7 Of The Coolest Concept Bars In Lisbon

Lisbon offers all types of bars for its drinkers and night owls: Rooftop. Cocktail. Jazz. LGBT. Neighborhood. But for this list, we cover a few with the best themes. For a unique night out, visit the city’s concept bars that are scattered across some of the coolest neighborhoods. Whether you’re in the mood for art, sky, color, and/or ambiance, this list has something for practically everyone.

Pavilhão Chinês

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Pub Grub

Five rooms filled with endless treasures await inside the Pavilhão Chinês (Chinese Pavilion) in Lisbon’s trendy Principe Real. This cocktail bar is considered one of the most beautiful venues in the city and nearly doubles as a unique museum of sorts, with an assortment of knick-knacks and artifacts making up the wall and ceiling décor. Not only does the venue have style (which includes comfortable cushion chairs) but it also has pool tables.

Red Frog Speakeasy

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Cocktails

Leave the Avenida Metro stop and turn down a nearby, nondescript side street to find one of the more sophisticated bars disguised as an apartment building. There is no sign, but the red frog by the doorbell will let you know that you have reached the Red Frog Speakeasy, a charming “American prohibition-themed” bar. Press the bell, wait for the unlocking “click,” and head inside to the dimly lit and romantic bar which reflects hints from the 1920s. The drinks are also classics but are given artistic additions.

The Old Pharmacy

Sometimes, a glass of something tasty is just what the “doctor” prescribes. Instead of medicine, this pharmacy-turned-bar has cabinets filled with hundreds of wine bottles. Located in Bairro Alto, The Old Pharmacy is perfectly situated to attract plenty of attention – and it does just that. From the small and intimate table arrangements to the alluring white walls and cabinets, this aesthetically appealing venue is definitely an eye-catcher.

Sky Bar

Bar, Hotel Restaurant, Portuguese, Pub Grub

Lisbon is known for its terraces and rooftop venues, but few can compete with Sky Bar in Avenida da Liberdade. Located at the top of the Tivoli Avenida Hotel, it is an open-air bar with phenomenal panoramic views over the city, creating a simple yet powerful celestial concept. Sophisticated and upscale, with a full cocktail menu and an assortment of delicious bites, this is the place to go if you don’t mind spending a bit more money and a lot of time up above Lisbon.

Park Bar

Bar, Portuguese

Park Bar is another trendy rooftop and one of the most popular hangouts in the city. Properly named, it is situated the top floor of a parking garage in lower Bairro Alto. Despite this location, there is an earthy feel about Park Bar with its decorative plants and wood seating areas. The view takes in the top of the Santa Catarina Church in addition to the Tagus River and 25 of April Bridge.

Lost In

Bar, Restaurant, Vegetarian, Mediterranean, European, Portuguese, Vegan, Gluten-free

It’s easy to forget that you’re still in Lisbon when at the Lost In Café and Bar, but don’t worry, the city’s iconic views will remind you. The multi-color seating and decorations, in addition to the greenery, create a bohemian vibe that’s unique in the Principe Real neighborhood. It is also a romantic and relaxing venue, mainly sought after for the outdoor seating, and blankets are even provided when the temperatures dip in the evenings.

Pensão Amor

Bar, Portuguese

In English, Pensão Amor means Love Guesthouse and hints at the location’s original use as a brothel back when Cais do Sodré acted as Lisbon’s red-light district. In fact, the entire bar honors the area’s colorful past with bright walls, brighter curtains fringing the doorways, dancing poles, and provocative art. Despite this exciting vibe, the venue is pretty relaxed and acts as a cool hangout spot for both couples and groups, and it sometimes hosts shows including (but not limited to) burlesque.

About the author

Nina Santos

Nina is a Portuguese-American writer living in Lisbon. She spends all of her time exploring and sharing the amazing things that Portugal has to offer.