It stands to reason that this stylish, nature-inspired restaurant is named Prado, as that’s the Portuguese word for “meadow.” When the owners found a derelict factory in the area of Sé (between Baixa and Alfama), it was in ruins to the point where plants had taken over and covered the rusty interiors. The loved the look, so they kept the greenery—and added more—while renovating the space.
Likewise, the menu, from rising-star António Galapito—a protégé of Michelin-star chef Nuno Mendes in London—is meant to be farm-to-table. Plants figure rather prominently here too—a dinner here was one of the greener meals I’ve eaten in Lisbon.
Galapito spent months traveling the length of Portugal, establishing partnerships with farmers, fishermen, and winemakers. Many of the ingredients and wine are organic, biodynamic, and natural. While the menu changes with the season, it generally includes dishes that sing with green flavor: cockles, spinach, coriander, and fried bread; ceps, garlic leaves, and radish leaves; and black radish, turnips, nori seaweed, and Buddha’s hand mushrooms.
But Prado is not one of those hippie plant-filled vegetarian restaurants. The atmosphere is sophisticated, yet casual. (It’s vaguely Nordic in feel.) And there’s plenty on the menu for omnivores, including dishes like Barrosã beef tartar and grilled galega cabbage, and Iberico pork tenderloin, quinces, and chocolate peppers.
Around the corner, a second Prado operates as a mercearia, selling old-school, sometimes house-made Portuguese products such as jams and pickles. A meadow to go.
For more information visit the Prado website.
Prado
Travessa das Pedras Negras 2
Lisbon
Phone: +351 210 534 649
Email: info@pradorestaurante.com
Hours:
Wednesday–Saturday, 12:00–2:00 (15:30–19:00, wine bar only)
Sunday, 12:00–19:00