Pavilhao Chines - Rua D. Pedro V, Principe Real, Lisboa

If you're looking for 'a night at the museum' and something completely OTT which has the X factor - look no further!

Originally founded as a grocery/patisserie dating back to 1901 selling spices from the Far East, the Pavilhao Chines evolved from the same framework and opened its doors in 1986. Its owner did a fantastic job in creating his very own mini-museum and what a collection it is.

This unique and ornate venue is inundated with interesting objects in every nook and cranny and filled to the brim with planes, trains and automobiles - little ones that is. 

As you enter this amazing place you will be welcomed by a life-sized model of a Queen's guard, don't forget to tip him on the way out. The quirky main tea room is crammed with hundreds of Chinese artefacts, dolls, teapots, ceramics, statues and so much more, leading you onto the magnificent main bar.

From there you will find rooms literally overflowing with thousands of miniatures and memorabilia from all around the world, with oil paintings on the ceilings and walls, glass cabinets brimming with military models and helmets and model spitfires hanging from the ceiling too.

Finally hidden away at the back you'll find another bar and huge pool saloon.

What we found really unusual was all the smoke in the air, we're not used to being inside a smoky bar anymore - this definitely took us back in time.

Wonderful chandeliers and an array of comfortable seating is dotted around creating a very atmospheric environment - the surroundings will take you back to a different era, like visiting an old gentleman's club. It can get busy at times but always remains a very relaxed atmosphere.

The illustrative menu book is oozing with delicious alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and quite a variety of coffees and teas to choose from too. The Pavilhao Chines is definitely an interesting spot to visit after a nice dinner. However, later in the evening the door is locked so ring the bell to be let in.

The only downfalls are the grumpy uniformed waiters/bartenders, depending on which way the wind is blowing that day and the fact that it's rather pricey. Putting this aside this charming place is well worth a visit and a cocktail or two.

Located at the top of the Bairro Alto, in the trendy part of Principe Real, it has been a favourite of ours for many years now and we always manage to get a parking space in the square - it just takes a wee while finding one. Don't forget to check the parking restrictions as it is a pay and display zone.

Open 7 days a week - 6pm-2am (Sun from 9pm)

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Photography: beepbeepeurope 
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