Lisbon: Fado Night with Dinner in a Typical Fado House

Authentic Fado Night in a Historic Lisbon Chapel for $80

The Lisbon: Fado Night with Dinner in a Typical Fado House offers a captivating evening in the Mesa de Frades, an iconic venue on Lisbon’s Fado route. Priced at $80 per person and lasting 2.5 hours, this tour combines live Fado performances with a traditional Portuguese dinner. It provides a warm, intimate setting in an 18th-century chapel that’s rich with history and charm, making it a memorable cultural experience.

This experience is perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of Portuguese music and cuisine in a historic setting. While not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, it offers an immersive evening filled with talented singers, soulful music, and delicious food. The combination of historical ambiance and top-quality entertainment makes this a standout option for lovers of culture and fine dining alike.

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Key Points

• Historic Venue: Dine inside an 18th-century chapel with beautiful tiles and royal connections.
• Authentic Fado: Live performances feature top and new-generation fadistas.
• Traditional Cuisine: Enjoy Portuguese dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients.
• Flexible booking: Reserve with free cancellation up to 24 hours and pay later.
• Duration: The experience lasts 2.5 hours, with a typical start time based on availability.
• Price: $80 per person, including dinner, wine, and live Fado music.

The Unique Setting of Mesa de Frades

The Mesa de Frades stands out as a former chapel originally part of the D. Rosa Palace. Its walls are decorated with 18th-century tile panels, featuring the Royal Coat of Arms painted by Portugal’s official artist during King Joseph’s reign. This venue’s history dates back to the 1755 earthquake, after which it was rebuilt by King Joseph to meet his Spanish mistress, D. Rosa. Over the years, it transitioned from a desacralized chapel to a charcoal works and then to a tavern hosting Fado nights.

Today, the venue retains its intimate atmosphere, ideal for enjoying live Fado performances that have been part of its tradition since the late 19th century. The current renovation by musician Pedro de Castro ensures the space remains warm, inviting, and suited for musical evenings. The venue’s history and architecture are integral to the experience, making it more than just a restaurant.

What to Expect During the Fado Night

Guests arrive at Mesa de Frades, where they are welcomed into a small, cozy space decorated with soft lighting and candles on the tables. The live performances feature renowned and emerging fadistas who sing with passion and emotion. The musicians, including guitar players and vocalists, perform classic and contemporary Fado that conveys deep feelings of longing and romance.

The dinner menu emphasizes Portuguese flavors, with options ranging from fish to meat dishes. Reviewers highlight the delicious food and the generous refills of white wine. The atmosphere is relaxed, with the music taking center stage, although guests are encouraged to respect the performers’ focus.

The Food and Drink Experience

The dinner at Mesa de Frades is designed to complement the Fado performances. Guests enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes made with top-quality ingredients, with some reviews mentioning yummy appetizers, main courses, and desserts. The white wine is praised for being delicious and nearly bottomless, with waitstaff ensuring refills throughout the evening.

Spirits and cocktails are not included in the tour, so guests looking for additional drinks should plan accordingly. The focus remains on authentic food and local wines that enhance the musical experience. The service staff are noted for being fast, kind, and accommodating, especially for guests with allergies or dietary needs.

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The Performers and Musical Atmosphere

The talented performers at Mesa de Frades deliver marvelous shows, with powerful female vocalists and guitarists creating an intimate, emotionally charged atmosphere. Many reviews emphasize the passion and skill of the singers, with some describing the experience as breathtaking and almost emotional enough to make one cry.

Guests often mention the beautiful ambiance, with the dimly lit, candlelit room adding to the romantic and exclusive feel. The small size of the venue allows for close encounters with the performers, making every song feel personal and up-close.

Logistics and Accessibility

The tour is designed as a 2.5-hour experience, with check availability for exact starting times. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the historic venue and possible access limitations. Guests are advised to reserve early and cancel free up to 24 hours in advance if plans change.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive on time to fully enjoy the performance and dinner, as the evening is paced to allow guests to savor every moment of the musical showcase without rushing.

Why This Tour Is a Great Cultural Experience

The combination of history, music, and cuisine makes this tour a compelling way to spend an evening in Lisbon. The venue’s storied background—rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and serving as a site of secret meetings—adds depth to the experience. The live Fado performances by talented singers evoke powerful emotions, making it more than just a dinner show.

Reviewers consistently praise the authenticity, quality of food, and talent of the performers. The small, intimate setting enhances the connection between the audience and the music, creating a special atmosphere for any visitor seeking a genuine Portuguese cultural night.

Final Thoughts on the Lisbon Fado Night Experience

Priced at $80, this 2.5-hour experience provides excellent value for a full evening of entertainment, food, and history. The historic chapel setting, passionate performances, and delicious traditional dishes make it an appealing choice for music lovers and culture seekers alike.

While it’s not suited for guests with mobility challenges, those able to access the venue will find an authentic, heartfelt glimpse into Lisbon’s musical soul. The positive reviews highlight skilled performers, great food, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, the venue’s historic nature makes it unsuitable for guests with mobility challenges or wheelchair users.

What’s included in the price?
The $80 fee covers the Fado performance, dinner, and wine. Spirits and cocktails are not included.

Can I cancel the reservation?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

How long does the experience last?
The tour runs for approximately 2.5 hours, with a typical start time depending on availability.

What kind of food is served?
Guests enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes, with options including fish, meat, and desserts, prepared with high-quality ingredients.

Is the experience suitable for children?
The data does not specify, but given the romantic and intimate atmosphere, it’s best suited for adults.

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