Hidden Gems

Lisbon's Best Kept Secrets

Uncover a few of Portugals hidden gems, from secret Chinese eateries tucked behind unmarked doors to a circus-themed restaurant with stunning views. Step into a hidden garden oasis where cocktails and greenery create a tranquil escape.

Photos and words by Joy Grant

Chinês Clandestinos

Chinese Lanterns Hang by the Window, Guiding Patrons to the Restaurant

Chinês clandestinos, also known as secret Chinese restaurants, can be found throughout Lisbon especially if you know what you’re looking for and are willing to have a little adventure. These restaurants are usually family-run and unlicensed to avoid business taxes. While many clandestinos were either forced to be shut down or become legitimate (and brought up to health code) during 2020, a few are still operating under the radar. They reside in residential buildings with no large signs or branding other than a Chinese lantern hanging in the window. The one I visited was on a dark side street in Mouraria with a large creaky blue door that opened to a pitch-black apartment entryway. If I hadn’t been with a group I trusted, I would have turned around and found a less suspicious well-lit restaurant. Once we trekked out of the darkness and up the stairs to a door with more lanterns we were welcomed into an apartment that smelled better than any restaurant. Ginger, lemon grass, and toasted sesame aroma filled the air. But was the food worth the adventure?

Crispy Duck, Dumplings, and Hot and Sour Soup Served on an Assortment of Mismatched Plates

The dining room was set with a large table and we were seated, in what was previously a bedroom, next to a table of Danish students. As we settled into our seats it became even more apparent that we were in what was once someone’s home from the mismatched place settings to the art on the wall. This dining experience felt like visiting a friend’s family. The owner took my group’s order and brought us jasmine tea while we waited. 

Before long, pork dumplings, sweet and sour soup, and crispy duck sat before us. The dumplings were fried perfectly golden, and the soup was savory with just the right amount of spice to help with the cold I was battling. But the pièce de résistance was the duck. Crispy, tender, and seasoned to perfection, each bite collapsed into rich juicy pieces. Who knew that something as simple as a lantern in a window could lead to food that I’d be dreaming of more than 5,000 miles away? I guess you could say the journey was worth it.

The Secret Garden LX

Picture yourself wandering around Portugal’s ancient streets and stumbling across Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, a famous viewpoint overlooking one of the most beautiful vistas in Lisbon. The city lights up at night and you spot the infamous 25 de Abril Bridge’s outline as it sparkles in the distance. Once you take your pictures and turn to head out you hear music playing. You follow the sound down a few steps and around a corner before you enter The Secret Garden LX, a welcoming paradise. 

The beautiful view from before can now be enjoyed from your seat with a drink in your hand and surrounded by friendly faces. You can sit at a table by the front to be immersed in the hustle and bustle or steal a corner table near the back of the terrace if you want to enjoy an intimate moment alone.

As the name suggests, this bar is multifunctional and surrounded by lush green plants. Grab breakfast and coffee in the morning or a stronger drink in the evening. Enjoy live music, a DJ set, or check out beautiful art crafted by one of the owners. I was lucky enough to be there on a night with a jam session. Different musicians gathered with their instruments while singers riffed off of each other creating an electric energy in the space. The Secret Garden has something for everyone and is sure to be one of the highlights of your visit. 

A Sign for Secret Garden LX Against A Sweeping View of Lisbon’s Cityscape
Outdoor Seating Surrounded by Greenery

Artwork by the Secret Garden LX’s Co-owner Marcio Bahia, A Crowd Dancing to Live Music,  Musicians Having a Jam Session

Chapitô a Mesa

If you ask someone in Portugal what Chapitô a Mesa is, you’ll likely receive a variety of answers. For some, it’s a restaurant famous for its stunning panoramic views of Lisbon. For others, it’s a non-profit that supports at-risk youth through circus training and the arts. For me, it’s where I first tried vinho verde and experienced the charm of live samba music.  

Whatever brings you to Chapitô, one thing’s for certain: the atmosphere is electric and unforgettable. The venue is split into two levels: a restaurant and a circus-inspired tented terrace on the main floor and a bar with an entertainment space downstairs. Each space has its own personality and unique menus. They often host jam sessions and student performances. When my friends and I arrived, we were immediately drawn to the sound of instruments coming from downstairs, excited to hear good music

Descending the spiral staircase that led to the lower level, we were welcomed into a vibrant scene. An energetic crowd surrounded musicians seated in a circle. Tambourines and guitars accompanied passionate vocalists as they sang samba classics, allowing the crowd to sing along. The space was full, leaving most of us to stand; but somehow it still felt intimate. A blend of tourists and locals made it a dynamic experience. You could tell that this was the first time many of us had heard this style of music, while others appeared to revel in lyrics that held deeper meaning for them. 

Looking around it was clear that Chapitô is everything people describe it as and more; it’s an homage to Lisbon’s creative spirit. From the enchanting music to the bustling crowd, the entire experience left me more connected to Lisbon’s lure. If you find yourself in Lisbon, don’t miss the chance to discover what Chapitô means to you.