A Raposa

A certain eccentricity was tangible too at the second place I stayed: The House of the She Pine Tree, eight miles outside Sintra. Run by the d’Eça Leal family, who trace their roots to the founding of Portugal, She Pine is part-guesthouse, part-museum devoted to the owner’s father, Olavo Correia Leite d’Eça Leal, who was, in the words of his son Tomaz, who now runs the house, “a scandalous dandy, a provocative wit, a shocking bohemian”, not to mention painter, poet and playwright who had six children with three wives and a successful career in advertising. His son, Tomaz, has painstakingly rebuilt his father’s collection, buying back paintings and drawings and restoring them to their rightful place in the house.

A Raposa is a hidden gem in Sintra, Portugal, offering an unforgettable experience of amazing food, great atmosphere and excellent service. The interior of the restaurant is reminiscent of a classic British tea house, with intimate tables and a warm and helpful old Portuguese lady serving customers. The chefs are meticulous in their preparation of dishes, ensuring each customer is well taken care of.

Step into a world of nostalgia as you explore the intricately restored rooms adorned with local artwork and antique furnishings. Indulge in a tempting array of delicacies from homemade cakes and pastries to a variety of sandwiches and paninis. Savour the diverse selection of teas, infusions, freshly squeezed juices, and aromatic coffees.

Tem uma sala de refeições requintada onde serve foie gras acompanhado de pão tostado com geleia de marmelada ou carpaccio tropical de salmão fumado com lâminas de manga e de morango, bacalhau à Raposa ou lombo de porco ibérico acompanhado de risoto. Entre o almoço e o jantar, é casa de chá com scones dignos de nota.

A Raposa is a pretty, modern restaurant perfect for a romantic dinner. Although it has contemporary furnishings, the ambience is very cosy and charming, and the meals are exceptional. Although it’s not the cheapest restaurant in Sintra, the quality you get is completely worth every penny you spend.

If you have time and wish for a leisurely refined meal in a magical place, try A Raposa. It tends to keep patrons guessing but in all of the right ways. Tacho Real is another great option tucked high in the historic center.

Try the quirky Restaurant A Raposa, with its stucco ceilings, tasteful murals and equally tasty home-cooked fare or head to the Restaurant GSpot Gastronomia, which is a byword for creativity, flair and culinary perfection.