Behind a nondescript doorway on Rua da Boavista in Lisbon’s vibrant Cais do Sodré district, Fratelli Brutti is a trattoria that brings the warmth, mischief, and unapologetic comfort of Naples to Portugal’s capital. With just 32 seats, vintage Italian posters, and a vinyl soundtrack spinning nostalgic tunes, this casual and cozy spot is all heart—and a whole lot of flavor.
The name, which translates to “Ugly Brothers,” nods to the legend of two unruly Neapolitan siblings famous for their culinary passion and playful chaos. Their spirit lives on in Fratelli Brutti, where the walls are adorned with a mural of the infamous duo—spaghetti streaming from their ears—and the food tastes like it came straight from nonna’s kitchen.
Fratelli Brutti is the latest project by Bruno Contreras, whose deep Italian roots and career include Antica Osteria del Ponte and co-founding the Milanese cult favorite Trattoria San Vittore. Joining him are partners Mitzie Lau, a Rome-based “born-again Italian” with nearly a decade running a beachside chiosco in Sardinia, and Abdul Baaghil. Together, they’ve created a space where tradition meets personality, and every bite tells a story.
Our evening began with focaccia—crispy-edged and buttery—paired perfectly with burrata served atop zucchini slices and crushed pistachios. It was the kind of combination that makes everyone nod and smile.
Pastas are the stars here, with the carbonara staying true to its Roman roots: no cream, just pecorino romano, pork jowl, and egg. For seafood lovers, the spaghetti alle vongole is no doubt a favorite—briny clams in a garlicky, white wine sauce. The Casseruola della Famiglia Brutti, a decadent family-style penne with braised pork shoulder and mushrooms, brings the table together with hearty flair.
Pizza purists will swoon over the Biga-fermented dough, slow-risen and light, with San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. From the classic Margherita (topped with tomato, mozzarella, basil) to the bold Quattro Formaggi (tomato, mozzarella, pecorino, gorgonzola, ricotta), each pie is a slice of Naples.
Dessert? Don’t miss the tiramisu—elegantly layered, balanced, and blissful—or the Pavlova della Nonna (for two), a cream-filled mountain of meringue, adorned with seasonal fruits, whipped cream, cinnamon, pinenuts. A true homage to Italian grandmothers everywhere.
At Fratelli Brutti, you don’t just eat—you feel like part of the famiglia. Come hungry, leave smiling… even if you’re a little “brutti” yourself.
For more information, visit the Fratelli Brutti website.
Fratelli Brutti
Rua da Boavista, 8
Lisboa
Phone: +351 213 460 629
Email: contact@fratellibrutti.com
Open everyday – 17:00 to 24:00