The current name of Avenida de Roma was coined in 1930 and since then it has become one of the most familiar and inviting avenues in the capital.
It’s still traditional, but it hasn’t shied away from innovation and here traditional shops can cohabit with exotic restaurants.
Let’s discover 12 must-see places that will make you fall in love with Avenida de Roma.
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Bananacafe
Bananacafe kiosks are all over the city and this part of town is no exception.
This one is in Praça de Londres, but this is actually where Avenida de Roma begins, so having a coffee here could be a good idea to start or end your stroll around the area.
The kiosk respects the old design and, in addition to drinks, also serves meals.
Address: Praça de Londres 2B
Former Barata Bookshop
Open since 1957, Barata was defined as a tobacconist, stationery store and bookshop. Nowadays, it has given its name to an international brand linked to culture, but it still remains one of the literary spaces that has marked the city, and it was the various generations that nurtured their passion for letters here.
It is still in full swing with a regular program of book launches and exhibitions. It is one of the most cultural spaces on Avenida de Roma.
Address: Avenida de Roma 11A
Arcádia Casa do Chocolate
Porto surrendered to Arcádia chocolates many years ago. Since 2010, the almost century-old brand – it was founded in 1933 – has also been in Lisbon with seven stores.
At the Avenida de Roma store you’ll find all the brand’s specialties, from chocolates in the most diverse sizes and flavors to Bonjour liqueur dragees.
Address: Avenida de Roma 14D
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm
Casa do Gelado 1981
It’s an old-fashioned ice cream parlor , with ice creams, milkshakes, crepes, glasses, bowls… In short, anything with ice cream to sweeten your mouth!
Founded in 1981, this “ice cream house” serves them very creamy and is one of the best in the area. The space has been refurbished and is very inviting, with a small terrace that invites you to sit and enjoy.
Address: Avenida de Roma 28H/I
Pizzeria Lucca
These are some of the best pizzas in the city and this is also one of the most genuine Italian restaurants around.
The restaurant isn’t actually on Avenida de Roma, but it’s worth the few meters’ detour.
As well as wood-fired pizzas, there are salads, pastas and meats made with the freshest ingredients, from truffles to mozzarella. The place has a very original and colorful decor.
Address: Travessa Henrique Cardoso 19
Old Vic
The Old Vic is just off the Avenida de Roma, but it was impossible not to include it.
It’s one of the city’s iconic bars, with a rich history , having opened in 1982 in “private club” mode, and closed for a few years, finally reopening in 1998 to the general public.
Here you not only travel back in time, you go all the way to London. The décor is madeinEngland, in wood and warm tones, and inspires mysterious conversations.
The red velvet sofas make the atmosphere cinematic and there are even buttons to adjust the light and call the waiter.
Cocktails are the star of the house and it remains a magical place to gather friends.
Address: Travessa Henrique Cardoso 41
Sinfonia
Established in 1954, Sinfonia started out as a musical instrument store and nightclub. Later, it also became a stationery and bookshop and the vast majority of children who grew up on Avenida de Roma bought pencils and notebooks here.
The neon lights that illuminate the window are one of the most striking features of the avenue, and this is still one of the most popular stores in the neighborhood.
Address: Avenida de Roma 44A
Frutalmeidas
Some people swear that Frutalmeidas sells the best tender pastries in town, but our passion is the strawberry cake, fluffy and fresh like few others.
It has been around since 1970 and for decades has been serving natural juices with the best fruit, without added sugar, to accompany the delicacies it also serves.
It is undoubtedly one of the most iconic places in the Alvalade neighborhood and continues to be the place of choice for families and passers-by who cross Avenida de Roma.
Address: Avenida de Roma 45
Cafélia
Spreading the smell of coffee along Avenida de Roma since 1953, Cafélia sells teas and coffees from all over the world. However, the Cafélia blend is the star of the show.
They also sell sweets, chocolates, nuts and anything else that can be bought loose. For coffee lovers, all the necessary paraphernalia for top quality coffee is available – teapots, coffee makers, etc.
Address: Avenida de Roma 55C
Imperial Wool
Open since 1972, the Imperial Wool store is dedicated to the wool trade, but also to restoring carpets, making bangs and creating Arraiolos rugs.
After the Restauradores, it was on Avenida de Roma that the shop set up shop and continues to sell woollens of all kinds and shapes and promote sewing and knitting workshops.
Address: Avenida de Roma 59B
Cinema City Alvalade
We are firm fans of cinemas outside shopping centers and this Cinema City Alvalade is a good example.
The cinemas are comfortable and welcoming and here you can escape the hustle and bustle of the big cinemas.
The program includes commercial films, but also more alternative films, spread over four screens.
The café outside also serves good toast and salads and invites you to have a snack or drink before the movie. Remember that you can buy tickets at App Fever at a lower price.
Address: Avenida de Roma 100
Soão – Asian Tavern
Soão is on our list of the best Asian restaurants in Lisbon. It opened in April 2018 and quickly became one of the best restaurants in Alvalade.
It’s right next to Cinema City and serves delicacies from India, Vietnam, Korea, Thailand, Japan and China.
The decor is impeccable, with paper lanterns, bird cages and dozens of other objects evoking oriental culture. Wood is the main element on both floors and the experience of eating at the counter is a must for those who like a more authentic experience.
Address: Avenida de Roma 100
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