Restaurant Martinho da Arcada was founded in 1782; it is the ex-libris of Lisbon and its oldest café.
It is situated in Praça do Comércio and offers a magnificent view over the Tagus river.
It became famous because it was Fernando Pessoa’s favourite haunt. There is still a table on the very spot where he used to sit and drink coffee and brandy that reminds people of him.
In Martinho there is a wide choice of courses from all of the Portuguese gastronomy. Fresh fish is grilled or used as the basis for other tastier courses. As to meat, there are steaks, veal, lamb, rabbit and pork, either “secretos” (grilled pork steaks) or the Alentejo way (fried with mussel).
Guests must also try some Lisbon traditional courses such as “caldo verde” (cabbage soup), grilled sardine at its time, ”bacalhau à Brás” (codfish with fried potatoes and eggs) or even fried kidney steaks the Portuguese way.
As to dessert, sweet rice, or custard tart are a must.
The staff is kind and fast. Table reservation is advised.
