In case you’re wondering, I haven’t actually left Lisbon since the last post. In fact, I’ve been stuck to the computer screen trying to catch up on work and tie loose bits and pieces of the multiple projects I’m currently juggling. As for my leisure time, it has been taken up by a visitor, my dear friend Viktoria who decided to pop by for a weeklong visit from Berlin. So in the moments between work, we’ve gone out for a few nice meals and coffee breaks. What follows is a round-up of the restaurants we went to, all of which I’d recommend for different reasons. So if in Lisbon, here are some ideas on where to eat.

For a light lunch in a subtly chic environment, Royale Café (Largo Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro 29) has lovely salads, soups and sandwiches, and a nice selection of teas.

For city views, bohemian atmosphere and tasty tapas, check out Chapitô (Rua Costa do Castelo 1–7), a multipurpose space with a circus school and theater, a cafe-bar and a restaurant. Located near the castle in Alfama, it has a great terrace as its highlight.

For a hearty traditional Portuguese meal, 1 de Maio (Rua da Atalaia 8; phone 021.342.6840) in a basement at the bottom of Bairro Alto is a great choice. In addition to fantastic and filling mainstays, it stars a fabulously theatrical waiter (he seems to be a fixture) who will add a touch of drama to your meal.

To sample African dishes and live music in a no-frills environment, head to En’Clave (Rua do Sol ao Rato 71A; 021.388.8738). Try cachupa, a delicious bean and meat stew from Cabo Verde; kalulú, a fish stew from São Tomé and Príncipe; or cafriela, Guinea Bissau-style chicken.