Boteco Da Fa - Lisboa

New management, new normal with COVID travel. Small non discreet Fado place with an amazing local and family vibe. Food jells well. Needs a bit of an umph. But... read more New management, new normal with COVID travel. Small non discreet Fado place with an amazing local and family vibe. Food jells well. Needs a bit of an umph. But when the customers start jamming in Fado with the musicians. Who am I to complain.. A must for family, couples or with a group of friends.

We came after 9 PM, just to experience FADO. I didn't reserve the seat/what is recommended/ but young waiter found the place for me and my wife anyway. We enjoy... read more We came after 9 PM, just to experience FADO. I didn't reserve the seat/what is recommended/ but young waiter found the place for me and my wife anyway. We enjoy drinks, wine and porto and the atmosphere.

After three recent evenings at Boteca da Fa, I can't say enough about the special ambiance Diogo and his family have created. During the course of each evening,... read more After three recent evenings at Boteca da Fa, I can't say enough about the special ambiance Diogo and his family have created. During the course of each evening, expect to see a variety of singers bring their own nuances to Fado's natural expressiveness. Guitar play (both Portuguese and Classical) was exquisite. The audiences consisted of both regulars and visitors and were duly respectful of the gift of Fado. That contrasts with my experience in Coimbra, where audiences seem indifferent to performances. Diogo is a friendly and accommodating host who made everyone feel welcome. After my first night, I went back whenever I could, either for dinner or after. I was happy to dine at Boteca da Fa and found the seafood dishes (codfish, salmon, octopus, and shrimp) to be my favorites. I suggest making reservations for this gem.

My wife and I were truly lucky to come to Boteco da Fa for a fado experience. To say that it was outstanding would be an understatement. Eleven singers, both pr... read more My wife and I were truly lucky to come to Boteco da Fa for a fado experience. To say that it was outstanding would be an understatement. Eleven singers, both professional and amateur, changed each other, each of them with its own great voice and style. Guitar players were awesome, especially the one who played the Portuguese guitar. The performance started at 21:00, and we were the last to leave at 1:30 after the midnight. During the breaks, it was a great pleasure to go outside and to enjoy the authentic environment – houses, small streets, and the whole town, sea and ships as it seen from an excellent observation point near the church. And in the tavern itself the atmosphere is very special, the host is very friendly – lets you feel at home. The food is simple but tasty. Altogether it was absolutely unforgettable!

If you want to see Fado in Lisbon, this is the ONLY place you should go. It’s a family owned restaurant (mother son) who are welcoming, hard-working, genuine pe... read more If you want to see Fado in Lisbon, this is the ONLY place you should go. It’s a family owned restaurant (mother son) who are welcoming, hard-working, genuine people. The Fado was incredible and truly captivating and the ambiance perfect for live music. Even though I was one of only 3 customers on a Tuesday in February, we were not rushed out early. It was midnight before I knew it, because when you’re having fun, times flies! A truly authentic experience a great way to spend an evening in Lisbon!