Restaurante Chiveve — Restaurant in Lisbon

Title: A Taste of Home away from home in Lisbon: An Unforgettable Culinary Journey at Chiveve

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As a tourist travelling to Lisbon, finding a restaurant that truly captures the essence of my home continent’s cuisine is a rare gem. However, my recent dining experience at Chiveve in Lisbon exceeded all expectations and left me feeling nostalgic and satisfied.

From the moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted with warm Mozambican hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere that instantly transported me to the streets of Maputo. The decor, adorned with traditional Mozambican artwork and cultural elements, created an authentic ambiance that set the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey.

The menu at Chiveve is a true celebration of Mozambican cuisine, offering a wide range of dishes that showcase the rich flavours and diverse influences of the country's culinary heritage. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had found a place that truly understands the art of Mozambican cooking.

The highlight of my dining experience was undoubtedly the grilled chicken, a true masterpiece that showcased the freshest ingredients. Each bite, combined with one of the spiciest but amazing freshly made hot sauces, was a harmonious blend of spices and aromas, expertly balanced to perfection. The chicken was marinated to perfection, with the a great flavourful sauce adding a delightful kick that left my taste buds dancing with joy.

The attentive and friendly staff, especially Eddie, at Chiveve further enhanced my dining experience. Their genuine passion for Mozambican cuisine was evident in his recommendations and willingness to share stories about the origins of each dish. Their warm and friendly demeanor made me feel like a cherished guest, adding a personal touch to the overall experience.

Chiveve is definitely a hidden gem in Lisbon that brings the vibrant flavors of Mozambique to life. The exceptional food, warm hospitality, and authentic atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of home away from home. Whether you are a Mozambican longing for a taste of nostalgia or a curious food lover eager to explore new culinary horizons, this restaurant will undoubtedly leave you with a lasting impression and a desire to return time...

The food and the service was exceptional, we had three dishes the chicken in coconut sauce (my wife was licking the plate), and two of their daily specials. One was a curry chicken dish and the other a type of shrimp empanadas with risotto. Everything was delicious it was just a matter of preference. Cooking is an art and like with artist and musicians you can devote your life to it and you will never be good enough. The chef here is magnificent, a true artist blending perfectly the various flavors and giving you a magnificent experience. I could write an essay on our experience but I won’t. I believe if you are a foodie this is a must in Lisbon. The service simply couldn’t have been better and as I have started before it’s something I don’t pay much attention to but it is impossible to ignore here. We devoured the food so quickly that we forgot to take pictures. I almost forgot, we had the tree of life dessert which was delicious. A kind of custard like substance without any milkiness and providing a variety of fruity flavors to the palate. And we had the rice pudding which was a flavor combination of homemade Mexican arroz con leche and Puerto...

When you walk into the restaurant, you are greeted with a smile as wide as the River Chiveve itself. It was a busy Friday night but I was seated at the back near the kitchen.

I started with the beef samosas - 4 perfectly crispy, triangular parcels of deliciously soft meat, served with an addictive chilli sauce. I had to find out what the secret was. Eddie, the owner, pointed into the kitchen to reveal that the secret was his wife and niece. The chillies were from Mozambique and had just the right amount of heat. After seeing how much I loved the sauce, Eddie brought out the original, hotter variety which I loved even more.

I asked Eddie what to order for the main and, without hesitation, said that you have to try "the best chicken in the world" - and you know what, he could be right! This chicken was fall of the bone tender in a coconut sauce that will live long in the memory.

It was my first introduction to Mozambican cooking and will certainly not be my last. Upon leaving Lisbon, my only thought was about when would be the next time I could return...