LF Says: ★★★★.5
A city that excels in making the most of what it's got, Lisbon has a roster of rooftop bars that's second to none, capitalizing on its growing skyline and reliably compelling views. About two decades ago, most rooftop bars fell into predictable norms: stuffy hotel lounges, or crowded after-work spots. But today, there's a delightful range and the Sky Bar at the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade (member of the Leading Hotels of the World) tops the list.
With St. Jorge's castle to the left, the River Tagus in the background and the Lisbon skyline at your feet, the scenic view captures your senses as soon as you step into the bar. It is hard to imagine a better vantage point of the unmatched city skyline than from just across the river on the top floor of the prestigious property.
Look around and you’ll find a slick yet frisky lounge, but it’s all a backdrop to the lively vista that has become unique to Lisbon. Drinks and service are excellent, truly matching up to the exemplary LHW standards, but the Sky Bar is more sophisticated than just about any rooftop bar out there. It's classy without being overwrought and yet maintains a chic and exuberant demeanour.
I loved the 1920s aesthetic with a full blown pop-art wall, clean white lines with wooden flooring and a striking white disc shaped central bar. Cocktails are creative without being pretentious, the price points are reasonable, seating is ample, service is top-notch, and advanced reservations are easily available.
It’s an ideal place for late afternoons and warm evenings for couples and tourists to sip through their excellent coffee and tea menu (the Moroccan Mint Tea was my favourite) musing to the tunes of the resident DJ Nebur. One can also indulge in some truly delectable snacks. New this year are their churros with BBQ sauce, prawn gyozas with wasabi mayonnaise and soft shell crab deep fried in breadcrumbs, plus spicy sausage balls and deep fried prawns. I savoured the quinoa salad, herb focaccia with baked vegetables.
A few of their popular cocktails are the Royal Sky Cosmo, Moscow Mule, Cuba Libre and a choice of champagne based cocktails such as Champagne Lover’s. Try the exceptional Vinho Verde (Portuguese Wine) chased with their enviable assortment of old blended Whiskey.
All in all the Sky Bar makes for a spectacular way to commence or conclude your unforgettable Lisbon Story.
LF Says: ★★★★.5
Coordinates: Av. da Liberdade 185, 1269-050 Lisboa, Portugal
T: +351 213 198 832 | skybar@tivolihotels.com
