Loco

Located just a few steps from the Basílica da Estrela, Loco is full of surprises as soon as you step through the door, thanks to the tree hanging from the ceiling of the entrance hall – a sensation that continues in the dining room with its abundance of designer features, barely half a dozen bare tables and an open kitchen that enables guests to feel part of the cooking experience, enhanced by the chefs themselves serving some of the dishes. Head chef Alexandre Silva’s culinary skills, incorporated into a single 16-course tasting menu, highlight the provenance of his seasonal ingredients (organic and sourced from local producers where possible); he also prioritises the use of organic wines and gives plenty of prominence to the accompanying breads.
Interestingly, Silva has a high media profile, having won the first edition of Portugal’s Top Chef competition in 2012.