Bonjardim: The Hidden Alleyway Chicken Joint Serving the Best Piri-Piri in Lisbon
TL Team Jul 21, 2025
Tai Lopez doesn't hand out superlatives lightly. But after biting into a glistening, skin-crisped half chicken at Bonjardim in Lisbon, he leaned back and said, “Okay, this might just be the best chicken I’ve ever had.” For someone who's tried the best of LA, New York, and even those secret spots in Mexico City, that’s saying a lot.

Bonjardim — or "The King of Chickens" as it proudly declares on its signage — is more than just a tourist hotspot. Nestled down a quiet alleyway just off the busy Restauradores Square, this legendary piri-piri chicken spot has been slinging crispy-skinned birds since 1950. If you're hunting for an authentic taste of Lisbon's fiery culinary legacy, start here.

Welcome to Lisbon: Why This City Keeps Blowing Up

Lisbon, the coastal capital of Portugal, has emerged as one of Europe’s most desirable destinations — and for good reason. Perched along the Atlantic, the city blends old-world charm with a vibrant, creative energy that attracts everyone from backpackers to billionaires. Cobblestone streets, tiled facades, golden-hour miradouros (viewpoints), and an endless supply of fresh seafood make it postcard-perfect.

In recent years, Lisbon has experienced a surge in popularity thanks to its Golden Visa program, which offered residency to foreign investors. That, combined with its relatively low cost of living, mild climate, and fast-growing tech scene, has made it a hotspot for digital nomads and remote workers. Trendy co-working spaces now line the same streets as century-old bakeries.

Yet, despite the wave of international attention, Lisbon retains its soul — steep hills, yellow trams, warm locals, and a deep connection to its culinary traditions. This is a city that knows how to move forward while never forgetting where it came from.



The History of Bonjardim and Portuguese Rotisserie Chicken

Bonjardim has been doing one thing exceptionally well for over 70 years: frango assado com piri-piri, aka spit-roasted chicken with spicy oil. The recipe is simple: quality chicken, a charcoal spit, and the secret weapon — a house-made piri-piri sauce.

Portugal’s love affair with rotisserie chicken has roots in its colonial past. The famed piri-piri chili was brought back from Africa, and the Portuguese adapted it into a uniquely zesty sauce that’s now synonymous with their cuisine. Unlike fast-food takes like Nando’s, Bonjardim's chicken is slow-roasted with care, giving it that rich, smokey flavor.

All About Piri-Piri: What Is It?

Piri-piri (or peri-peri, depending on who you ask) is a chili-based sauce brought to Portugal via its former African colonies. The name comes from the Swahili word for "pepper-pepper." Piri-piri in Portugal is typically an oil-based sauce made from chili, garlic, vinegar, and spices. It’s spicy, tangy, and deeply flavorful. Use liberally, but be aware — it’s got some serious kick.

Piri-Piri vs. Peri-Peri: Same idea, different spellings. "Piri-piri" is the Portuguese version; "peri-peri" is more common in English-speaking countries like the UK and South Africa. But the sauce and method are very similar.

Down the Alley and Into the Fire: Bonjardim’s Vibe, Location & Service

Bonjardim sits tucked into a quiet alleyway just steps from the bustling Restauradores Square — central enough to be convenient, but hidden enough that it almost feels like you’re in on a secret. That said, the location is still very much in a tourist-heavy zone, so expect a mix of international accents and selfie sticks outside.

The vibe? Fast, informal, and tightly packed. This isn’t white-tablecloth dining — this is squeeze-in-where-you-can, get-your-hands-messy, let-the-skin-crisp-do-the-talking kind of food. Inside, it’s old-school Portuguese with vintage tiles and simple wooden tables. There's a cozy upstairs dining room (which might host a private party), and a small outdoor area where you can people-watch while inhaling chicken fumes.

The service is quick and efficient — not overly warm, but not rude either. Reviews online are mixed: some folks complain about pushiness around tipping (which isn’t always expected in Portugal), or mention the hustle to turn tables fast. But Tai didn’t experience any of that. "They were cool, attentive, and got the food out fast," he said. No tip pressure, no stress — just solid service.

Pro tip: go around 6 or 7 PM to beat the heavier dinner crowd. Portuguese locals usually eat closer to 8 or 9, so getting there early can help you skip the line — though even at 7, Tai saw a small queue already forming. It moved quickly, and while waiting, there was even live entertainment outside: musicians and a traditional Portuguese dancer put on a show for diners and passersby.



