Bar
Tasca Mastai
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Tasca Mastai is a quintessential Lisbon tasca (tavern) tucked away on Rua da Rosa, in the heart of the bohemian Bairro Alto district. The bar exudes old-world charm with its tiled walls, wooden barrels, and a long counter where locals and travelers alike gather for a glass of ginjinha, a sour cherry liqueur served in a small chocolate cup. The atmosphere is convivial and unpretentious, with fado music playing softly in the background. Besides the signature drink, they offer a selection of Portuguese petiscos (small plates) like pastéis de bacalhau, chouriço assado, and queijo da serra. The bar's narrow interior often spills onto the street, especially on warm evenings, creating a vibrant street-party vibe that defines Bairro Alto's nightlife.
Don't miss
- Order a ginjinha in a chocolate cup, a Lisbon tradition that combines liqueur and dessert in one
- Sample the petiscos menu, especially the grilled chouriço flambéed in aguardente
- Listen to live fado performances on Thursday and Saturday evenings
- Chat with the owner, who often shares stories about the bar's history and the neighborhood
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Tasca Mastai
You can visit on your own (no entry fee; pay for drinks and food as you order). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inPrivate Lisbon Sightseeing Tuk-Tuk Tour: Alfama, Belém & More4.9★ · 4,848 travelers1–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$16 per personSee dates →
Best full daySintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon4.8★ · 7,687 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$69 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Customizable Tuk-Tuk Tour of Lisbon's Historic Highlights5★ · 537 travelers2–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$29 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- The bar gets very crowded after 10 PM; arrive early to secure a spot at the counter.
- Cash is king here; cards are not accepted.
- Fado performances are intimate and often unamplified, respect the artists by keeping conversations quiet.
- Besides ginjinha, try the vinho verde (young green wine), a refreshing local specialty.
A bit of history
The bar opened in 1987, taking over a former grocery store that had been in operation since the 1920s. The name 'Mastai' is a playful twist on 'mastigar' (to chew), reflecting the bar's focus on both drinks and snacks.
Common questions
What is ginjinha?
It's a Portuguese liqueur made from sour cherries (ginja) macerated in aguardente (firewater) with sugar and cinnamon. It's sweet, fruity, and typically served in a shot.
Do they serve food?
Yes, they offer a variety of petiscos, small plates perfect for sharing, like codfish cakes, grilled sausage, and cheese.
Is there a dress code?
No, it's very casual, jeans and a t-shirt are fine.
Can I buy a bottle of ginjinha to take home?
Yes, they sell their own branded bottles of ginjinha at the bar.
Is the bar open during the day?
Yes, it opens at 6 PM and stays open until 2 AM (3 AM on weekends).
Are children allowed?
Yes, but it's primarily an adult-oriented bar; it can get rowdy later in the evening.
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