Book Private Dining Rooms in Lisbon

1) The Style of Private Dining Rooms in Lisbon

If you thought that you would be hosting your private dining experience in Lisbon in a restaurant, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The city boasts various styles of private dining rooms that are experiential, unique, and beautifully designed,

1. Terrace spaces: Lisbon has an undisputed love affair with sunshine, and the ample styles of terrace spaces for private dining in Lisbon are proof of that. Whether they’re perched on rooftops, nestled in gardens, or set sky-high with gorgeous views of the city, if you’re looking for an alfresco private dining space in Lisbon, you’ll probably love these terrace spaces as much as the locals love the sunshine!
2. Concept venues: Some private dining locations in Lisbon are not just about the food and the company. The city has several concept venues that are a playground for creativity. These event venues take private dining to a whole new level by providing an immersive experience. Imagine hosting your event at an old foundry or theatre from 1837. Or how about an attractive restaurant with raw interiors? Well, in Lisbon, you don’t have to imagine it, you can do it!
3. Outdoor spaces: The perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the outdoor private dining spaces in Lisbon allow you to host your event in the lap of nature. Celebrate the charm of the outdoors in lush gardens, courtyards, or even rooftop spaces.
4. Historic venues: For those who are looking to add a touch of history to their dining experience, Lisbon's historic venues are a treasure trove of stories. These settings transport you to a bygone era, with century-old architecture, cobblestone courtyards, and antique furnishings. If you’re planning on throwing a party fit for royalty, you know where to look!
5. Floating restaurants: Lisbon's proximity to the Tagus River offers a unique opportunity for private dining on the water. Floating restaurants, set on stylish yachts or traditional "cacilheiros" (ferryboats), provide a captivating backdrop for your event. Guests can indulge in a sumptuous meal while the cityscape glides by, illuminated by the setting sun or the sparkling city lights. 

Bonus reading: Check out these stunning private party venues in Lisbon that are sure to elevate your private dining space to the next level.

2) The Best Areas for Private Dining Experiences in Lisbon

Now you’re probably thinking, where will you find all these fabulous event venues in Lisbon? Well, hold your horses, because this guide to private dining rooms in Lisbon has that covered as well!

1. Alfama: Let’s start with a little walk back in time with Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama. This quaint area sets the tone for a lovely private dining experience with its narrow, winding streets, historic buildings, and stunning views of the Tagus River. Private dining venues in Alfama often exude a sense of rustic authenticity. So, if you want a neighbourhood where you can serve your guests dinner with a side of Lisbon’s rich history, you’ll love Alfama.
2. Bairro Alto: For those looking to add a touch of bohemian spirit into their private dining experience, Bairro Alto is the place to be. By day, it's a quiet, picturesque neighbourhood with narrow streets and historic buildings. By night, it transforms into Lisbon's nightlife epicentre. Private dining venues here offer a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere. From trendy rooftop bars with panoramic city views to cosy, candlelit restaurants tucked away in quiet corners, Bairro Alto combines Lisbon's artistic flair with a lively ambience.
3. Chiado: If classy is the vibe you’re after, look no further than Chiado. Often referred to as Lisbon's cultural and shopping hub, this neighbourhood is known for its elegant boulevards, upscale boutiques, and iconic cafes. Private dining in Chiado is served with sophistication. Choose from upscale restaurants with gourmet cuisine and fine wines or opt for intimate event venues where you can cater to your preference.
4. Parque das Nações: For a more contemporary private dining experience, Parque das Nações, with its modern architecture and waterfront location, is an ideal choice. Here, you can find stylish restaurants and event venues with a futuristic edge. Private dining venues often feature panoramic views of the river and the striking Vasco da Gama Bridge. Trust us, this is a sight your guests will always remember!
5. Belém: This historic neighbourhood might be a striking contrast to Parque das Nações but is an equally good area for private dining in Lisbon. It not only has event venues with riverfront views and iconic landmarks, it’s also home to the stunning Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery. Private dining venues in Belém often overlook the tranquil waters of the Tagus River, providing a picturesque backdrop for events.

3) How Much Will a Private Dining Venue in Lisbon Cost?

As much as we’d like to go all out when looking for private dining rooms for hire in Lisbon, as every seasoned event planner knows, budgeting is the key to event planning. Here’s an approximate estimate of how much a private dining venue in Lisbon will cost.

