Vintage black and white photograph of a Brazilian woman from 1911

Café A Brasileira

Café A Brasileira Lisbon: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Significance Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Café A Brasileira, located in Lisbon’s bustling Chiado district, is much more than a celebrated coffeehouse—it is a living monument to Portugal’s intellectual, artistic, and culinary heritage. Established in 1905 by Adriano Telles to introduce “genuine Brazilian coffee” to Lisbon, the café pioneered the city’s now-famous “bica” espresso and rapidly became a vibrant hub for writers, poets, and artists. The café’s historic Art Nouveau and Art Deco interiors, its association with legendary poet Fernando Pessoa, and its central role in Lisbon’s cultural life make it an essential stop for visitors seeking to experience the soul of the city (A Brasileira official website; The Lisbon Connection; Historic Cafés Route).

This comprehensive guide details Café A Brasileira’s history, cultural impact, architectural features, menu highlights, and all the practical information you need—including visiting hours, accessibility, and nearby attractions—to make your visit memorable.

Introduction
History & Cultural Significance
Visitor Information
Menu Highlights
Practical Tips for Visitors
FAQ
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

History & Cultural Significance

Founding and Early Years

Café A Brasileira was founded in 1905 by Adriano Telles, a Portuguese entrepreneur who returned from Brazil intent on sharing authentic Brazilian coffee with Lisbon. The café swiftly popularized the “bica”—an intense espresso shot that became a Lisbon staple (A Brasileira official website). Its name, meaning “The Brazilian Woman,” nods to its coffee origins and Telles’s time in Brazil.

From its inception, A Brasileira was more than a place for coffee; it was a gathering spot for Lisbon’s intellectuals during a time of political upheaval and social transformation.

Literary and Artistic Hub

A Brasileira’s reputation as a cultural hub is intertwined with the history of “tertúlias”—animated gatherings of writers, poets, and philosophers who debated the great questions of their time (Portugal Visitor; Mundo Wanderlust). The most celebrated patron was Fernando Pessoa, one of Portugal’s literary giants, whose bronze likeness by sculptor Lagoa Henriques now sits at a terrace table, inviting visitors to sit beside him (Lisbon Listicles). The café’s walls and décor continue to celebrate the city’s artistic lineage, from modernist painters to contemporary creatives (Historic Cafés Route).

Architectural Heritage

The café’s façade and interiors are a harmonious blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco, reflecting early 20th-century sophistication (Historic Cafés Route). Ornate green-and-gold details, mirrored walls, brass fixtures, and black-and-white marble mosaics create a timeless atmosphere. Designed by Manuel Norte Júnior and later renovated by José Pacheco, the café’s aesthetic preserves the glamour of its heyday.

Inside, the atmosphere is elevated by works from artists like Almada Negreiros, whose contributions helped establish A Brasileira as Lisbon’s first modernist “café-museum” (Portugal Visitor). The original spatial arrangement, oak bar, and mosaic floors remain largely unchanged, immersing visitors in a bygone era.

Preservation and Modern Role

Through careful restoration, A Brasileira retains its historic character while serving contemporary audiences. Recognized as a Building of Public Interest and awarded “Lojas com História” status, it continues to inspire both locals and tourists while supporting the city’s living artistic traditions (A Brasileira official heritage).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Opening Hours: Daily, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM. (Some sources note extended hours until midnight; confirm on the official site before visiting.)
Tickets: No entry fee; simply purchase from the menu.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Step-free entrance and accessible restrooms are available.
Assistance: Friendly staff can help with any special needs.

Getting There

Address: Rua Garrett 120, Chiado, Lisbon.
Transport: Close to Baixa-Chiado metro station (Blue and Green lines), multiple bus and tram routes, and nearby parking facilities.

Guided Tours & Events

Tours: Included in many literary or historic walking tours of Lisbon, particularly those focused on Fernando Pessoa (Mundo Wanderlust).
Special Events: The café occasionally hosts art exhibitions, book launches, and literary readings. Check their official website or social media for updates.

Nearby Attractions

São Carlos National Theatre – Renowned opera house.
Bertrand Bookstore – The world’s oldest operating bookstore.
Carmo Convent Ruins – Striking Gothic church ruins and archaeological museum.
National Museum of Contemporary Art – Modern Portuguese art.
Praça Luís de Camões and Rua Garrett – Bustling squares and pedestrian avenues lined with shops, galleries, and more.

Visual Highlights

Photo Spots: The bronze statue of Fernando Pessoa, the ornate façade, Art Nouveau interiors, and historic oak bar.
Virtual Tours: Interactive maps and virtual walk-throughs are available online for pre-visit inspiration.

Signature Dishes

Brasileira Steak (Bife à Brasileira): Served with chips and a fried egg “à cavalo,” famously enjoyed by Pessoa (A Brasileira - The Café).
Fresh Salads: Featuring local produce and cheeses.
Lisbon Breakfast: Fresh bread, cheese, ham, pastries, and signature coffee—an homage to the morning ritual of artist Almada Negreiros.

Pastries & Convent Sweets

Pastel de Nata: Portugal’s iconic custard tart.
Doces Conventuais: Traditional monastic desserts with egg yolk, sugar, and almonds.

Coffee Culture

Coffee is at the heart of the A Brasileira experience. The house blend is crafted from select Brazilian beans, producing a full-bodied, aromatic cup. The term “bica”—Lisbon’s word for espresso—originated here.

Specialties:

Bica: Classic Lisbon espresso.
Galão: Coffee with milk, similar to a latte.
Café com leite: A staple Portuguese breakfast coffee.
Other Options: Cappuccino, americano, and seasonal specialties.

Beverage Selection

Fresh Juices: Made from seasonal fruit.
Teas & Herbal Infusions: Varieties to suit all tastes.
Soft Drinks & Mineral Waters: Non-caffeinated options.
Wines & Spirits: A curated list of Portuguese wines and liqueurs (Café A Brasileira - Menú completo).

Dietary Considerations & Pricing

Menu Languages: Offered in multiple languages.
Dietary Options: Vegetarian dishes available; vegan and gluten-free choices are limited—ask staff as needed.
Pricing: Main courses, pastry, and coffee typically range from €15–€25 per person.
Reservations: Recommended for groups or during peak times.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Times: Visit early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
Reservations: Advisable for groups or peak hours.
Menu Updates: Check the latest selections online (A Brasileira - The Café).
Combine with Sightseeing: The café’s location makes it ideal for pairing with tours of Chiado’s literary, artistic, and shopping attractions.

FAQ

What are Café A Brasileira’s opening hours?
Open daily, 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM (occasionally until midnight—check ahead).

Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free; you simply pay for food and drinks.

Is the café wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with step-free entry and accessible restrooms.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, many city walking tours include the café.

Can I make reservations?
Yes, especially for larger groups or busy times.

What dishes are must-tries?
The Brasileira steak, Pastel de Nata, and the signature “bica” espresso.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Café A Brasileira is not just a café—it is a living chapter of Lisbon’s history, a sanctuary for creativity, and a feast for the senses. From its legendary role in shaping Portuguese intellectual life to its renowned coffee and culinary offerings, every visit offers a unique connection to the city’s past and present. Make Café A Brasileira part of your Lisbon adventure: enjoy its storied ambiance, savor its signature dishes, and explore the vibrant Chiado district.

Plan your visit today! Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours, up-to-date information, and insider tips. For more travel inspiration and practical guides, explore our related articles and follow us on social media for the latest updates.