Hugo, the superb concierge at the Lapa Palace Hotel in Lisbon, knew by week’s end that when it came to a dinner recommendation, we were foodies who enjoyed the local more than the popular, the authentic, not the touristy.
Having proven himself with several superb dining recommendations, we took to heart his sincerity but slight hesitancy regarding eating at Magano. Why? Mostly because it was far off the beaten track, in a residential neighborhood outside of central Lisbon, and that we would be in a restaurant that only the owner spoke English.
All these factors only made us more curious to dine there. So, we took a taxi, but even the local driver had a hard time finding it, squeezed between retail stores, in a block of apartment buildings.
Magano was unassuming yet had the comfortable ease of a popular neighborhood restaurant. It was shaped with a long rectangular space with the kitchen in the front and back. The atmosphere was casual, a true local familiar place where people seemed to all be regulars.
Not a word of English was spoken, until the owner stepped in and with a pleasant, warm demeanor and generous spirit served us; we could not read the menu, so he recommended each dish, talked to us about the region of his cuisine, south of Lisbon, on the coast . He attended to us with a kindness and care of someone who has a passion for his work.
This was our favorite meal in a week of great dining in Lisbon; the regional flavors, the mixes of beans, greeen, fish, cod, potato…it just went on and on, dish after dish.
If in Lisbon, try to eat here. It is so worth it. You have to be up for the truly “local” experience, with its unpretentious, warm atmosphere, and absolutely delicious food. Embarrassing as it may sound, we cannot describe each dish; not having a menu made it difficult. So, trust the owner to chose for you.
Outspoken Traveler 