Let’s start with some good news: we heard from the CEO of the Plateform group, which manages several restaurants in Lisbon, including the city’s newest and largest pizzeria , ZeroZero in Belém, that the very old Tavares restaurant may reopen in 2027, since its doors have been closed since 2019.
Founded in 1784, the Tavares restaurant, also known as Tavares Rico (you’ll see why) is located on Rua da Misericórdia, near Largo de Camões, and is considered the oldest in the country, standing out internationally for also being one of the “oldest” on the Old Continent.
Always faithful to its roots and traditions, it was only after 1861, when Vicente Caldeira took over its management, that the Tavares restaurant became even more prominent, especially as it became a very exclusive place (only for the “rich”?!), with decorative renovations that combined the Belle Époque and Art Noveau styles, becoming the favorite place of Lisbon’s aristocracy, as well as writers such as Eça de Queirós, Ramalho Ortigão and Guerra Junqueiro.
The reasons for being so “special”
Over the years, Tavares has always been a space worthy of its time. While other historic restaurants have been radically transformed, this one has managed to preserve its classic atmosphere, where each dining experience was sophisticated and unique, while also remaining the stage for major literary events, political debates and various cultural celebrations.
The notoriety and exclusivity of the Tavares restaurant is reflected not only in its longevity, but also in the fact that it has always managed to attract different generations of customers, without resorting to more complex marketing tools. I well remember walking past its doors as a student, just to take a peek at its glamor (in those days, my wallet couldn’t afford even a simple couvert).
Some curious facts about Tavares
There have been more than two centuries of stories, which only those who had the privilege of living in its heyday can reproduce. Among the most current, it is known that, in 1980, Francisco Sá-Carneiro, then Prime Minister of Portugal, had lunch at Tavares on the day of his death, in what is still considered to be a mysterious plane crash.
More recently, in 2009, we remember one of the highest moments in this restaurant’s long history, when Chef José Avillez “commanded” its kitchen, leading it to win a Michelin star.
It is said that one of the best-known dishes served at Tavares was the classic Bife à Marrare, considered one of the most historic in the capital.
Tavares Rico, which is how we know it best, is not only one of the oldest restaurants in Europe, it is the mark of our country’s authenticity and excellence.
Passing through its doors again, sitting at a table and being served “the old way” will certainly be a milestone, a must for front-page newspaper stories and television news, we hope.
Don’t miss out! Follow us on Facebook,Instagram and now WhatsApp too!