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Belcanto, under the guidance of Chef José Avillez, offers a sophisticated dining experience that blends contemporary techniques with traditional Portuguese flavors. The restaurant's intimate setting, coupled with its two Michelin stars, makes it a sought-after destination for both locals and visitors.

Belcanto Restaurant Lisbon Portugal Dining Experience Overview 

Nestled in the heart of Lisbon, Belcanto stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and modern Portuguese flair. This chic restaurant, located at Rua Serpa Pinto 10A, captivates visitors with its refined wood-paneled dining room and inventive takes on classic Portuguese dishes crafted by the renowned chef Jose Avillez. A destination for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking a sophisticated dining experience, Belcanto offers an exceptional journey through Portuguese flavors, blending tradition and innovation seamlessly.

Culinary Delights and Signature Experiences

Belcanto’s culinary offerings are a true feast for the senses. The tasting menu is highly recommended, featuring a curated selection of dishes that showcase the chef’s mastery and creativity. Priced at €185 per person, this menu invites diners on a thoughtful journey through Portugal’s rich gastronomic heritage. For an elevated experience, wine pairings—ranging from €150 to €250 for premium selections—harmonize perfectly with each course, enhancing the intricate flavors on the plate.

 include the delicate poached sea bass topped with caviar, the tender shrimp paired with toasted rice powder and squid ink, and the exquisite “Garden of the Goose that Laid the Golden Egg” dessert, notable for its rich textures and a touch of edible gold leaf. The restaurant also thoughtfully accommodates dietary restrictions, ensuring every guest enjoys a remarkable meal.

The atmosphere at Belcanto is both elegant and inviting, with dim lighting and classic white tablecloths creating an intimate setting perfect for special occasions. Guests often highlight the warm and attentive service; the staff’s professionalism shines through in their seamless attentiveness, from refilling glasses promptly to providing insightful stories behind each dish. A memorable touch is the guided tour of the kitchen, where diners can meet the dedicated team, including Chef Jose Avillez himself, adding a personalized dimension to the dining experience.

Is Belcanto suitable for special occasions?

 Yes, Belcanto offers an elegant setting and exceptional service, making it ideal for celebrations and memorable evenings.

What is the price range for dining at Belcanto?

 Prices vary depending on the menu; tasting menus are around €185, while à la carte options start at €50.

Does Belcanto accommodate dietary restrictions?

 The restaurant offers vegan-friendly dishes and is happy to tailor menus to accommodate various dietary needs upon request.

Community Sentiment and Guest Impressions

Belcanto enjoys a largely positive reputation among locals and visitors alike, praised for its inventive Portuguese cuisine, exquisite presentation, and attentive service. Frequent guests admire the immersive tasting menus and the thoughtful touches that make each meal special. Some recent reviews note a desire for greater transparency regarding additional charges, such as gratuity fees, but this has not overshadowed the overall exceptional dining experience delivered.

 a perfect blend of Portuguese tradition and modern artistry, where every detail is crafted to delight the senses and create lasting memories.

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Portugal

Nestled in the heart of Lisbon, **Belcanto** is a culinary gem that invites you to embark on a gastronomic journey through Portugal's rich flavors and traditions. With its elegant wood-paneled dining room and intimate ambiance, this Michelin-starred restaurant, led by renowned chef José Avillez, offers a unique blend of modern techniques and classic Portuguese cuisine. Each dish tells a story, making every visit not just a meal, but an experience to savor.

At Belcanto, the tasting menu is a must-try, showcasing the chef's innovative approach to traditional dishes. Highlights include the **poached sea bass with lettuce and caviar**, where the tender fish melts in your mouth, complemented by the briny burst of caviar. Another standout is the **mandarin dessert**, a whimsical creation shaped like a mandarin orange, featuring a refreshing mandarin foam encased in a delicate shell, served alongside yuzu ice cream. Each course is thoughtfully paired with exquisite wines, enhancing the overall dining experience.

