BRILHANTE LISBOA: BRINGING BACK BELLE ÉPOQUE GLAMOUR
words by NATALIE GAL
Located in the lively Cais do Sodré district of Lisbon, Brilhante is a stylish and elegant restaurant inspired by the charm of Parisian brasseries. Its centrepiece is a striking stone counter with 26 seats, surrounded by dark woods, brass, leather, and rich velvet. The space glows with red and gold tones, creating a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere.
Stepping inside feels like being transported into a scene from the Belle Époque — the turn-of-the-century is captured in the warmth of twinkling lights. It evokes the extravagance of Maxim’s in Paris during the 1880s and ’90s, a place so saturated in grandeur, so defining for hospitality and indulgence ever since.
The restaurant also features a well-stocked bar with over 60 whiskies, adding to its charm and appeal. The menu at Brilhante is led by chef Luís Gaspar, with support from resident chef Tiago Ribeiro. Chef Gaspar brings a wealth of experience and passion to the kitchen, having worked in several acclaimed restaurants in Lisbon. Together, they offer a refined take on classic French and international cuisine.
The standout dish is the Brilhante Steak, inspired by the traditional Marrare Steak served in Lisbon cafés in the 19th century. This dish, created by Neapolitan cook António Marrare in the late 1700s, has been reimagined with a modern twist while preserving its classic roots. Served with a fried egg and a special sauce, the dish offers a nod to tradition with a new, special flavour profile.
Lisbon is the only other city where I’ve felt what Paris stands for — that romantic kind of freedom you just fall in love with. Hemingway called Paris a moveable feast — and he was absolutely right. It moves, it travels, it inspires — just as it did here. Brilhante stands out not just for its food but for the complete experience it offers. With the elegant interiors, the thoughtful menu and whisky bar, everything has been crafted to transport us to a place of timeless sophistication.