What Tai Ordered

No surprise here: Tai went for the half spitfire chicken, butter-basted and finished with a slick of spicy piri-piri oil. "It’s buttery, juicy, and not one bite was dry," he said. The crispy skin alone was enough to warrant a second visit.

He added creamy spinach, fries (some of the best he's had in Europe), Portuguese rice, and a tall draft beer. The spinach? Decent. The rice? Soaks up the sauce like a champ. But the fries and the chicken? Those are musts. “Honestly, this is one of those meals you think about weeks later,” Tai said. And he clearly was — he ended up ordering it again through a delivery app just a couple days later.

Menu Highlights at Bonjardim

Bonjardim is all about the chicken — and rightly so — but there’s more to explore on the menu than what Tai tried (though he definitely picked some winners).
  • Piri-Piri Chicken: The undisputed MVP. Go half or whole and ask for extra piri-piri on the side. This is where the magic happens.
     
  • Fries: Tai called them some of the best he’s ever had, and he’s not wrong. Crispy, golden, addictive.
     
  • Creamed Spinach: Creamy and comforting, though opinions vary. A solid veg option if you want to balance the heat.
     
  • Portuguese Rice: Fluffy and perfect for soaking up all that spicy sauce.
     
  • Beer on Tap: Usually Super Bock or Sagres. Cold, crisp, and made for chicken.
     
  • Salads: A light, refreshing option that’s often overlooked. The mixed salad with olives and vinaigrette is great for cutting the richness.
     
  • Grilled Sausages (Linguiça): A smoky, meaty alternative if you want to add variety to your order.
     
  • House Desserts: Think flan, mousse, and simple custards — not flashy, but satisfying.
While Tai focused on the chicken and carbs (who could blame him?), locals also rave about the grilled sausages and simple salads that round out a heavier plate. If you have room, try a dessert or a shot of espresso to finish like a local.

Portuguese Beer & Wine Culture

The Portuguese love their beer — it’s casual, refreshing, and almost always served ice-cold with a meal. You’ll spot locals sipping on a Super Bock or Sagres during lunch, dinner, or anything in between. But here’s the deal: while they enjoy drinking, they definitely don’t enjoy drunkenness. Getting too rowdy is a faux pas, so pace yourself and keep it classy.

That said, Portugal is just as passionate about its wine. From crisp vinho verde to bold reds from the Douro Valley, there's usually a well-priced wine list at even the most casual places — Bonjardim included.

A couple classics to look for:
  • Super Bock: A crisp, slightly hoppy lager that’s hugely popular across the country. It’s the go-to for many locals and pairs perfectly with salty, grilled dishes like piri-piri chicken.
     
  • Sagres: A lighter, ultra-refreshing option that’s ideal for sipping in the sun or with a plate of fries. It’s easygoing, clean, and widely available.
Tai's Ratings:
  • Food: 9.5/10 – The chicken alone earns this.
     
  • Service: 8/10 – Quick and efficient.
     
  • Ambiance: 6.5/10 – Tight and a little chaotic, but charming.
     
  • Location: 7/10 – Central, but a bit hidden and touristy.
     
  • Value: 10/10 – Top-tier food for budget prices.
     
  • Overall: 9/10 – A must-visit if you’re in Lisbon.
Perfect For:
  • Casual dinners with friends who love flavor.
     
  • Solo bites before or after sightseeing.
     
  • Food-focused tourists who want a traditional, no-frills experience.
     
  • Budget-friendly dining without sacrificing taste.
Recap: What to Know Before You Go

Here's a quick refresher on what you need to know before heading to Bonjardim — a few tips and reminders that’ll help you have the best experience possible.
  • Location: Off an alley near Restauradores Square. Easy to miss, but worth the find.
     
  • Ambiance: Tight quarters, fast-paced, noisy in a good way. There’s an upstairs section and some outdoor seating.
     
  • Best Time to Visit: Go around 6 or 7 PM to beat the lines. Locals eat later.
     
  • Hours: Open from noon to 11 PM.
     
  • Pro Tip: Order for pickup if the line's long. Eat it in a nearby square.
     