One of the unique aspects of dining at Belcanto is the opportunity to meet the talented kitchen staff, including Chef José Avillez himself. Guests often rave about the personalized service and the attention to detail that makes each visit memorable. The restaurant's ambiance, with its soft lighting and elegant decor, sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.

Belcanto is renowned for its innovative take on Portuguese cuisine, offering a tasting menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors.

Visiting Belcanto is a culinary adventure that promises not only exceptional food but also a chance to experience the artistry and passion behind each dish.

Belcanto is conveniently located near several attractions, including the historic Alfama district and the beautiful São Jorge Castle, making it an ideal stop for a full day of exploration.

Whether you are a local or a traveler seeking an unforgettable dining experience, make your reservation at Belcanto today. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Portugal and create lasting memories in this exquisite setting.

Chic, wood-paneled dining room serving modern takes on Portuguese classics from chef Jose Avillez.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmaHZXRG53RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJITj75340GQ0RXULVgWMFloA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmaHZXRG53RRAB

Belcanto is a stunning restaurant with incredible architecture, a great atmosphere, and excellent food. The menu was diverse, creative, and paired beautifully with the wine selection. Everything about the experience felt special and thoughtfully curated.

What still leaves a bitter taste, even after two years, is that a gratuity fee was added to the bill without any prior mention or explanation during the reservation or the meal. On top of that, we tipped, not realizing this fee was already included. It’s absolutely uncommon in Portugal and felt scammy, which was disappointing considering the otherwise amazing experience.

Belcanto has so much going for it, but transparency about charges would go a long way to ensure the experience matches the high expectations it sets.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQM05LVUZnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJITj75340GQ0RXULVgWMFloA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQM05LVUZnEAE

100% recommend the tasting menu! 250€ per person and 150€ to add the wine pairing (250€ for the premium wine pairing). Overall the entire meal and menu was incredible. We enjoyed the presentation and service immensely!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzOU5xeGlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJITj75340GQ0RXULVgWMFloA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzOU5xeGlBRRAB

The service is exceptionally good. Restaurant environment not so crowded and not too quite. Compare to other Starred
Restaurant,  it has much more staffs. Felt surprised when the staff brought us to the kitchen round. The team works successfully.
Food is quite special and up to standrad.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmby1POHBnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJITj75340GQ0RXULVgWMFloA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmby1POHBnRRAB

Such an incredible experience -- my expectations were incredibly high coming into this dinner, but Belcanto managed to live up to all the hype and its reputation as one of San Pellegrino's top 50 global restaurants. While the food itself was amazing, what really made my dinner at Belcanto one of the best meals I've ever had was how remarkably the team came together to form such a holistic, delightful meal. We were warmly greeted when we arrived, and then promptly given a tour of the entire restaurant, as well as a walkthrough of the kitchen. We got a chance to meet the entire kitchen staff, including Chef Jose Avillez himself; it was such a lovely, special touch to be able to meet every single person involved in crafting such a lovely experience.

The restaurant was also gorgeous, with beautiful, yet simple and elegant furniture, and a classic white tablecloth and candle. The dim, intimate lighting helped me feel super relaxed, and the service was also incredibly friendly and attentive. My glass never dipped below half full; they were completely on top of it with refills, as well as clearing and setting up the table between courses.

My mother and I both decided to do their chef's selection / tasting menu, which our server described as a journey through Chef Jose Avillez's experience of Portugal...a love letter to the country, if you will. Each course came with a small index card, which showcased the course with a gorgeous little watercolor painting, as well as a few adjectives that the chef hoped the meal would communicate. At the end of the meal, they packed up all the cards and included a little note from the kitchen, which was such a lovely gesture. They also did a fantastic job accommodating dietary restrictions; they emailed me the week beforehand to confirm any allergies / restrictions, and they made all the substitutions necessary on the day of. The substitutions didn't feel inferior to the standard set at all, and I might even argue that some of my alternative plates were even better...

