Olá, my fellow foodies and cocktail enthusiasts! 🍸✨ Lisbon by day is all sunshine and tiled streets—but by night, it reveals its sultry, sophisticated side. And nowhere did I feel that more than at Gin Lovers in Praça do Príncipe Real, a stunning and stylish concept space located within Embaixada, a 19th-century neo-Moorish palace turned boutique shopping gallery. What started as a simple evening out turned into one of my most memorable Lisbon nights: incredible cocktails, bold Portuguese flavors, and that warm, effortlessly chic ambiance that Lisbon does so well.
First Impressions: Courtyard Chic
Stepping into Gin Lovers feels like entering a secret garden for cocktail lovers. The space is set in a beautiful open-air courtyard, with elegant stone columns, leafy climbing vines, and twinkling string lights casting a soft glow over sleek, contemporary tables. The décor marries historic charm with modern minimalism, and it creates a truly intimate setting—refined but never stuffy.
The atmosphere was buzzing but relaxed, and the staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their passion for gin. I immediately felt welcome and excited to begin the experience.
The Gin Experience: More Than a Drink
Gin Lovers is more than a bar—it’s a destination for gin aficionados. The team collaborates with craft distilleries and develops their own Gin Lovers Distillery Label, carefully curating unique gin expressions made with high-quality botanicals. Whether you’re a seasoned gin connoisseur or just discovering the spirit, the menu offers signature cocktails, G&Ts with a twist, and inventive house infusions that highlight the aromatic possibilities of gin.
We sampled a few varieties, each more delightful than the last. The gins were expertly blended and beautifully presented, with each drink thoughtfully garnished to enhance its botanical profile. It wasn’t just a drink—it was a sensory experience. Crisp, refreshing, and incredibly elegant.
The Food: A Culinary Companion to the Spirits
While the gin was the headliner, the food was no understudy. The dishes were creative, flavorful, and distinctly Portuguese with a modern touch:
🥖 Cesto de Pão – A warm, rustic bread basket featuring a variety of traditional Portuguese loaves. Served with olive oil and sea salt, it was simple and comforting—the perfect start.
🧀 Tábuas de Enchidos e Queijos Portugueses – A generous board of Portuguese cured meats and artisanal cheeses, including presunto (dry-cured ham), chouriço (smoked sausage), and a selection of regional cheeses. Served with house-made jams and pickles, it was a flavorful and beautifully presented spread.
🦐 Gambas ao Alho – Succulent garlic prawns sautéed in a fragrant olive oil and garlic sauce, with just a hint of chili for a gentle kick. Juicy, aromatic, and perfect for mopping up with fresh bread.
🥩 Pica Pau de Lombo – A modern take on a traditional Portuguese petisco. This dish featured tender strips of beef loin sautéed with pickles and mustard, served in a flavorful sauce that was tangy, rich, and deeply satisfying. A bold, savory standout that paired perfectly with a crisp gin cocktail.
Every bite was thoughtfully prepared and wonderfully balanced with the cocktails. The flavors were rustic yet refined, offering a true taste of Portuguese hospitality with a cosmopolitan twist.
Final Thoughts: Lisbon’s Hidden Gem for Cocktail Lovers
My evening at Gin Lovers was one of those experiences that lingers long after the last sip. It was elegant without being overdone, indulgent without being overwhelming—and full of heart. The food, the cocktails, the ambiance—it all came together so naturally.
If you’re visiting Lisbon and want to experience the city’s creative culinary side and booming gin culture, Gin Lovers is an absolute must. Whether you go for a romantic date, a stylish night out with friends, or a solo escape, it promises a beautifully curated moment you won’t forget.
Until the next pour, drink beautifully and travel curiously 🍸🌍
xoxo,
Bubbly 💖