  • Drinking Tip: The Portuguese enjoy their beer and wine, but getting drunk in public is frowned upon. Sip, savor, and keep it classy.
Lisbon Essentials: Know Before You Go

Lisbon has become one of Europe’s hottest destinations. Known for its hills, pastel buildings, and unbeatable food scene, it’s a mix of tradition and modern creativity. From Pasteis de Nata in Belém to the sardines of Alfama, the city is made for culinary exploration.

Pro Tip: Don’t speak Spanish here. Portuguese is the national language, and locals take pride in their unique culture.

Useful Phrases:

Even though many locals speak English, using a few Portuguese phrases can go a long way in showing respect — and it might even earn you a smile or better service. Here are some helpful ones to know:

"Hello": Olá

"Thank you very much": Muito obrigado/a

"Please, can I have...?": Por favor, posso ter...?

"I would like some chicken, please": Quero frango, por favor

"A beer, please": Uma cerveja, por favor

"That sauce is spicy!": Esse molho é picante!

A Food Tour Through Lisbon

Lisbon isn’t just about piri-piri chicken. The city is home to a wide range of traditional dishes that reflect its rich culinary heritage. If you're ready to explore beyond the grill, here are a few must-try bites and the best places to find them:
  • Bifana: Pork sandwich soaked in garlic sauce. Try it at O Trevo in Praça Luís de Camões — even Anthony Bourdain gave it his stamp of approval.
     
  • Pasteis de Nata: Custard tarts from heaven. Get the original at Pastéis de Belém, or the arguably better version at Manteigaria in Chiado.
     
  • Sardines: Grilled to perfection. Best enjoyed during Lisbon’s June festivals, but you can find them year-round at Casa da Índia or Zé da Mouraria.
     
  • Cozido à Portuguesa: Traditional meat stew. A hearty, stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish. Try it at Laurentina – O Rei do Bacalhau for an authentic version.
Ginja Time: Lisbon’s Sweet Cherry Secret

Lisbon isn't just a food city — it also boasts its fair share of traditional drinks, and none is more iconic than Ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur that packs a punch. It’s served in a tiny shot glass and often enjoyed before or after a meal — especially by locals winding down their day or tourists finishing up a hearty plate of frango.

Right near Bonjardim are two of the most famous Ginjinha stands in the city: Ginjinha Sem Rival and A Ginjinha. Of the two, A Ginjinha is especially iconic — it's small, always busy, and cash only. The staff aren’t the friendliest, so don’t expect much chit-chat. Just line up, hand over a euro or two, and choose: com ginja (with a cherry) or sem ginja (without). Most locals go for the cherry — it’s part of the charm. Just be careful — there's a pit inside that can catch you off guard if you’re not expecting it!

It’s a quick but essential Lisbon experience. And yes, even though the pour is small, it’s strong — so take it easy if you’ve already had a couple beers with your chicken.

Chicken Crawl: Other Frango Joints Worth Checking Out

Can’t get into Bonjardim? Or maybe you just can’t get enough of that juicy, crispy-skinned Portuguese frango? Good news: Lisbon has its fair share of rotisserie chicken joints that locals love and visitors should absolutely add to their list. Here are a few to hit if you’re down to do a little chicken crawl:
  • O Churrasco (Alfama): Slightly less touristy, still authentic.
     
  • A Valenciana: Known by locals as one of the best.
     
  • Frangasqueira Nacional: A modern twist on the classic spitfire chicken.
Make a Day of It: What to Do Nearby

Lisbon has a way of packing the best views, eats, and drinks into one perfect day — and this itinerary does exactly that. Whether you're sipping coffee with a view, munching on iconic bites, or chasing sunset from a rooftop, here’s how to fit in some of the city’s greatest hits around your Bonjardim visit:
  • Morning: Grab a pastel de nata and espresso at Manteigaria.
     
  • Midday: Head to Time Out Market for a variety of local dishes.
     
  • Dinner: Bonjardim for the frango.
     
  • After Dinner: Ginjinha shots nearby.
     
  • Nightcap: Walk over to Bairro Alto for rooftop bars and views.
Tai's Final Thoughts

Bonjardim doesn’t look like much from the outside. It’s tucked away, crowded, and a little chaotic. But if you judge it by the quality of the chicken, it’s one of the best meals you’ll have in Lisbon. Juicy, buttery, and deeply flavorful — this is the piri-piri experience elevated.

As Tai said, "If I lived in Lisbon, I’d be here once a week."

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