One of the go to restaurants for our Remote Year group was Roots Tapa’s Bar, serving up Asian fusion plates amongst an eclectic mix of decorations.
Owner and Chefe João Dias has worked all over Europe and China before opening Roots in Lisbon and skillfully combines those tastes in his dishes. His menu changes with the season, but I know the quality won’t.
He loves what he does and takes time to chat with everyone and ensures they’re enjoying their meal as much as their time. So much care is taken in the plating of his dishes and I swear you can taste the love he puts into it.
I had the shrimp and lime risotto, which was topped with flowers and drizzled with a dark vinegar that added a beautiful tangy contrast to the rich dish. It was sooo good! This was followed by an extremely decadent chocolate torte, which I polished off easily, despite being ‘stuffed’. It is so worth the trip here!
Chefe Joao is incredible attentive to his guests, and as such, he has one major rule for dining at his establishment. No Big Groups! And a big group is a party of 5 or more. This is important to him as he feels larger groups “messes with the energy of the restaurant,” and I can appreciate that.
Pro tip: any groups of 5 or more, make a reservation to avoid being turned away at the door!
Sans Sandee 