"Where the Intellectual Elite Used to Go Another well-known café facing Rossio is Café Nicola. Full of history, tradition, and culture, it was once frequented by Lisbon 's intellectual elite, like the poet Bocage, who was a habitué and now has a statue as a reminder. In existence since 1929, with an art deco façade from 1935, the cafe also serves meals, with two speciality steaks: “Bife à Nicola” and “Bife à Café."
Had the best meal in Lisbon here at Nicola. Random lunch as I was walking around the area late afternoon and found a table in the outdoor patio. Served was very attentive and friendly. And recommended I try the seafood rice in soup (with shell). As a seafood lover, this was the best msal ever! Lots of mussels, clams, shrimps, tiger shrimps and two huge crab claws…and rice in tomato soup like a risotto. I love it so much! Thanks.
LOTUS HOEY
Google
Loved this place, ate there twice with a tour group the 2nd time. Our tour was treated to a Fado in the basement and it was really a fabulous experience. Food was very good and fresh and service was excellent.
Andres Leon
Google
Good service and food.
We ordered the tuna salad and the paella (fyi - Paella is from Spain not from Portugal). Both were delicious.
Only caveat - dishes are super expensive, given the restaurant is part of a tourist trap area in the historical part of Lisbon. To give you an example, the waiter kept pushing on us the bread (comes with a fee), which we kept removing from our table. Also, the waiters tend to ask for tips...
So just a heads up!
Joe DeMattos
Google
The food was fantastic, as was the sidewalk setting. But most importantly, my server Patricia made me feel like family.
Anam
Google
If I could rate this place more than 5 stars I would! Absolutely amazing service from Carminda, we came here a few times and everytime were greeted with a warm friendly service and delicious food! Cannot recommend anymore ! Must must try! They have cute heaters and blankets as well so you can enjoy the outdoor atmosphere in winter.
Monique Gachet
Google
Nicola was recommended to us by our local tuktuk tour guide. Authentic Portuguese food with great service and great location right in the center. Carlos Garçon was our waiter who was very nice and attentive. I ordered the salmon with potatoes and it was so delicious there was nothing left! Highly recommend
Vanetta Dsouza
Google
We had a wonderful time at Nicola. Carlos garcon was amazing. Carlos helped us with the menu and drinks. Geat atmosphere and music !
Ani
Google
Nice place to sit by the sidewalk to have a cup of coffee or cocktails. Luckily we found a seat this time.