A Severa: Experience True Fado, Lisbon Portugal

While traveling through foreign countries, I believe the best way to find out what to do, see or eat, is to ask the locals.

I was in a crazy taxi ride (those who have been to Lisbon can probably relate) and the cab driver filled me in about his love for traditional Portuguese music called Fado. Before I knew it, he was driving me to his favorite Fado spot – A Severa- situated in the middle of Bairro Alto.

The men at the door looked surprised when I confessed I didn’t have a reservation, luckily there was one more table free. I recommend reservations, as I was soon to find out this was one of the most popular places in Lisbon to hear Fado, all by candle light. A Severa has been open since 1955 and is the oldest family owned Fado house in Lisbon. The restaurant is pretty pricey, but it’s important to remember that you are not only paying for dinner, but a performance as well.