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Dining in Lisbon is not something any foodie should miss-out on during their trip to the region. There are incredible culinary establishments on every corner, and one of them happens to be in the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel Ritz.
Varanda, as it’s known, is a quiet and elegant room staffed to the brim with the most attentive staff you might ever meet. A nod to the riches of Portuguese dining and ingredients, Varanda aims to deliver both traditional and local culinary delights, coupled with excellent service.
On a recent visit, I was sat in the rear of the room, a spacious area with tables lit softly with candlelight overlooking Eduardo VII Park. The restaurant’s manager tended to my table throughout the evening. I had met him a year prior to this visit and he remembered me right away, greeting me with a smile and firm handshake. He handed me a menu and gave me his recommendations of what to choose for the main course.
Pascal Meynard, the chef, is particularly good with dishes from the north of the country. I opted for roasted John Dory, followed by seafood rice and an orange, citrus fantasy for dessert. Each dish was delicious and was paired with Portuguese wines – some of the best in the world, in my opinion.
Varanda is an amazing choice in Lisbon if you’re interested in an evening of traditional Portuguese food and beautiful surroundings. It remains, after each visit, one of my favorites in this beautiful city.