Every single course was incredible, but some of my favorites had to be:

(1) Poached sea bass with lettuce and caviar -- This was one of their substitutions (offered to me instead of the suckling pig), and it was just divine. The fish was SO tender; if it didn't have the lettuce leaf on the outside, it definitely would have completely collapsed the second I touched it with my fork. While it looked quite simple, the bass packed a ton of flavor, but also let the natural flavors of the seafood shine. It was topped with a dollop of caviar, which offered a great contrast in texture and in flavor profile, and also came with a bit of seaweed...yet another ode to the ocean, but from a completely different angle.

(2) Shrimp -- I'm genuinely obsessed with this dish. The shrimp was remarkably tender, and it went beautifully with the various sauces and the toasted rice powder. I know this dish can be a bit hit or miss for folks, given how seafood-forward it is, but I personally loved the bold flavors. The squid ink was certainly a strong addition to an already seafood-centric plate, but it came together wonderfully.

(3) Mandarin dessert -- This was another substitution, offered in lieu of the cheesecake. It was genuinely one of the best desserts I've ever tasted; it was so light and refreshing, and it really helped me appreciate the mandarin so much more. The dessert was shaped like a mandarin orange, with an outer shell made of mandarin juice; the juice / ice peel concealed a delightful mandarin foam, and the entire thing was served with a bit of yuzu ice cream.

(4) The garden of the goose that laid the golden egg -- Another classic Belcanto dish. It includes a beautiful egg that...is not quite poached, but has a similar consistency. The yolk is gorgeously runny and the whites just melt in your mouth. The ground mushrooms and broth offer a great earthiness, and the hazelnuts are a great crunch. The gold leaf may not taste like anything, but it definitely made the whole dish feel a little extra fancy.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2My1IamlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJITj75340GQ0RXULVgWMFloA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2My1IamlBRRAB

I can’t praise Belcanto enough—from the moment you step inside, it’s an extraordinary experience. The tasting menu wasn’t just a meal; it came with a captivating story that added depth to the evening. Every detail was meticulously considered, and the dishes were both innovative and thrilling.

I had the privilege of sitting with a view of the kitchen and pass, where I could witness the artistry firsthand.

This meal will undoubtedly remain a highlight for me and one I’ll be talking about for a long time to come.

Experience Luxury Dining at Belcanto, Lisbon's 5-Star Restaurant

Established in 1958, Belcanto has evolved from a men's club to a Michelin-starred restaurant under Chef José Avillez's leadership since 2012. It has been recognized among the world's top 50 restaurants, reflecting its significant impact on Portugal's culinary scene.

the rich history of belcanto in lisbon, portugal.

Located at R. Serpa Pinto 10A, Belcanto is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary landmark that embodies the evolution of Lisbon's dining scene. Established in 1958 as a men’s club, this venue has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades, particularly under the creative vision of Chef José Avillez.

The journey of Belcanto is marked by significant milestones that reflect its growth and recognition on both national and international stages:

2012: Chef José Avillez renovates Belcanto, earning its first Michelin star.

2014: Belcanto receives its second Michelin star.

2019: Ranked among the world's 50 best restaurants.

Belcanto's success is not merely a product of its exquisite cuisine, but also a reflection of its dedication to preserving the essence of Portuguese culinary traditions while innovating for modern palates. This commitment has drawn food enthusiasts from around the globe, eager to experience what has been called a "love letter to Portugal" through its tasting menus.

the transformation under chef josé avillez.

In 2012, Chef José Avillez took over Belcanto, revitalizing its reputation and menu. Under his leadership, the restaurant moved to redefine fine dining in Lisbon, resulting in its first Michelin star shortly after the renovation. This accolade was soon followed by a second star in 2014, cementing Belcanto's place among the elite dining establishments globally.

Belcanto now offers guests an unforgettable culinary journey, reflecting the rich tapestry of Portuguese culture through innovative dishes. With each tasting menu, patrons are treated to intricate flavors paired with a story, rooted deeply in the country’s heritage. This combination of experience, service, and quality has made Belcanto a hub for food lovers, not just in Lisbon but around the world.

Today, as one of the most celebrated dining spots in Lisbon, Belcanto continues to honor its historical roots while pushing the boundaries of modern gastronomy. A visit to this iconic restaurant is not just about savoring exquisite dishes; it's about engaging with a legacy that has been carefully curated over decades.

