A classy cocktail bar inspired by South American flavors
€€
R. Alexandre Herculano 61B, 1250-012 Lisboa | Largo do Rato
Thur – Mon, 17h00 – 01h00
The words “a twist on a classic” rarely precede a good drink, but the newly-opened
Gardenias Lisboa in Largo do Rato is doing it right.
They’re blending the botanicals of South America into a range of cocktail staples, including a Caribbean negroni with a rum base, a pandan and white truffle old fashioned, and a smoky cucumber margarita that proved an Atlas favourite.
The drinks are soon to be joined by Caribbean-inspired tapas, which, from the arepas we tasted, will be every bit as good as their cocktails.
The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, offering you solid guidance on which drink to choose without being pushy.
The only drawback is the location — what they describe as “a sun-drenched terrace” is, in fact, a raised esplanade that borders a six-lane road.
Not too bad if you don’t mind urban vibes, but a few tall plants and a bit of panelling would probably improve things.
It’s rare for a new bar to offer an original concept and deliver it well, but Gardenias Lisboa is doing just that.
If they stay the course, they’re sure to become a go-to cocktail spot in this nook of the city.
