Darwin's Cafe

Darwin's Café is named after Charles Darwin (1809-1882) the eminent British scientist who laid the foundations of the theory of evolution. It's housed within the modern and techy Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, home of the private Champalimaud Foundation. Located in the pleasant waterfront suburb of Algés, Darwin's menu showcases traditional Portuguese cuisine with southern European accents. Lunch is an ideal time to relax on the terrace over a light meal and a glass or two of wine. Dinner can be more elaborate, with the menu offering linguine with spinach, cream and goat's cheese, duck magret in a mustard crust and homemade jam and grilled vegetables or saffron risotto with salmon and cherry tomato, among other choices. Patrons should note that smoking is permitted at outdoor tables. The area is wonderful walking territory, and nearby Belém can be reached by following the promenade that hugs the River Tagus.