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Restroom

Serves Beer

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Vegetarian Options

Belcanto is a culinary gem in Lisbon, offering modern takes on Portuguese classics in a chic, wood-paneled dining room. Chef Jose Avillez crafts each dish to celebrate local ingredients and culinary artistry, providing an unforgettable dining experience.

Belcanto

Experience contemporary Portuguese cuisine through our Tasting Menu or À la Carte options, each crafted with seasonal ingredients to showcase the rich flavors of Portugal.

Belcanto Tasting Menu

À la Carte Menu

Belcanto Menus

A gastronomic journey through Belcanto's menu

Discover a refined culinary experience at Belcanto, where Chef José Avillez crafts a contemporary Portuguese menu filled with innovative flavors and artistic presentation. Situated in the heart of Lisbon, this restaurant invites food lovers to indulge in an elegant atmosphere paired with a thoughtfully curated wine selection.

Begin your meal with inventive starters that showcase the freshest local ingredients and bold combinations. While the menu is seasonally inspired, expect imaginative bites that tease your palate and set the tone for the courses ahead.

Belcanto's main dishes are a highlight of Portuguese culinary artistry reinvented, featuring exquisite ingredients like hake, squab, and scarlet shrimp. Each entrée is a masterpiece combining tradition with contemporary flair:

Grilled hake with coriander, cured egg yolk, and black truffle

 — Delicately grilled hake accented by fragrant coriander and luxurious black truffle, complemented by a rich cured egg yolk that adds depth and silkiness.

Roast squab with mushrooms, pastry, squab terrine, and cinnamon-hazelnut sauce

 — A sumptuous combination featuring tender squab paired with earthy mushrooms and a crisp pastry, enriched by a velvety cinnamon-hazelnut sauce that marries sweet and savory notes.

Scarlet shrimp with green curry, sprouts, and apple

 — Vibrant scarlet shrimp served with a fragrant green curry, fresh crunchy sprouts, and a touch of crisp apple to balance the bold flavors.

End your meal on a sublime note with Belcanto’s signature dessert, a true testament to creativity and indulgence:

The garden of the goose that laid the golden eggs

 — An elegant dessert featuring a delicate egg with a runny yolk, accompanied by earthy mushrooms and a crispy texture from hazelnuts, topped with shimmering gold leaf for a luxurious finish.

Belcanto complements its sophisticated dishes with an extensive selection of fine wines, craft cocktails, and specialty beverages designed to enhance every bite. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely dinner or a special occasion, the beverage offerings harmonize perfectly with the flavors of the kitchen.

Wine pairings curated by expert sommeliers

 — Explore a diverse range of Portuguese and international wines selected to perfectly complement your meal.

 — Enjoy expertly mixed drinks crafted to elevate the dining experience with balanced flavors and artistic flair.

Discover Belcanto in Lisbon, where culinary artistry meets Portuguese tradition. Savor exquisite flavors and vibrant atmospheres. Book your table today!

Belcanto: Fine Dining in Lisbon's Heart, Portugal

Lisboa Municipality

A curated selection of dishes highlighting the best of Portuguese cuisine.

Tasting Menu

Choose from a variety of traditional and modern Portuguese dishes.

Belcanto Restaurant in Lisbon Portugal - A Culinary Gem with Chef José Avillez's Masterpieces

Nestled in the heart of Lisbon at Rua Serpa Pinto 10A, Belcanto is an exquisite dining destination that embodies the vibrant spirit of Portugal's culinary renaissance. Helmed by the celebrated Chef José Avillez, this chic, wood-paneled restaurant offers a modern take on Portuguese classics, transforming traditional flavors into imaginative, artful dishes that delight the senses.

From the moment you step inside Belcanto, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance and thoughtful curation. The restaurant’s stunning architecture and intimate lighting create a warm ambiance ideal for memorable meals. Guests are often greeted personally and may even be treated to a guided tour of the kitchen, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the artistry and teamwork that elevate every dish.

