From Chiado to Candlelight: The Essence of Lisbon’s Coffee Culture

There is nothing better than the smell of coffee on a crisp morning.  Even better a leisurely coffee to start the day with family and friends.  This describes the vibrant and thriving coffee culture in Lisbon.  In Lisbon, coffee is more than a drink in a travel mug, while commuting to work.  It is a social morning ritual; it is about connection to community and Portugal’s rich heritage and culture.   

 Brazilian coffee first arrived in Lisbon in the late seventeenth century through Portuguese colonial trade networks.  The earliest cafes started to appear in the 18th and 19th centuries and were modeled after Parisian and Viennese coffeehouses.  These cafes became a place for intellectuals and writers to discuss ideas, read newspapers and socialize and so the coffee culture became embedded in Lisbon. 

 If you were to go into a café today and order ‘um cafe’, you will get a small, strong espresso known as a ‘bica’.  Quite often, you will see locals standing at a cafe bar, enjoying a bica and catching up with each other.  Other popular coffees are a creamy meia de leite or a frothy galao.  Every cup reflects Lisbon’s love affair with coffee. 

 If you are on your way to Lisbon, and want to experience the coffee culture, then pay a visit to A Brasileira, which is one of the most famous Lisbon cafes.  It opened in 1905 and evokes an elegant old-world charm.  Pastelaria Suíça is an icon in the downtown area, popular with every generation of Lisbon residents and visitors as it has an incredible selection of Portuguese pastries.  It closed in 2018 and re-opened in 2024 at its new location Praça da Figueira in downtown Lisbon. The best part is that their prices are reflective of 2018 so you can indulge in their tradition but without the bite of inflation! Café Nicola in Rossio Square blends history and sophistication.  Marble interiors and a traditional Portuguese menu right in the city centre.  And finally, Pastelaria Versailles on Avenida da Republica.  Its décor is Art Noveau and reflecting the style of the belle epoque.    

 If you are between trips or reminiscing about Lisbon, the good news is Casa Betina just launched Lisbon Café.  A rich, comforting blend that transports you to a small café in Portugal — the scent of freshly brewed espresso mingling with the warmth of roasted beans and a hint of sweet pastries in the air. Light this candle and let the aroma take you back to slow mornings and café chatter by the cobblestone streets. For the full experience, pair it with Pastel de Nata — the delicate sweetness of Portugal’s beloved custard tart. The perfect harmony of coffee and dessert, just like a morning in Lisbon.