Maria Caxuxa

"Maria Caxuxa is located inside a former bakery and playfully mixes old and new—there’s a wood-fired oven at the end of the bar, stone arches, and vintage furniture that somehow doesn’t look out of place with the bar’s strobe lights and galaxy-themed wallpaper. Whether you're headed here with a few pals or plan on befriending some strangers, this spot is a fantastic, charming, and centrally located bar where you can dance to ‘90s music and share a bottle or two of Portuguese wine. It’s also one of the best bars in the city to order a caipirinhas, an icy lime and sugar cane liquor drink." - rita geraldes

"Bairro Alto is the epicenter of Lisbon's nightlife—it’s where you’ll find groups of friends hopping around between bars, restaurants, tattoo parlors, and late-night shops. And while many Lisboners have gradually started to seek less-touristy alternatives, you’ll still see locals having a drink or two at Maria Caxuxa. It’s located inside a former bakery and playfully mixes old and new—there’s a wood-fired oven at the end of the bar, stone arches, and vintage furniture that somehow doesn’t look out of place with the bar’s strobe lights and galaxy-themed wallpaper. Whether you're headed here with a few pals or plan on befriending some strangers, this spot is a fantastic, charming, and centrally located bar where you can dance to ‘90s music and share a bottle or two of Portuguese wine. It’s also one of the best bars in the city to order a caipirinhas, an icy lime and sugar cane liquor drink." - Rita Geraldes

"The most popular bar in Bairro Alto This is one of the biggest and most popular bars in Bairro Alto. However, despite having so much space, a crowd still gathers just outside the doors to have a drink and a chat. If you want a seat inside, try to arrive early. Secondhand furniture, antique sofas, and old radios create a retro atmosphere; posters of cultural events hang on the walls and there is an old wood oven as a reminder of the cake factory that used to exist here. The music is mainly electronic or jazz."

"This cake-factory-turned-local-bar has the comfy vibe of a living room furnished by roommates past and present. The myriad tiles, marble, and art present an endearing mishmash of textures and colors. The quirky, homey feel persists even as you squeeze a party of four around a table meant for two. Vintage sofas and live music that includes acoustic guitar and electronica add even more character. While waiting for your capirinha, check out the posters touting upcoming concerts and workshops. The cocktails aren’t groundbreaking, but that’s OK: The mellow community of locals and visitors is the real draw here." - Nicole Antonio

"Plenty of bars will vie for your attention in Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s nightlife hub, but don't overlook Maria Caxuxa. A wood-burning oven and vintage machinery pay homage to the bar’s past—a circa-1946 bakery—bottles are illuminated on bar shelves against the backdrop of a world map; and wallpaper, movie posters, and sofas give the space a cozy, informal feel. A chilled-out alternative to Bairro Alto’s more rambunctious joints, Maria Caxuxa is a good spot for a beer, coffee, or a simple cocktail." - Alia Akkam