Palmeira

For over three decades, Restaurante Palmeira was the go-to spot for locals in Olivais. Located on Praça da Viscondessa, this unassuming restaurant with a palm tree out front became a neighborhood institution where families, friends, and neighbors gathered to enjoy simple but excellent grilled meats. The fraldinha was their signature dish, and everyone in the area knew to come here for a reliable, affordable meal in a warm, bairrista atmosphere.

The space has now been taken over by Solar da Gula, led by chef Pedro Soares, a local who grew up eating at Palmeira as a child. While the name and concept have changed, the essence remains intact. The marble floors were preserved during the renovation, and the new menu still centers on traditional Portuguese cuisine, though with more variety than the simple grills of the past. Dishes like roasted cheese with honey, ovos rotos with presunto, and various grilled options reflect Pedro's desire to honor the legacy while bringing his own touch. It's still that same welcoming neighborhood spot, just with a refreshed menu and modern energy.