🍽️ When you’re in Portugal, and in search of a best place to eat in lisbon that combines the warmth of Portuguese cuisine with global influences, look no further than “Cantinho do Avillez.” This friendly and relaxed establishment, part of the culinary empire created by renowned chef José Avillez, is a delightful haven for food enthusiasts. Just like its sibling counterpart, Cantinho de Lisboa, it offers a delectable menu inspired by Portugal’s cooking traditions and seasoned with international influences.
🍲 The menu at Cantinho do Avillez offered an intriguing mix of traditional Portuguese dishes and contemporary cuisine. For my starter, I chose the ‘Gambas com alho e malagueta’ (Prawns with garlic and malagueta chili). The prawns were cooked perfectly, and the spicy kick of the chili was balanced beautifully with the mellow garlic. The ‘Ovo BT com chouriço e pão frito’ (LT egg with chorizo and fried bread) was another standout dish, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
🍽️ For the main course, the ‘Pastéis de bacalhau com arroz de tomate’ (Codfish cakes with tomato rice) was my choice. The codfish cakes were flavorful and tender, and the tomato rice was a perfect accompaniment, bringing a comforting touch to the dish. The ‘Frango thai com legumes salteados e arroz’ (Thai chicken with sautéed vegetables and rice) was another excellent option, showcasing the restaurant’s ability to blend international flavors with local ingredients.
🥗 The vegetarian option, ‘Legumes salteados com grão de bico, molho de caril verde e ervas frescas’ (Sautéed vegetables with chickpeas, green curry sauce, and fresh herbs), was a delightful surprise. The dish was aromatic and flavorful, with the green curry sauce providing a delicious depth to the vegetables and chickpeas.
🍝 For pasta lovers, the ‘Tagliatelle com ragú e salvia’ (Tagliatelle with ragout and sage) was a must-try. The pasta was cooked al dente, and the ragout was rich and savory, with the sage adding a subtle herby note. The ‘Croquetes com arroz de grelos’ (Croquettes with rapini rice) was a unique dish, combining the crispiness of the croquettes with the earthiness of the rapini rice.
🍰 For dessert, the ‘Bolo de chocolate à CANTINHO com sorvete de morango’ (CANTINHO’S chocolate cake with strawberry sorbet) was a highlight. The chocolate cake was rich and moist, and the strawberry sorbet provided a refreshing contrast. The ‘Leite-creme de laranja e baunilha’ (Vanilla and orange crème brûlée) was another excellent choice, with the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus.
🍷 To accompany my meal, I opted for a selection from their wine list, which featured a range of excellent local and international wines. The staff were knowledgeable and helped me choose a wine that complemented my meal beautifully.
🌿 The overall atmosphere of Cantinho do Avillez was one of relaxed sophistication. The décor was elegant yet unpretentious, creating an environment that was perfect for both casual lunches and special dinners. The service was impeccable – attentive, friendly, and professional it’s the best place to eat in lisbon.
Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, meat, pasta, or vegetarian dishes, Cantinho do Avillez caters to all palates with its diverse and delicious menu and is definitely worth your while!
| Monday | 12:30–3 pm, 7–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 12:30–3 pm, 7–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 12:30–3 pm, 7–11 pm |
| Thursday | 12:30–3 pm, 7–11 pm |
| Friday | 12:30–3 pm, 7–11 pm |
| Saturday | 12:30–11 pm |
| Sunday | 12:30–11 pm |
