Martinho da Arcada: Lisbon's oldest restaurant

Its history is indelibly linked to Portuguese arts and letters. The Café-Restaurant Martinho da Arcada, at Praça do Comércio, no. 3, in Lisbon, Portugal, is the oldest café in the city that is currently in business. Its history, spanning more than two centuries, is linked to Portuguese literature. It was inaugurated by the Marquis of Pombal on January 2, 1782.

Lisbon's oldest restaurant, founded in 1782

Located under the arches of Lisbon's main square, Praça do Comércio, Martinho da Arcada is Lisbon's oldest restaurant.

Founded in 1782, Martinho da Arcada has witnessed significant historical and cultural events over the centuries. The café was frequented by intellectuals, writers, poets and artists, becoming an important meeting point for the city's creative minds. The establishment has retained its traditional charm, with its antique décor and a unique atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

One of Martinho da Arcada's most famous customers was the renowned Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa. Pessoa and his literary group, Orpheu, often met at the café in the early 20th century, contributing to its reputation as a center for literary discussion and artistic exchange.

As you'd expect from Lisbon's oldest restaurant, the interior is adorned with exquisite Portuguese tiles, so even if you're sitting outside, it's recommended that you take a look inside before leaving. You'll notice that most of the locals dine indoors and the tourists outside in the heat. A very good sign about Restaurante Martinho Da Arcada is that at lunchtime you'll find lots of local women and businessmen dining here.

The café offers a classic Portuguese menu, as well as a selection of snacks, sweets and drinks. If you're not looking for a full meal, you can enjoy the historic atmosphere while sipping a coffee or indulging in traditional Portuguese sweets.

If this is your first visit to the city, then be sure to visit this square. The restaurant is easily found, if you're in the square and facing the city, with your back to the river, you'll find the restaurant in the far right corner, under the arches.

An interesting fact is that Martinho Da Arcada still has a table permanently reserved for the poet Fernando Pessoa, who died a long time ago.

The Restaurant Martinho Da Arcada is located here.