Cervejaria Ramiro
This three story Lisbon institution has been dishing out the city's freshest mollusks and crustaceans since 1956, but it is the prego for dessert - a steak sandwich, that keeps diners coming back for more.
Upon first arrival, Cervejaria Ramiro feels more like an exclusive nightclub than a seafood restaurant. The line to enter extends down the Avenida Aim Reis where excited patrons buzz in anticipation. The hosts stand firmly at the entrance with ear pieces in tow, controlling the clamor of diners eager to enter, sending groups into the three story labyrinth one by one.
Inside is bright and beautiful, with huge windows looking out towards the Castle of São Jorge. Tables are donned simply with white linens, and are packed with diners cracking into crustaceans reminiscent of the Mesolithic Era.
The meal begins with pão torrado com manteiga, spheres of toasted bread lathered generously with melted butter. Local oysters and whole prawns are presented simply, allowing the quality to shine. Garlic shrimp and razor clams come in sauces laden with herbs and garlic. Mopping it up with pão is encouraged. Breaking into the giant tiger prawns, barnacles, and crabs are a labor of love. Everything is perfectly accompanied by an icy Sagres or glass of vinho verde.
Every few minutes hammers thud at neighboring tables as diners mercilessly crack into crabs, the siren song of seafood. Each dish is uncompromisingly fresh and perfectly executed: the definition of simplistic elegance.
After the crabs and prawns have been picked clean and every last oyster has been slurped, it is time for dessert, which at Cervejaria Ramiro is a bit untraditional. The prego, a beef tenderloin sandwich, is one of the best in the city, and it is tradition here to eat it for dessert. It is a simple sliver of beef cooked rare, seasoned well and stuffed inside a pillowy roll. An incomparable finish to an exceptional dining experience.
Know Before You Go
Cervejaria Ramiro accepts reservation by email or phone, and booking ahead will give you the best chance at avoiding the long lines.