ÀCosta by Olivier Lisboa — Restaurant in Lisbon

Àcosta is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Lisbon, offering a dining experience that beautifully marries traditional Portuguese flavors with modern culinary creativity. From the moment you step inside, the restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable meal. The decor is a blend of contemporary elegance with rustic touches, creating a cozy yet refined ambiance.

The menu at Àcosta is a testament to the richness of Portuguese cuisine, featuring a range of dishes that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The seafood is undoubtedly the star of the show, with dishes like octopus à lagareiro and grilled sardines standing out for their freshness and expertly balanced flavors. Each plate is presented with artistic flair, making the dining experience as visually pleasing as it is delicious.

The wine list is extensive, with a thoughtful selection of Portuguese wines that perfectly complement the menu. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, offering excellent recommendations and ensuring that every guest feels well taken care of.

One of the highlights of dining at Àcosta is the dessert selection. The pastéis de nata is a must-try, offering a delightful twist on the classic Portuguese custard tart. Each bite is a perfect balance of crispy pastry and creamy custard, ending the meal on a high note.

Overall, Àcosta delivers an exceptional dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the best of Lisbon's culinary scene. The combination of top-notch service, a warm atmosphere, and outstanding food makes Àcosta a standout choice...

In the game of experience, appearances often mask reality. Reviews can seduce the unwary or signal hidden value to the discerning eye. With a calculated blend of curiosity and skepticism, I made the decision to reserve a table for my family. It was, in essence, a measured risk — a small wager placed on reputation. What we discovered was not illusion, but rare substance: a restaurant that not only met the praise it had garnered, but transcended it through the power of detail, craft, and quiet mastery.

From the very first course, the kitchen’s command of its heritage was undeniable. We ordered across the menu — each dish a deliberate move to expose any weakness or imbalance. None emerged. Instead, we were met with waves of complexity: the brine of the sea folded delicately into grilled octopus, the earthy richness of slow-cooked meats, the citrus-laced brightness of fresh herbs — each element in conversation with the other, no note out of place. The food here does not merely satisfy; it reveals, slowly, with intent.

Equally worthy of mention was the service — a quiet choreography of attentiveness and warmth. It lacked the rehearsed politeness so common in commercial establishments; instead, there was an authenticity in the hospitality that felt personal. It mirrored the spirit of the food: rooted, generous, and gracious without ostentation.

I am glad I took the decision to visit this place with my...

It's basically a waste of a prime location. Right by the river, in a beautifully decorated setting, it tries to be an upscale restaurant with a trendy private club feel. House DJ, bar, loud music, bouncer, the works... A place to see and be seen, more than to enjoy a nice meal. Staff was polite and friendly, the atmosphere was on par with a high service / high price place, but the food does not deliver the right punch. No vegetarian options - not one - and the excuse was that the menu was portuguese sea inspired, which falls short as half the menu is meat based. And vegetarians know how easy would it be to do a seaweed tofu dish that would compliment the sea theme without batting an eye... How about tempura?! So, a side of rice, potatoes and vegetables is what you can have. Decently done, but no protein whatsoever. The sauteed turnip greens were inedible for me, with a huge amount of barely cooked diced onion instead of garlic. We were a big group, and the non vegetarians didn't complain about the food, but it was nothing to write home about. The deserts were fine (one portion is enough for two) but the selection is a bit on the boring side: the chocolate mousse was good, with chocolate covered peanuts; the crème brûlée had too much lemon zest. Overall, I could not be convinced...