Chico Esperto reimagines Portuguese classics in Lisbon's heart

Chico Esperto, a Portuguese restaurant in Lisbon’s Roma district, serves up simple yet flavourful traditional dishes. The cosy, well-lit space welcomes guests daily from 12 PM to 11 PM. Behind the menu is a team of 16, working together to deliver hearty meals at reasonable prices—between €15 and €35 per person. One standout dish is their reinvented Raia à Gomes de Sá, a twist on the classic Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá. Instead of cod, the kitchen uses dried skate, grilled in-house for a subtle smokiness and firm texture. The fish arrives with boiled potatoes, hard-boiled egg, sautéed onions, garlic, olive powder, and fresh parsley. The mix of ingredients creates a bold, deeply satisfying flavour.

For starters, the *Bean Soup with Unto* (€3) offers a taste of rustic Portugal. The soup relies on *unto*, a traditional lard, for richness. Diners with room for dessert might try the *Chocolate Mousse* (€5.50), a thick, indulgent option best shared. The restaurant’s layout includes quiet corners for smaller groups and a separate room for larger gatherings. The atmosphere balances warmth with simplicity, letting the food take centre stage.

Chico Esperto focuses on honest, well-prepared Portuguese cooking. The menu highlights creative updates to classics, like the skate-based Raia à Gomes de Sá, alongside affordable staples. With its welcoming setting and consistent quality, it’s a reliable spot for those craving hearty flavours in a relaxed environment.