in Lisbon – Portugal

Nestled beside the Lisbon Cruise Terminal in a sleek, glass-fronted building, Marlene is far more than just a restaurant—it is the culmination of a deeply personal and professional journey. The space itself is striking: a central open kitchen takes centre stage, surrounded by a counter that blurs the line between performance and preparation. This layout reflects a philosophy of openness and connection, where the process is as integral as the result.

The Story Behind the Name
The restaurant is the namesake project of Marlene Vieira, a chef whose roots in Portuguese cuisine run deep. Her relationship with cooking began at the age of twelve, shaped by family traditions and a profound respect for local ingredients. Over the years, Marlene has become a prominent figure in Lisbon’s culinary scene, first gaining recognition with the opening of Avenue in 2012 and later with her popular stall at the Time Out Market. With Marlene, she marks her confident return to fine dining—a space she reclaims with vision and authenticity.
Opened in 2022, the restaurant quickly established itself as a place of evolution and expression. Even the name, ending with a comma, hints at an ongoing story—one that continues to unfold with each season and each service. Every detail, from handcrafted knives to the cornbread recipe passed down from her grandmother, tells a part of this narrative.

Dining as Theatre
Seating wraps around the kitchen, creating an immersive experience. When the restaurant is quiet, this proximity can feel a little intense—diners are acutely aware of the chefs’ focus. But as the space fills, the atmosphere transforms into a lively, convivial stage where culinary artistry takes place in real time. Watching the team at work is part of the charm: the young pastry chef, for example, prepares desserts with unwavering concentration, only to reveal a warm, friendly smile once the task is complete—a delightful contrast that adds character to the experience.

On the Plate
Although this was only our second gastronomic stop of the year, it already feels like we’ve encountered two of its highlights: the shrimp with XO sauce and the blue lobster in green curry. The shrimp dish was nothing short of magical—though the caviar garnish felt unnecessary, adding little to the overall flavour. The lobster, meanwhile, was a triumph, marrying Portuguese sensibilities with global influences in a way that feels fresh yet rooted.
The sheer number of staff is noticeable, but it contributes to a seamless service and an atmosphere of precision. Combined with genuine friendliness, it makes Marlene a standout in Lisbon’s fine-dining landscape.

A Note on Tipping
One small caveat: the creeping influence of American tipping culture. The bill presents two amounts—the total and a suggested gratuity—which feels somewhat out of place in Portugal’s dining tradition. While optional, it’s a detail that may not sit well with every guest

Verdict: Marlene is more than a restaurant; it’s a narrative told through space, flavour, and craft. For those seeking a dining experience that blends Portuguese heritage with contemporary flair, this is a destination worth savouring.

Chef: Marlene Vieira
Date of visit: January 15th 2026
Website: http://www.marlene.pt
Michelin: 1 star