• Basic private dining rooms: For those on a budget or looking for more straightforward options, basic private dining rooms in Lisbon typically start at around €20 to €50 per person. 
• Mid-range venues: Mid-range private dining venues in Lisbon offer a balance between affordability and quality. Prices in this category can range from €50 to €150 per person.
• Premium private dining spaces: For those seeking the utmost in luxury and sophistication, premium private dining spaces in Lisbon come with a higher price tag, starting at around €150 per person and going upwards. 

Additional costs to consider:

• Food and Beverage Costs: Basic menus start at around €20 per person but this can go up to €100+ per person depending on the quality of your food and beverages.
• Service charge or gratuity: Many restaurants and venues in Lisbon include a service charge of around 10% to 15% in the final bill for large group events. However, it's essential to confirm this with the venue in advance.
• Beverage packages: Beverage packages, including wine, beer, and soft drinks, can range from €20 to €50 per person for basic packages. If you're interested in premium wine selections or signature cocktails, the cost may increase to €50 to €100 per person or more.
• Additional services: Additional services such as audiovisual equipment, decor, flowers, and photography can vary significantly based on your specific requirements. These costs can range from a few hundred euros to several thousand euros, depending on what you choose.
• Transportation: If you plan to use public transport in Lisbon, you can budget between €10 to €60 per person.
• Personalisation and entertainment: This can vary widely based on your choices. For example, hiring a live band or DJ for a few hours can range from €500 to €2,000 or more. 

Pro-tip: Make your private dining location in Lisbon stand out whatever your budget is by booking one of these unique group dining venues in Lisbon.

4) What Cuisine to Include for Your Private Dining in Lisbon

When it comes to cuisine for your private dining location in Lisbon, we have both good news and bad news. The good news is, the food in Lisbon is excellent so you’ll have plenty of variety to choose from. The bad news is, that making a decision can be tough! To make this a little easier for you, here are some of the most popular cuisines in Lisbon.

1. Portuguese cuisine: Let’s start with the obvious one. After all, you can’t come to Lisbon and not try the local food. Lisbon has several delicious and popular dishes that you can include in your event catering menu. 

Some of our favourites are bacalhau à brás (codfish with scrambled eggs and potatoes), pastéis de bacalhau (codfish fritters), and feijoada (a hearty bean stew). Don't forget to include a selection of Portuguese cheeses, olives, and wines to give your guests a true taste of the country.

2. Seafood: Okay, we know this isn’t exactly a cuisine but given Lisbon’s proximity to the sea, it’s a must-have when in Lisbon. You can have a seafood-centric menu with dishes like grilled sardines, shrimp Mozambique-style, or arroz de marisco (seafood rice). 

Lisbon's seafood is renowned for its freshness and flavour, making it an excellent choice for a private dining event with a coastal touch. However, be mindful of allergies and dietary restrictions while planning a seafood-centric menu.

3. Vegetarian and vegan cuisine: Speaking of dietary restrictions, if most of your guests are plant-based, you’ll be happy to know that Lisbon offers a growing array of vegetarian and vegan options. Include dishes like grilled vegetable platters, chickpea stew, or vegan versions of traditional Portuguese dishes to ensure that there’s something for everyone to eat.

4. Fusion dishes: Lisbon's dining scene is not confined to Portuguese traditions alone. The city is home to a vibrant fusion food culture that blends influences from around the world. Work with your event caterer to plan a fusion menu that combines Portuguese ingredients with international flavours, such as Portuguese-Asian fusion with dishes like tempura-battered fish with a chilli-infused dipping sauce.

5. Desserts: Lisbon is celebrated for its delectable pastries, and no private dining event would be complete without indulging in these sweet treats. Include pastéis de nata (custard tarts), bolo de arroz (rice cakes), or a selection of artisanal chocolates and desserts to provide a memorable sweet ending to your meal.

Bonus reading: Be a Lisbon food expert and know exactly what to ask your event caterer by referring to the ultimate Lisbon food guide.

Wrapping Up

We’re sure you’re pretty hungry now so we’re going to end our guide to hosting a private dining event in Lisbon right here. If there’s anything else you need to know, simply use our Ask Expert function and our local team will help you out.