea flavors.

For starters, we were presented with an abundant selection that seemed endless. From Grilled Oysters to Spider Crab with Garlic Butter, a mix of delectable treats, served with homemade butter, olive oil, pickles, and pork rillette, accompanied by wood-fired sourdough bread, graced our table.

However, the true highlight was yet to come. The chef surprised us with a Beef Tartare with Smoked Egg Yolk and Requeijão (a creamy cheese), Grilled White Shrimp from Algarve, and an incredibly divine yet straightforward dish of Clams, each one kissed by the unmistakable flavors of the embers.

Moving on to the main course, we were presented with a generous portion of Grilled Turbot with Garlic and Butter Sauce, artistically divine and leaving us craving for more. But the true revelation was the chef’s famous “Arroz de Forno” (Oven-Baked Rice), a dish we had heard about but never imagined would be so scrumptious – we scraped the pan until not a single grain of rice remained. To end our extraordinary culinary journey, we explored the dessert offerings at Fogo Restaurant. Among the delightful options, the chef chose the iconic “Mil Folhas” (Mille-Feuille), a delicately layered pastry with a symphony of flavors and aromas. It was an engineering marvel of patisserie that left us utterly enchanted. Throughout the two-hour experience, the cocktails remained our loyal companions. The “Das Cinzas” cocktail on the right was ingeniously crafted to captivate even the most discerning cocktail critic. On the left, a sweet pineapple-infused concoction provided a refreshing, smooth elixir. Together, they complemented our culinary journey splendidly.

A Lasting Memory

Our dining experience at Fogo Restaurant will forever remain etched in our memories as one of the most incredible gastronomic adventures we have ever had. We extend heartfelt thanks to Chef Alexandre Silva and the entire staff, whose warm hospitality made us feel truly at home.  If you plan to visit, we recommend you go with plenty of time and a hearty appetite, relishing the opportunity to taste as much as you can, as securing a table in this prestigious restaurant might not come easily. Fogo Restaurant truly captures the essence of Portugal’s culinary heritage, crafting an unforgettable experience for all who embark on this enchanting journey.