Ola O.
Google
I had high expectations for Seen, especially as it came highly recommended, and I wanted it to be a memorable send-off from Lisbon. Unfortunately, my experience was overshadowed by disappointing treatment at the entrance.
When I arrived, dressed nicely in a chic top, jeans, and elegant Tory Burch leather sandals (with straps at the back), the hostess asked if I had a reservation to which I responded that I did not, then she looked me up and down before telling me my footwear didn’t meet their “chic” dress code. I was taken aback, especially since my sandals were far from casual. The security staff agreed with her, saying I could only be admitted if I changed shoes. Hoping to still enjoy the evening, I asked if sneakers would work because I saw some folks wearing sandals, and they said yes—ironically, sneakers are far less stylish than the sandals I was wearing.
I took an Uber back to my hotel, changed, and returned. To my surprise and disappointment, a white woman directly ahead of me was wearing slippers and was allowed in without question. When I raised the inconsistency and clear double standard, the hostess brushed it off, saying she had just switched desks and wasn’t the one who turned me away earlier. The security staff who witnessed it all said nothing other than confirming it was “a different lady.”
This inconsistency and discriminatory treatment left a sour taste. While the food itself was delicious and the restaurant’s setting is beautiful, the experience of being singled out and unfairly treated overshadowed everything else. In 2025, it is deeply disappointing that such behavior happens at a restaurant of this caliber.
I cannot recommend Seen Lisbon, not because of the food, but because no dining experience no matter how good should come with prejudice.