Lisbon: Dinner with Fado Show with the Rising Stars of Fado

If you’re looking to add a soulful touch to your Lisbon trip, a dinner with a Fado show at Canto do Poeta promises an evening full of emotion, culture, and delicious food. While we haven’t personally sat in the audience, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of an experience that combines Portugal’s musical heritage with intimate hospitality.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the live performances feature both seasoned and up-and-coming Fado singers, delivering vocals that can move even the most stoic. Second, the Portuguese cuisine is praised for its quality and authenticity, offering a true taste of local flavors. Third, the historic venue in Lisbon’s Alfama neighborhood adds a charming, authentic atmosphere.

The only consideration? Some reviews mention the venue can feel a bit crowded or stuffy, especially during peak times. This experience suits those eager to enjoy an authentic cultural night out—perfect for music lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting a genuine slice of Lisbon’s soul.

Key Points

• Authentic Fado Performances: Live music by top and emerging fadistas creates a heartfelt listening experience.
• Traditional Portuguese Cuisine: Well-presented dishes featuring local ingredients offer real taste and comfort.
• Intimate Historic Venue: Located in Alfama, the cozy setting elevates the emotional connection to the music.
• Value for Money: Combining dinner and entertainment makes for a memorable night at a reasonable price.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty.
• Charming Atmosphere: Walls adorned with poetic quotes and a warm ambiance make each visit special.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting: Canto do Poeta in Alfama

The venue itself is a key part of the charm. Tucked into the narrow streets of Lisbon’s historic Alfama district, Canto do Poeta is a cozy, welcoming space that feels more like a friend’s living room than a tourist trap. Its walls are decorated with poems from classic Fado authors, creating an atmosphere that’s both inspiring and intimate, ideal for emotional music.

Guests typically arrive in the early evening, with the experience lasting about three hours. The venue tends to be small—around 20 people or fewer—which guarantees close-up views of both the performers and the details of their craft. From reviews, we know that the staff, including hosts Bruno and Joao, are friendly and attentive, giving the experience a personal touch.

The Performances: Fado by Rising and Established Talents

The highlight of the evening is undoubtedly the Fado performances. Guests can expect to hear a mix of seasoned singers and promising new voices, with each performance lasting about 15 minutes, split into three sets. According to reviews, the singers are highly talented, projecting voices effortlessly without microphones, which adds to the authenticity.

One guest mentioned that the performances are “memorizing,” with the singers able to evoke deep emotion through their singing and guitar accompaniment. The Portuguese guitars and violas add a vital layer to the music, vibrating with each note, making every song feel alive.

Reviews suggest that the musicians’ skill level is impressive—one reviewer described the performances as “phenomenal,” highlighting the vocal power and guitar work. The performances are not rushed, allowing guests to truly connect with the melodies and lyrics, often poetic and heartfelt.

The Food: Portuguese Culinary Delights

The dining component is a significant part of the package. The menu varies, but reviewers consistently praise the quality and variety of the dishes. Expect traditional Portuguese fare, such as petiscos (tapas-style plates), cold melon soup with prosciutto, and other local favorites.

One review notes that the dishes are well-presented and use local ingredients, making them both authentic and flavorful. Portions are described as “not too large,” which allows for tasting multiple dishes without feeling overly full, perfect for pairing with the wine offered.

The wine selection is generally well-received, with some reviewers commenting that the wine complements the food and music beautifully. Spirits and cocktails are available for purchase separately, so if you’re craving something stronger, you can indulge.

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Atmosphere and Experience

Walking into Canto do Poeta, you immediately feel transported to a different time and place. The cozy, warm environment with dim lighting and poetic decor encourages you to relax and let the music wash over you. Several reviews mention that the walls adorned with poetry and the intimate setting make the evening feel like a private concert.

While some guests find the space a little crowded or warm, this is often seen as part of the charm—a bustling, lively environment that enhances the authenticity of the experience.

Practical Details: Timing, Cost, and Accessibility

The tour lasts about three hours, with dinner and performances scheduled to start at various times—be sure to check availability for your preferred date. Pricing is considered reasonable, especially since it includes a full dinner, live music, and wine, offering good value compared to standalone shows.

Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is perfect for travelers with unpredictable schedules or those wanting to lock in a memorable night without immediate payment.

Getting to Canto do Poeta is straightforward, especially from central Lisbon or the metro stations nearby. The venue’s location in Alfama makes it a good after-dinner stroll through one of Lisbon’s most atmospheric neighborhoods.

Authenticity and Cultural Significance

Many reviews emphasize that this experience offers a genuine taste of Lisbon’s musical soul. Instead of staged or commercialized shows, this venue hosts performers who genuinely love the art of Fado, which translates into heartfelt singing and authentic interactions.

Several guests mentioned that the performers’ talent and the emotional depth of the music left a lasting impression—something you can’t get from a touristy concert. The inclusion of new rising stars alongside established singers makes for a vibrant, evolving scene that reflects current trends in Fado.

The Review Insights

• One guest described it as “such a beautiful show,” praising both the amazing food and the emotional singing.
• Another highlighted the excellent service, noting that staff went out of their way to ensure a memorable evening.
• Several reviews mention the experience as perfect for special occasions like birthdays, with the staff singing in Portuguese and creating a festive atmosphere.
• A few mention that the food quantities are modest, but the quality more than compensates, especially when paired with the wine.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for music lovers eager to see live Fado performed authentically. It’s also perfect for foodies who appreciate traditional Portuguese cuisine and want a cultural night out.

Travelers who enjoy intimate venues and want a genuine connection with local art and history will find this experience rewarding. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for an immersive cultural activity.

However, if you prefer a longer, more elaborate show or a large-scale concert, this might feel a bit cozy. Also, consider the crowd during peak times—if you’re sensitive to crowded spaces, arriving early might improve your comfort.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This experience delivers a balanced blend of culture, cuisine, and music, making it a highly recommended activity for those wanting an authentic taste of Lisbon. The talented performers, delicious traditional dishes, and intimate setting combine to create a memorable evening that captures the heart of Portuguese culture.

The value is clear—dinner, wine, and a live Fado show for around three hours offers a full, emotionally resonant night out, especially considering the reviews praising the top-notch talent and ambiance. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking to connect with Lisbon’s musical soul without breaking the bank.

The experience is most suited for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a genuine, heartfelt night in Portugal’s capital. It’s a chance to witness Fado performed with passion in a setting that feels both historic and personal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
While the menu includes traditional Portuguese dishes, some reviewers note the main courses are meat or fish-based. If dietary restrictions are a concern, it’s best to inquire beforehand to confirm available options.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including dinner, wine, and live performances. Check specific starting times when booking.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund. This offers flexibility if your plans change.

Is there alcohol available?
Yes, wine is included with the dinner, and spirits or cocktails can be purchased separately during the evening.

How do I get to the venue?
Canto do Poeta is located in the Estrela neighborhood, easily accessible via Lisbon’s metro system. It’s a short walk from the nearest stations, making it convenient even with luggage or after a day touring.

Is this experience appropriate for special occasions?
Many guests have celebrated birthdays here, and staff often participate in making the night memorable, including singing Happy Birthday in Portuguese. It’s a charming setting for small celebrations.

This dinner with a Fado show at Canto do Poeta offers a window into Lisbon’s heart—combining heartfelt music, local flavors, and a warm, authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, it’s a memorable way to experience Portugal’s musical soul.

You can check availability for your dates here: