Once again, the judging has been compiled and the list for the Worlds best 50 restaurants has been compiled. I’m pleased to announce that Portugal did manage to be present on the list. Major congratulations to Belcanto in Lisboa for finishing 42nd
Belcanto opened in 1958, in Chiado, in the beautiful São Carlos Square, next to the São Carlos National Theatre and to the house where the great Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa was born. The privileged location in Lisbon’s historic centre, the sober ambience, the discrete service, and its cuisine soon won over Lisbon’s elite who turned Belcanto into an inescapable meeting place.
Belcanto by José Avillez opened at the beginning of 2012, totally refurbished. In that same year, Belcanto was distinguished with one Michelin star, and in 2014 with a second one. Belcanto by José Avillez was the first restaurant in Lisbon to be distinguished with two Michelin stars and José Avillez was the first Portuguese chef to receive this accolade in Portugal.
Belcanto is located on Rua Serpa Pinto, in the Chiado district of Lisbon, at the heart of the city’s historic centre. Having moved earlier this year to a new space next to its previous address, the kitchen and dining room are now closer, to enhance the experience for patrons. The restaurant is situated in a traditional men’s club, converted into the upscale restaurant it is today; expect an intimate vibe typified by blush pinks and vaulted ceilings.
At Belcanto, José Avillez offers contemporary Portuguese cuisine in a sophisticated and comfortable setting that takes us on a journey in time, from Chiado’s old romantic feel to the future. In a place full of details, where art and memories share the space, José Avillez offers a unique sensory and gastronomic journey
www.joseavillez.pt Tel: +351 213 420 607
The other Iberian restaurants placed within the list are:
Number 3 – Asador Extebarri, Atxondo, Spain
Number 5 – Disfrutar, Barcelona, Spain
Number 14 – Mugaritz, San Sebastian, Spain
Number 16 – Elkano, Getaria, Spain
Number 20 – Diverxo, Madrid, Spain
Number 49 – Azurmendi, Larrabetzu, Spain
