Wine Not? A Review of Lisbon's Top Spot for Wine Lovers

I recently had the chance to check out Wine Not?, a chic little wine bar in the heart of Chiado, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite spots in Lisbon. Opened in 2015, this place is a passion project of João Ribeiro and his wife, Rute, and their connection to Casa Ermelinda Freitas, a famous winery in Palmela, shines through.

First Impressions of the Space

The location couldn’t be better—right in the lively Chiado district, making it easy to find. The vibe inside is modern yet cozy, with sleek décor and just enough of that “wine culture” feel without being too stuffy. There are comfy corners for a more relaxed experience or a lively bar area if you’re in the mood to chat with the staff or other wine lovers. Whether you’re there for a casual drink or a special night out, I love how welcoming it feels.

What’s on the Menu?

One of the best things about Wine Not? is their wine list. It’s all Casa Ermelinda Freitas wines, which is a huge plus if you love trying something local. I went for a green wine that came highly recommended by the waiter, paired with garlic shrimp. Wow. The pairing was spot on—the freshness of the wine was the perfect match for the bold garlic flavors.

They also have tapas, cheese boards, and classic Portuguese bites like croquettes and codfish cakes, so there’s plenty to snack on while you sip.

How’s the Wine?

I was blown away by the quality of the wines here. Everything I tried had a rich, full flavor, and you can tell it’s all carefully selected straight from the vineyards in Palmela. The attention to detail is clear, and every glass feels like a little journey through Portugal’s wine history. The food just elevates the whole experience—especially the cheese boards, which pair perfectly with whatever you’re drinking.

Service That Stands Out

The service at Wine Not? is another thing that sets it apart. The staff are super knowledgeable and friendly, but never pushy. My waiter gave me great wine and food pairing suggestions, and it felt like they genuinely cared about making sure I had the best possible experience. It’s always nice when the service is attentive but still laid-back.

What About Prices?

Price-wise, Wine Not? falls somewhere between mid-priced and high-end. You’re getting quality for your money, especially with the wines, but the tapas and small plates are also pretty reasonable. Even though it’s not the cheapest place in the city, for what you get, it’s absolutely worth it.

Best Time to Visit

I found the atmosphere was a little quieter and more intimate earlier in the day, so if you’re looking for a calm, relaxing experience, I’d suggest popping in for lunch or during off-peak hours. However, if you’re planning a fun get-together with friends or family, or you’re joining a Lisbon food & wine tour, later in the day works just as well—it’s lively without being overwhelming.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Go

If you love wine, or even if you just enjoy a good glass every now and then, you’ve got to check out Wine Not? Whether you’re a local or visiting Lisbon, it’s an awesome spot to dive into Portugal’s wine scene. Great wines, delicious food, an inviting atmosphere, and genuinely friendly service—it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to.

So, next time you’re in Lisbon and craving a special wine experience, I can’t recommend Wine Not? enough. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for Portuguese wines—and maybe a bottle or two to take home!