When planning a holiday to the Portuguese capital, sampling the local cuisine should always be top of your to-do tourist list. Editor Sophie Ritchie shares why AKLA at InterContinental Lisbon makes an excellent bite for anyone seeking authentic flavours, welcoming staff and swish surroundings
If you’re after something with a little suaveness during your visit to Lisbon, AKLA, tucked away within the luxurious pillars of InterContinental Lisbon makes an excellent evening out. Exuding somewhat of an exclusive feel, this restaurant is ideal for a night of sophistication, styled in attractive, blue and white tiled panels, as well as similar velvety seating and luxe details.
Never judge a menu by its mother – don’t be put off by the fact it’s found within a hotel, as both the food and scenery at AKLA is stunning. Pack something glamorous and park up in one of the many lavish booths – the staff here make you feel like royalty, whilst the dishes place a strong emphasis on Portuguese heritage and storytelling.
The Food & Drink
Hungry after a busy day of exploring the city landmarks, I peruse the menu with the same gusto that I’d imagine a big cat mirrors when observing their prey out in the wild. Plenty of juicy creations are listed on the menu here – especially if you’re a fan of fish. Braised Grouper Fillet, Celery & Nashi Pear Gratin with Truffle, Roasted Codfish with Garlic and Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Yellow Fin Tuna Tartar with Miso and Sesame Seeds Mille-feuille, Sambal Mayonnaise all flutter their eyelids invitingly at a diner.
The dishes here are much more than a list of ingredients thrown together – there’s a small story behind every item, a traceability to the ingredients, a bite of culture with every bowl. Beaming at me and my guest, the staff explain their daily specials and more about the stories behind them – the fish of the day for example, has been sourced from the island of Azores and its beautiful lagoons. The other Portuguese Island, our host tells us knowingly, is of course the birthplace of the most famous footballer on earth (it’s Ronaldo, of course, but that doesn’t stop him saying the name somewhat warily to the female table before him).
I start with the roasted pumpkin soup, presented as a large golden-hued bowl of creamy goodness – ideal for a cozy autumn dish. Made with coconut milk, it’s rich and smooth, topped off with a scattering of toasted cashew nuts for a juxtaposition of textures.
For mains, it’s obvious that it would be nothing short of rude to not order a fish dish here, as the team’s passion and enthusiasm for their menu shines through when talking us through the different options. I throw caution to the wind and opt the meaty grilled octopus, served beautifully with tender branches of white asparagus, chunks of sautéed sweet potatoes and avocado. It’s ideal if you like fish with a mild flavour, each bite gliding through the fork as I make way through the colourful plate.
The Wordrobe Verdict
If you’re after something with a little suaveness, AKLA, tucked away with the luxurious pillars of InterContinental Lisbon makes an excellent evening out. Exuding somewhat of an exclusive feel, this restaurant is ideal for a night of sophistication.
Styled in attractive, blue and white tiled panels, as well as similar velvety seating and luxe details, AKLA combines lavish interiors with a team of well-heeled and attentive staff to create a charmingly intimate dining experience. If you’re a fan of fine dining, it’s time to don your glad rags and pick up a fork.
P.S: Post-meal, head to the newly-renovated bar for a night cap surrounded by ceiling-mounted plasma TV screens and ultra modern interiors. Dressed to the nines, the decor certainly doesn’t disappoint.
Make it happen
How: Find out more and make a booking via iclisbonhotel.com
Where: R. Castilho 149, 1099-034 Lisboa, Portugal
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