Belcanto offers two exceptional tasting menus priced at approximately 185 EUR. These menus showcase a selection of Chef Avillez's latest creations — a culinary journey through Portugal's diverse flavors, presented with innovation and flair. For those who prefer to curate their own experience, the À la Carte menu offers individual dishes around 50 EUR, each crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail.

 – A delicate seafood dish that highlights tender bass and the luxurious touch of caviar, delivering an oceanic flavor experience.

Shrimp with sauces and toasted rice powder

 – Bold and tender, this seafood-forward dish is enriched with squid ink, creating a unique and memorable taste.

 – A light, refreshing finale shaped like a mandarin orange, featuring mandarin foam and a touch of yuzu ice cream for a citrusy delight.

The garden of the goose that laid the golden egg

 – A signature dish featuring a luxurious runny egg with earthy mushrooms, crunchy hazelnuts, and a shimmering gold leaf for a touch of opulence.

Belcanto prides itself on outstanding service, with attentive staff ensuring your glass is always filled and your dining experience smooth and comfortable. The restaurant is designed to provide an intimate atmosphere without feeling overcrowded, perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated night out in Lisbon. Though it does not offer outdoor seating or live music, the focus remains firmly on delivering culinary excellence paired with impeccable hospitality.

 – Booking ahead is essential to secure a table at this acclaimed spot, especially for tasting menus.

 – The restaurant accepts credit and debit cards, including contactless payments, but does not accept cash only.

 – The kitchen is attentive to allergies and dietary restrictions, accommodating needs with equally impressive substitutions.

Belcanto is not only a place to eat but a destination to savor Portugal’s culinary artistry in the vibrant city of Lisbon. Whether you are a foodie, a traveler seeking an elegant night out, or a local wanting a memorable meal, this restaurant promises an unforgettable experience.

Belcanto Restaurant in Lisbon: A Michelin-Starred Gem with Nuanced Experiences 

Nestled in the heart of Lisbon at Rua Serpa Pinto 10A, Belcanto stands out as a beacon of modern Portuguese gastronomy. Celebrated for its innovative cuisine crafted by Chef Jose Avillez, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined dining experience that marries traditional flavors with creative flair. The elegant, wood-paneled interior creates an intimate ambiance perfect for special occasions or culinary explorations.

Exceptional Culinary Offerings and Service

Belcanto's tasting menus are highly recommended for those eager to embark on a gastronomical journey through Portugal's diverse flavors. Guests frequently praise the creative menu presentations and expertly paired wine selections, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail from kitchen to table. Service here is often described as warm and attentive, with staff providing insightful tours of the kitchen and thoughtful accommodations for dietary restrictions.

While the culinary experience is exceptional, prospective diners should be aware of some considerations. Prices at Belcanto are on the higher end, with tasting menus and wine pairings reflecting its fine dining status. Portions may be smaller than expected, emphasizing quality and artistry over quantity. Additionally, during peak times, some guests have noted the service can feel rushed, potentially detracting from a leisurely meal experience.

 that redefines traditional flavors with creativity.

 from attentive staff who enhance the dining experience.

 ideal for intimate and special occasions.

 in Lisbon’s Santa Maria Maior neighborhood, convenient for visitors.

 during peak hours, affecting the dining pace.

Santa Maria Maior District

Indulge in an exceptional dining experience at Belcanto, Lisbon's Michelin-starred restaurant. Discover innovative Portuguese cuisine crafted by Chef José Avillez. Reserve now!

Experience Luxury Dining at Belcanto in Lisbon

Explore our tips and insights for dining at Belcanto, from tasting menus to wine pairings. Experience the art of modern Portuguese cuisine in a stunning setting!

Your Guide to Dining at Belcanto, Lisbon

Learn about Belcanto, the iconic Michelin-starred restaurant in Lisbon founded by Chef José Avillez. Discover its history, menu offerings, and exceptional dining experience.

Experience Luxury Dining at Belcanto, Lisbon's 5-Star Restaurant

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