Avenida da Liberdade boasts an array of exclusive international fashion brands, from Louis Vuitton to Prada, alongside upscale restaurants like JNcQUOI. Nestled among these gems is another standout: 138 Liberdade Hotel Lisbon.
The history of ‘Liberty Avenue’ dates back to 1755, when it was constructed following the devastating earthquake. Later, the architects under ruler Marquês de Pombal designed the picturesque Passeio Público garden with an eye-catching waterfall. This green space eventually transformed into a lively promenade where people gathered to be entertained by performers and opera singers. The avenue was adorned with statues, including the impressive marble feat Rua Alexandre Herculano (a 19th-century novelist and historian), paying tribute to writers and artists, remaining a significant landmark today.
Managed by Amazing Evolution 138 Liberdade is a showstopper. Housed on Lisbon's most exclusive avenue and doors from Gucci, Michael Kors and JNcQUOI it oozes sophistication, from the dapper doormen on arrival to the elegant fragrance room opposite the check-in desk.
The lobby is a masterpiece, featuring a stunning chess board floor and a captivating collage of keys. Gleaming mirrors and whimsical Mad Hatter chairs complete the scene, drawing your attention and commanding your gaze. It exudes a VIP atmosphere, making you feel like a star the moment you walk through the doors. In true Portuguese fashion, you are welcomed with a delectable Pastel de Nata and a welcome beverage of your choice.
If, like us, you choose to enjoy a local wine in the enchanting botanical garden, you'll find yourself transported to a fairytale world. Amidst the lush flora and fauna, it's easy to forget you're in the heart of Portugal's capital.
As you head to your room, the moment you exit the lift you are greeted with stunning atrium views of the lobby and an HD digital display showcasing the hotel's sushi chefs at work. A delicate fragrance wafts through the halls, creating an inviting atmosphere. Each corridor features a unique token representative of the floor; in our case, it was a charming wooden crate filled with a vibrant array of flowers.
Staying in the Classic Room is a visual delight, as its spaciousness rivals that of a large suite. The contemporary design is complemented by wooden floors and cabin trunk-style side tables—a possible nod to its luxury fashion maison neighbour, Louis Vuitton, renowned for pioneering this iconic travel accessory.
The bed is incredibly comfortable, and each room has a stunning headboard showcasing artwork of the city's famed locations. In our case, we enjoyed historic visuals of the Praça do Comércio.
Modern amenities include a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine, ample mid-century style storage, the comfiest robes, and views of the famed avenue.
The bathroom is ingeniously divided into two sections yet maintains an open-plan feel, a testament to clever interior design that maximises the ample space. The console is adorned with luxurious Chopard toiletries, exuding opulence. Then it is hard to leave the gem of the room, an expansive walk-in shower, offering a spa-like experience, making your stay truly fit for royalty.
Moving onto dining, breakfast at the restaurant is a lavish affair. Attentive butlers are on hand to serve coffee or tea in exquisite traditional china, making you feel as if you've stepped into Lewis Carroll's famed Alice in Wonderland. The elegant atmosphere and impeccable service add a touch of magic to your morning, transforming an ordinary meal into an enchanting experience.
The options range from a buffet of local pastries, charcuterie and cheeses, fruit, bubbles and the option to have a cooked breakfast of your choice - we adored the scrambled eggs, perhaps the best we've tried yet.
Moving on to dinner, the restaurant is a celebration of Portuguese gastronomy and Asian fusion. The decor combines bohemian charm, classical reflections, and contemporary elements, enhanced by rich velvet booth seating and large, comfortable cushions. Teardrop lighting, collage frames, and gilded accents awaken the senses. But it’s the ambience set by a violinist reinterpreting classics like Elton John next to the piano that truly steals the show.
Whether you choose to dine indoors or on the garden terrace, you’ll enjoy front-row access to this stunning performance set against the backdrop of the vibrant botanical garden.
Highlights of our meal include a selection of local breads, among which Pão de Centeio stands out. Served with an array of butter options, including luxurious truffle butter, this dense, flavourful bread is a revelation. The rich, intense taste of the earthy rye pairs exquisitely with the truffle butter, creating a heavenly combination.
For starters, we chose the sushi, intrigued by the Itamae and Shokunin who stood proudly behind the most vibrant and colourful selection of fish we’ve ever encountered. The Itamae, a highly skilled sushi chef, meticulously crafts each piece with precision and artistry, while the Shokunin, a dedicated craftsman, ensures every element of the sushi preparation is perfected. Their expertise adds an extra layer of authenticity and excellence to the dining experience.
The Chef's Moriawase Tartare Platter is ideal for sharing, beautifully adorned with an array of exquisite sea delicacies. This includes tender, buttery tuna, rich and luxurious caviar, delicate, sweet scallops, and silky, flavourful salmon, each piece meticulously prepared to showcase its unique taste and texture.
Next up are the unmissable lamb chops, elegantly nestled on a velvety bed of smoky eggplant puree and garnished with fresh, fragrant mint. Each chop is succulent and melt-in-your-mouth tender, offering a rich, savoury flavour that beautifully complements the creamy, smoky notes of the eggplant. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, promising to satisfy even the most discerning carnivore.
We concluded the evening with a red berry cheesecake, artfully presented in the whimsical shape of a fried egg. This dessert was as inventive and clever as it was decadently creamy, featuring a perfectly delicate crunch in the base that contrasted beautifully with the lush, tangy richness of the berries.
The restaurant boasts an impressive wine selection, offering a diverse range from Portugal’s premier wine regions, including Douro, Dão, Alentejo, and beyond. Our favourite was the Dona Ermelinda Reserva red wine—a bold, sophisticated choice with a complex flavour profile. It captivated the palate with its intense notes of ripe black fruits, aromatic spices, and a hint of smoky undertones, complemented by a subtle touch of luscious jam. This exquisite wine paired perfectly with our meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
For more information visit HERE
138 Liberdade Hotel
Address: Av. da Liberdade 138 142, 1250-001 Lisboa, Portugal
Phone: +351 21 041 0000
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
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