Just five minutes by car from Lisbon's iconic Avenida da Liberdade, CZAR Lisbon Hotel (managed by Amazing Evolution) offers a unique Portuguese experience. This chic retreat, tucked away in the vibrant, multicultural enclave of Avenida Almirante Reis, is a street that remains an undiscovered gem for most tourists.
It is steeped in history, named in honour of Admiral Carlos Cândido dos Reis, and holds a poignant past. A staunch republican, Admiral Reis was pivotal in the 1910 Portuguese revolution. On the eve of the revolution, misinformed that the uprising had failed, he tragically took his own life near the Arroios hospital. Unbeknownst to him, the revolutionaries had succeeded, ending the monarchy. The death was kept a secret to ensure the revolution's success.
An array of unique thrift and vintage stores, along with enticing eateries, capture the eye as you stroll towards the bustling Bairro Alto area or the picturesque Praça do Comércio from CZAR. The walk is both scenic and surprisingly short, offering delightful discoveries and charming sights at every turn.
The glass-fronted hotel boasts 77 luxurious rooms, and its lobby is a breathtaking spectacle. Spotlights dance off candle-lit lanterns, illuminating gold accents, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sumptuous velvet furnishings.
Rooms are cosy and compact yet exude regal comfort, featuring plush beds with golden headboards that promise a perfect slumber. The breathtaking rooftop views of Lisbon revealed with a simple draw of the curtains, add to the room's majestic charm.
The bathroom features an expansive console adorned with an exquisite array of locally sourced toiletries, ensuring a touch of luxury with every use. Additional amenities elevate the experience, including a sleek Nespresso machine for your morning coffee, a state-of-the-art smart TV for your entertainment needs, a well-appointed workstation for productivity, and ample storage space that could accommodate the wardrobe of a Tsar. The design and functionality of the bathroom and adjoining amenities combine to create a haven of comfort and sophistication, perfectly suited for those on business and discerning travellers.
Sip a freshly brewed coffee on the charming outdoor mosaic patio, where the intricate tilework adds a touch of Mediterranean elegance to your morning ritual. As the day transitions into the evening, indulge in a glass of rich Tinto or explore the extensive selection of fine wines at the bar. The bar proudly features an impressive array of options from the illustrious wine regions of Douro, Lisbon, Alentejo, and beyond, offering a journey through Portugal’s celebrated vineyards. Each sip is a testament to the country's renowned winemaking heritage, allowing you to savour the flavours that have earned Portuguese wine a place among the best in the world. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploration or enjoying a leisurely evening, the ambience and offerings ensure a truly memorable experience.
Next up is dining. In the morning, guests are treated to a visually stunning display of pastries, including the country's famed pastel de nata, a sweet and creamy delight that melts in your mouth. The spread also features a variety of cooked options, ranging from fluffy scrambled eggs to crispy bacon, along with a selection of continental meats and cheeses.
The buffet is a feast for the senses, making it difficult not to return for seconds.
In the evening, the hotel transforms into an intimate and enchanting setting, inviting guests to indulge in unique and exquisite cuisine with a creative twist, courtesy of the talented Portuguese Chef David Rodrigues. Rodrigues masterfully celebrates intricate and flavorful Portuguese recipes, making them accessible and easy to recreate at home. Each dish showcases meticulous attention to detail and stunning visual presentation, leaving guests in awe of his culinary artistry.
We savoured an array of exquisite dishes, starting with the sumptuous Duck Croquettes—crunchy yet succulent on the inside, adorned with a luscious topping of squid-ink aioli. Chef Rodrigues continued to dazzle with his Salmão e Risoto Negro, a masterpiece of black creamy risotto bursting with essence, complemented by a meaty salmon fillet resting elegantly on top. Each bite offered a delightful interplay of textures and flavours that tantalised the palate.
For dessert, the Beyond Chocolate was a decadent finale, creamy and irresistible, with a rich and flavourful tart that left us yearning for more.
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Czar Lisbon Hotel
Address: Av. Alm. Reis 103, 1150-020 Lisboa, Portugal
Phone: +351 21 111 5200
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
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