“Melodies and Gastronomy: Mesa de Frades – A Fusion of Dinner and Fado in Lisbon’s Enchanting Nightscape”

🎵 My evening at Mesa de Frades in Lisbon was an extraordinary blend of cultural immersion and culinary delight. As a Fado enthusiast, the prospect of dining in a former chapel adorned with 18th-century tiles, while listening to renowned and emerging Fado artists, was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. The best dinner and fado lisbon restaurant, steeped in history and art, set the stage for a memorable night.

🍴 Starting with the appetizers, I was presented with a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes. The Tuna Pâté was a delightful beginning, light yet flavorful. The ‘Peixinhos da Horta’ – deep-fried green beans – were a crunchy treat, and the Olives with Tibornada offered a burst of Mediterranean flavors. However, the standout for me was the Goat Cheese Puff Pastry with Honey and Olive Crush – a perfect blend of sweet and savory.

🍽️ For the main course, I was torn between the meat and fish options but eventually settled on the Mesa de Frades Codfish. This dish, a concoction of grain puree, sweaty spinach, flaked cod, corn, and almond bread baked in the oven, was a revelation. The cod was cooked to perfection, flaky and tender, and the combination of textures and flavors in the dish was superb.

🍰 Choosing a dessert was a challenge, as each option sounded more tempting than the last. I opted for the ‘Encharcada’ from Santa Clara’s Convent, a traditional Portuguese sweet dish. It was rich and satisfying, a perfect end to the meal. The Chocolate Mousse with Macaroon Topping, sugar-free and suitable for diabetics, caught my eye for a future visit.

🍷 The drink selection complemented the meal wonderfully. I chose a wine from their curated list, which enhanced the flavors of the dishes. The attentive and knowledgeable staff were more than happy to assist in pairing the perfect wine with my meal choices.

🎶 The highlight of the evening, of course, was the Fado performance. Artists like João Braga, Beatriz Felício, and Tânia Oleiro took turns enchanting the diners with their soulful renditions of traditional Fado. The acoustics of the chapel, combined with the skill of the musicians, made for an ethereal experience. It was a privilege to witness the performances by such talented artists in such an intimate setting.

The Best Dinner and Fado Lisbon Restaurant

🎸 The instrumental accompaniment by the Portuguese and Fado guitars, along with the bass guitar, added depth to the performance. Each strum resonated within the walls of the chapel, creating a mesmerizing auditory experience. The musicians, including Pedro de Castro and Jaime Santos, played with such passion that it was impossible not to be moved by the music.

💰 At 65€ per person, the experience at Mesa de Frades felt worth every cent. The combination of exquisite food, exceptional service, and extraordinary Fado performances offered a glimpse into the soul of Lisbon.

For anyone looking to immerse themselves in the authentic culture of Lisbon, Mesa de Frades is a must-visit destination. The atmosphere, the food, the music, and the overall experience are something I will cherish and recommend to anyone visiting Lisbon.