Go Portuguese or Brazilian, but go
€€
Rua Sao Joao da Mata, 88
Santos
+351 213 965 264, website
Mon – Sat, 20h – 24h; Sun, closed
Update August 2018: This restaurant is under new management but it’s still delicious. The menu has expanded to include some really tasty treats.
When the lamp is on outside the door, it’s open. Sites online claim that it’s open Monday through Saturday from 8pm to midnight, but that’s not always the case. Our mantra for making any plans in Lisbon is call ahead, and this is no different — but it’s worth the extra effort to eat here. While the menu is mostly composed of Brazilian food, there’s a delicate nod to traditional Portuguese flavor when it hits your palette. Inside feels like a reclaimed grocery, with old shelving, lovely vaulted ceilings, and exposed ancient brick. The gentle old owner is always at attention to get your (fantastic) caipirinha going while you are busy popping down the green olive and goat cheese croquettes and smearing the crab spread onto your toasts. Seafood, steak, or pork, you won’t be disappointed.
