Brasileira is perhaps Lisbon’s most well-known and iconic cafe. It opened its doors in 1905, centrally located in Largo do Chiado, with an Art Deco style, gold and green facade. It has since become a symbol for Portuguese intellectuals and the artistic community. Brasileira cafe has inspired names such as Fernando Pessoa, who sought inspiration and wrote part of his literary masterpieces there, as well as Almada Negreiros and Stuart Carvalhais, who have exhibited their artworks there.
When it first opened, you could buy a kilo of Brazilian coffee. The company’s first owner was a former coffee vendor.
Brasileira is now a tourist destination, and some of its liaise fair charms have faded as a result of the buzz and people. However, a small expresso (order a Bica) with any Portuguese sweet treat is still worth a visit.
Café A Brasileira is located at 120 Rua Garrett in Sacramento’s civil parish, near the Baixa-Chiado metro stop and close to the University.
