Lisbon’s historic dining and bar scene has gained a vibrant revival with the reopening of Snob, now under the stewardship of the São Bento Group. Led by Miguel Garcia, this group is renowned for acclaimed establishments like Café de São Bento, celebrated for the city’s finest steak, and Bougain Restaurant & Garden Bar and Corleone Ristorante al Mare in Cascais. Their latest addition, the iconic Snob, promises to blend its storied past with contemporary flair.
Originally opened in 1964, Snob quickly became a cultural cornerstone of Lisbon’s Bairro Alto. A favorite haunt for intellectuals, journalists, and political figures, its intimate, English pub-inspired ambiance offered a discreet refuge for luminaries like José Saramago and Carlos do Carmo. Under the care of Mr. Albino Oliveira in the dining room and D. Maria in the kitchen, Snob exuded warmth and discretion, fostering connections and conversations that shaped Portuguese history.
The restaurant’s renovation delicately preserves this legacy. Restored original wooden windows, brass accents, and dark green leather upholstery maintain its timeless charm, while updated furnishings ensure comfort for the next generation.
The revamped menu stays true to Snob’s roots with enduring classics like the Steak à Snob (€20), Bacalhau à Brás (€15), and the tantalizing Mango Mousse (€5). Whether indulging in tender sirloin or savoring light, flavorful Prawns Al Ajillo (€13), the cuisine pays homage to Snob’s rich culinary tradition.
The bar at Snob, once a quiet backdrop to historical debates, now offers an elevated cocktail experience. It features over 60 varieties of whiskey and timeless cocktails such as the Negroni and Sazerac. Modern creations like the Honey Trap provide a contemporary twist, while the historical tidbits accompanying each drink deepen the experience.
Snob’s reopening breathes new life into a Lisbon legend, blending nostalgia with modern elegance. Step into this storied haven, ring the bell, and let the echoes of the past meet the vibrancy of today. Whether for a decadent steak, a signature cocktail, or a moment of quiet sophistication, Snob is ready to write its next chapter—one guest at a time.
For more information, visit the Snob Bar Lisbon website.
Snob Bar Lisbon
Rua de O Século, #178
Bairro Alto
Lisbon
Reservations: +351 926 459 164
Hours: Everyday – 19:00 to 02:00 (kitchen closes at 01:00)
Photos courtesy of Snob | © Guilherme Ornelas