Ginginha do Carmo Review

If you find yourself wandering through Lisbon’s historic center, make sure to stop by Ginginha do Carmo—a tiny, unassuming bar that has a big place in my heart. This little gem is right under the stairs that lead down to Rossio, and it’s the perfect spot to grab a quick, traditional ginjinha—the iconic Portuguese cherry liqueur.

The best part? They serve it in a chocolate cup. Yes, you read that right! The moment I first popped in, I was greeted by a no-frills counter, the warm bustle of locals, and the sweetest surprise: the rich, cherry liqueur paired with a decadent chocolate cup. And the even better part? You get a free refill. It’s the kind of place where the charm is in its simplicity, and once you’ve had a sip (or two), you’ll understand why it’s one of the most beloved stops in the city.

Location and Ambiance

Let’s be real: this place is tiny. You’re not going to find a seat or a place to lounge. It’s a stand-up kind of spot—literally. There’s room for maybe three people inside, so it’s perfect if you just want a quick drink and to keep exploring. But the location? Perfect. It’s just down from Carmo Square, right under the stairs that lead up to Rossio, so it’s a stop you can’t miss as you wander through the heart of Lisbon.

The vibe is relaxed and easy-going. The exterior doesn’t scream “bar,” but it’s hard to ignore once you get closer. If you’re lucky, you can snag one of the small tables outside for a second, but this place is all about ginjinha on the go, and that’s what makes it feel so authentic.

Signature Drink and Menu Overview

There’s no menu to sift through here. They’ve got one thing, and one thing only: ginjinha. And trust me, it’s the best place to try it. You can get it with or without a cherry, but why would you want to skip that extra bit of tradition? Plus, the chocolate cup is a game-changer. 

I’ve tried it both with and without the cup, and I’ll tell you this: the chocolate cup makes it. The rich cherry liqueur pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the chocolate, and every time I take a sip, it’s like a mini celebration.

For less than €2, you get a taste of Lisbon with a sweet twist—and you can do it all over again.

Quality and Taste

Now, if you’ve had ginjinha before, you might be wondering: is there something different about this one? Honestly, the base drink is the same as what you’ll find at other spots around Lisbon, but the experience here is unbeatable. It’s made with the same traditional methods, but the real magic is in the chocolate cup and the service.

The cherry liqueur itself is smooth, with that sweet, tangy punch that makes it a local favorite. It’s a warm, cozy drink—perfect for Lisbon’s sometimes chilly evenings—and it’s no wonder this little bar has become a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.

Service and Experience

 

What I love about Ginginha do Carmo is how quick and efficient the service is. It’s not the kind of place where you sit down and have a leisurely chat. It’s a place to pop in, grab your ginjinha (with a chocolate cup, obviously), and go. Even though the space is small, the service never feels rushed. You’re in and out with a smile, and that’s part of the charm.

It doesn’t matter how busy it gets; the pace here is always fast, but friendly. The staff isn’t going to chat you up, but they’re quick to get you your drink and keep things moving. And trust me, you’ll be back for more.

When to Visit

Honestly, there’s no “best time” to visit Ginginha do Carmo—it’s always a good time. The place doesn’t have a set crowd or peak hours because it’s just a stop-by kind of place. People pop in throughout the day, grabbing their shot of ginjinha as they explore Lisbon’s streets.

That said, if you want to catch the local vibe, I’d recommend stopping by in the late afternoon or early evening when people are out for a drink before dinner. Either way, it’s a great pit stop no matter when you pass by.

Why Visit Ginginha do Carmo?

If you’re in Lisbon, Ginginha do Carmo is an absolute must. This isn’t just a bar—it’s a tradition. It’s one of the best places to experience ginjinha in its purest form. Plus, it’s a quintessential Lisbon experience. If you’re a foodie, a drink-lover, or just someone looking for a true taste of the city, you can’t go wrong here.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Would I recommend Ginginha do Carmo? Absolutely. Whether you’re a first-time visitor on an underground Lisbon food tour or a local looking for a quick, authentic drink, this is one stop you won’t want to miss. 

The ginjinha is sweet, the chocolate cup is a fun twist, and the vibe is pure Lisbon.

It’s the kind of place you’ll revisit over and over again because it’s not just about the drink—it’s about the whole experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can non-alcoholic drinkers still enjoy a visit to Ginginha do Carmo? Unfortunately, there are no non-alcoholic options, but you can still enjoy the experience (and the chocolate cup!).
• Can I purchase a bottle of Ginjinha to take home? Yes! Grab a bottle of ginjinha to bring a taste of Lisbon back with you.