Roda Viva — Restaurant in Lisbon

Second time I come to this restaurant. First time was a few years ago when I brought friends, an American couple, to try Mozambican food.

It lies in a narrow alley in front of the Museum of Fado. It's a small room, with capacity for about 20 people. So I recommend making reservations. I was worried, this being a Friday night, but it seems the rain scared a lot of people. Even so, it was already half full when we got there around 20:20.

There's only one waiter, a very laidback guy, full of smiles, quick at taking orders, and attentive to our calling gestures. I'm the kind of person who likes to sit down and focus on my table companions, so I'm thankful he didn't try to start a conversation with me. But diners who are into banter with waiters will love him. Throughout the night he engaged with several customers, bringing out giant bottles of spicy sauces and letting them try them on and discussing the finer points of this or that dish. He knows how to keep the room in high spirits!

The food was served quickly. As a starter, I and my girlfriend asked for a plate of cassava fries and we loved dipping them in the garlic sauce. It was our first time eating those, they were so yummy!

My girlfriend went for cachupa, a type of thick stew; I asked chicken with peanut sauce. Our sides were white rice and a handsome dose of xima, a thick porridge made from ground corn flour (or maize), a mainstay of Mozambican food. It was the second time in my life I ate xima and it was tasty. If you ask the waiter, he'll bring you spicy sauce to go along with the food.

The food was delicious and the doses were fulfilling. We were so full we didn't have the guts to ask for deserts.

The bill was within reason given the recent rise in the local cost of life.

Also, after we finished we stayed an hour seated talking, since it was rainy outside. At no time did the waiter make signs that we should get up and leave. Eventually we left 40 minutes before closing time because my girlfriend had a boat to catch.

All in all, Roda Viva is a fine restaurant with good food and an easy-going waiter who makes diners feel welcome. It's a place I'll continue to eat in and I very much...

I found this place after I Googled “African restaurants in Lisbon”. I was keen to support a Black owned business while I was in town. Luckily this one was less then a 5 min walk from my Airbnb.

While the decor, vibe and waiter were all lovely enough unfortunately I wasn’t very impressed with the food. I was definitely expecting more after having read the reviews.

Reviews were raving about the shrimp curry but once I found out the shrimp was served with shells on, I decided to go for the chicken & peanut dish as I was hungry wanted something easy. However I did not find the chicken dish to be very tasty. Also I am not sure what part of the chicken it was but it was not very meaty, and was quite full of bones? The rice was so so, quite plain. Like other reviewers have mentioned, I did not find the portion size or food quality to match the price.

However my favourite thing was the port wine - very tasty!

What didn’t help was I spotted an in insect run across the floor, I think it was a cockroach? I am not sure exactly. But I think it’s an area issue rather than a Roda Viva specific issue as I noticed quite a few of the same creatures dead on public steps nearby.

It’s a huge shame. I wanted to support but unfortunately it was not my favourite...

Roda Viva is a cozy gem tucked into the winding streets of Alfama. The interior is intimate and warm, with Mozambican music playing softly in the background. It feels like stepping into someone’s home—welcoming, relaxed, and full of character. I tried a mix of traditional dishes: Samosas – crispy and flavorful, served with a hot dip that added a delightful kick. Roasted Chicken in Peanut and Coconut Sauce – tender and rich, with a perfect balance of nutty and creamy flavors. Mousse de Coco – light, sweet, and refreshing, a perfect finish to the meal. The flavors were vibrant and layered, clearly crafted with care. 🧑‍🍳 Service The staff were incredibly friendly The waiter took time to explain each dish. The service felt personal and attentive without being intrusive. I had just water during my visit, but sangria, beer, and local wine are available to complement the meal.

⭐ Highlights Authentic Mozambican flavors Cozy, romantic setting Great for vegans and vegetarians Warm,...