Best Fado Houses in Lisbon

Fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre, is often experienced in intimate settings known as Fado houses or "Fado ao Vivo" venues.

These places provide a unique atmosphere where talented Fadistas (Fado singers) perform, creating an emotional and authentic experience for the audience. The origin of Fado is temporally and geographically difficult to locate: some think that Fado came from the songs of the Muslim people, strongly nostalgic and melancholic, others rely themes and inspirations for the songs of the Portuguese medieval troubadours, still others think that it comes from the “lundum”, Brazilian music of the slaves brought to Lisbon in the return of the court of D. João VI from Rio de Janeiro, around 1820. The most recurrent themes of Fado are “saudade”, love and the city. The idea of ​​destiny, as an implacable force beyond human will, is essential for its true understanding.

Here are some of the most famous Fado houses in Lisbon:

1. A Severa (Bairro Alto)

A Severa claims to be the oldest Fado house in Lisbon, open since 1955 and run by the same family for 4 generations. It was named after Maria Severa, a legendary Fado singer from the 19th century. The venue, situated in the historic Bairro Alto neighborhood, is known for its historical ambiance and quality Fado performances. It is an active part of the history of Fado, being important for the promotion of the traditional Portuguese culture, where some of the greatest Fado singers started and passed away.
 

2. Clube do Fado (Alfama)

Located in the historic Alfama district, just a “stone’s throw away” of the renowned Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral), Clube de Fado is one of the most renowned Fado houses in Lisbon. It has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, providing an authentic Fado experience along with traditional Portuguese cuisine. Its architecture tells us stories of ancient existence. Solid walls, columns, arches, ogival ceiling combined with a tasteful and discrete style built upon tradition.
 

3. Sr Vinho (Madragoa)

Located in the Madragoa neighbourhood, Sr. Vinho opened in 1975. The venue has hosted some of the most famous fado singers. It offers a traditional Portuguese menu and an intimate atmosphere for an authentic Fado experience. It’s a good option if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of neighbourhoods such as Bairro Alto.
 

4. O Faia (Bairro Alto)

With a history dating back to the 1940s, O Faia is a Fado house located in Bairro Alto. It has a vintage charm and hosts performances by skilled Fadistas. In more than 70 years of existence, with daily Fado nights, big names have been a regular presence here - first and foremost its founder, Lucília do Carmo, an important figure in the history of Fado, as well as her son, Carlos do Carmo.
 

5. Tasca do Chico (Bairro Alto)

Tasca do Chico, located in the Bairro Alto district, is a popular Fado house known for its lively and informal atmosphere. It's a great place to experience Fado in a relaxed setting, often with impromptu performances. Please note that the name “tasca do chico” is quite common in portuguese and there are other fado houses with the same name. The most famous is located in rua do Diario de Noticias.
 

6. Mesa de Frades (Alfama)

Mesa de Frades, located in Alfama, is known for its rustic and historic charm. The history of the building where the restaurant is located makes this space even more emblematic. Once a palace, it was destroyed by the 1775 earthquake. In the 18th century, King José had the Palacio D Rosa rebuilt and offered the tile panels made by the King's official painter with the royal coat of arms. In the 19th century, the chapel was desacralized and converted into a charcoal factory. Later, it was granted a license to sell wine and became a tavern with amateur fado nights.
 

7. A Baiuca (Alfama)

Baiuca is a small and intimate Fado house in Alfama. Its cozy atmosphere, traditional decor, and talented Fadistas make it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking an authentic Fado experience.
 

8. Adega Machado (Bairro Alto)

Situated in Bairro Alto, Adega Machado is not only a Fado house but also a historic venue that dates back to 1937. It has hosted famous Fado singers and continues to be a place where guests can enjoy Fado in a sophisticated setting. The architectural project remodelled the establishment's image in a clear commitment to synthesising the memories and experiences imprinted on it with a more up-to-date visual language that turned the space into an exhibition space.

These Fado houses offer diverse experiences, ranging from historic and traditional settings to more contemporary and informal atmospheres. Each provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating world of Fado, often accompanied by authentic Portuguese cuisine.

If you're thinking of listening to Fado, don't forget to book in advance. Most restaurants now allow online bookings. To get there, ask for a tuktuk. There's no more comfortable way to get to the venues in the narrow streets of the Alfama, Bairro Alto and Madragoa neighbourhoods.

“Silencio que se vai cantar o Fado”