Ginjinha & Other Drinks
Ginjinha (or Ginja) is Lisbon's signature drink: a sour cherry liqueur that has been served in small bars in the Rossio district since 1840. The liqueur is made from Ginja cherries (a type of sour cherry) that are steeped for months in Aguardente (brandy) with sugar and cinnamon.
Traditionally, Ginjinha is drunk at a standing counter—a small cup for 1.50–2 €—with one crucial question: "Com elas ou sem elas?" (With them or without them?) Referring to the pickled cherries at the bottom of the cup. The correct answer: "Com elas"—the alcohol-soaked cherries are the best part.
The most famous Ginjinha bars in Lisbon are A Ginjinha (since 1840, at Largo de São Domingos) and Ginjinha Sem Rival (directly opposite). Ginjinha is also famous in Óbidos—there it is served in chocolate cups that you eat after drinking.
Other Portuguese Drinks
- Aguardente de Medronho—brandy made from strawberry tree fruits, especially in the Algarve and Alentejo. Often homemade and with 40–50% alcohol, not to be underestimated
- Licor Beirão—the best-selling liqueur in Portugal, herb-based, from the Beiras region. Enjoyed neat, on ice, or as a cocktail
- Poncha—the national drink of Madeira: Aguardente de Cana (sugarcane brandy), fresh lemon juice, honey, and orange juice. It tastes harmless but packs a punch
- Imperial/Fino—a small draft beer. In Lisbon, it's called "uma imperial," in Porto "um fino." The brands Super Bock (Porto) and Sagres (Lisbon) share the market and the hearts of the Portuguese—the loyalty is almost as strong as in football
- Coffee—a Bica (espresso) in Lisbon or Cimbalino in Porto. Small, strong, affordable (0.70–1 €). Never order "a coffee"—it doesn't exist. You want a Bica. Or a Galão (milk coffee in a glass) for breakfast