Lisbon: Dinner with Rising Stars of Fado at Canto do Poeta

Introduction

If you’re looking to get a genuine taste of Portugal’s soul, the Dinner with Rising Stars of Fado at Canto do Poeta offers a blend of soulful music, delicious food, and local ambiance. This experience, rated 4.4 out of 5 from over 120 reviews, takes you into the heart of Lisbon’s Fado scene without the tourist crowds.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll enjoy live performances by some of the most talented emerging Fado artists, providing an intimate and authentic musical experience. Second, the traditional Portuguese cuisine is thoughtfully prepared with top-quality ingredients, making it more than just a concert—it’s a full culture. Lastly, the venue itself, located in the historic Alfama neighborhood, offers a cozy, atmospheric setting that feels like stepping into a local’s living room.

A potential consideration is that spirits and cocktails are not included, so if you’re a fan of mixed drinks, you may want to budget for additional beverages. This experience is ideal for those eager to explore Portugal’s musical roots while enjoying a hearty meal in a warm, authentic environment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Live performances by up-and-coming Fado artists in an intimate, local venue
• Cultural Dining: Traditional Portuguese dishes paired with local wines
• Historic Venue: Dine in a cozy house in Lisbon’s Alfama neighborhood
• Wine Tasting Included: Welcome Moscatel, Vinho Verde, and Reserva Port wine
• Value for Money: A three-hour experience combining music, food, and wine for $65
• Personalized Atmosphere: Small-group setting with attentive service and natural acoustics

The Experience: A Deep Dive into What You Can Expect

Location and Venue Atmosphere

Canto do Poeta is situated in Lisbon’s beloved Estrela neighborhood, but it feels like discovering a secret in Alfama—the city’s oldest and most atmospheric quarter. Reviewers frequently mention the venue’s cozy, authentic ambiance, which makes you feel like you’re visiting a friend’s home rather than a tourist trap. The intimate setting, with just enough space for around a dozen guests, enhances the feeling of being part of a private concert.

The venue’s natural acoustics amplify the singers’ voices and guitars, allowing you to appreciate the nuances of each performance—a key point noted by many who find the sound quality and intimate vibe a highlight of the evening.

The Performances: Rising Stars and Authenticity

The core of this experience is, of course, the Fado performances. Unlike larger, commercialized shows, Canto do Poeta features a curated line-up of both established and emerging talents. From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the performers are top-notch, with some reviewers mentioning female and male vocalists who sing with emotion and technical skill. One guest describes the female vocalist as singing “beautifully,” with guitar accompaniment that is “out of this world.”

The program rotates on different nights, with each performance carefully selected to honor the tradition while showcasing new talent. Guests often mention that the diversity of performers keeps the shows fresh and engaging, creating a sense of discovery every visit.

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Food and Wine: A True Portuguese Feast

Dining is central to the experience. The menu includes traditional dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients, served in a relaxed, friendly manner. Reviewers repeatedly mention the varied and well-presented food, which pairs beautifully with the wine tastings offered throughout the night.

Guests are welcomed with a glass of Moscatel, followed by Vinho Verde during the starters—a crisp, mildly sparkling wine that complements seafood and light dishes. The meal concludes with a Reserva Port wine, enhancing the dessert or simply adding a touch of luxury to the experience. Unlike some tours that only include entertainment, this one considers the importance of good food and drink in creating a well-rounded cultural outing.

The Dining Experience: Service and Value

The reviews highlight the attentive service provided by staff like Bruno and Joao, who go out of their way to make guests feel special. From personalized attention to seamless wine service, the staff’s professionalism adds to the overall enjoyment.

At $65 per person for three hours, this experience offers excellent value—combining live music, a full traditional dinner, and wine tasting. Considering the quality of the performances and the intimate atmosphere, many guests agree it’s a worthwhile investment.

Noteworthy Extras and Practicalities

While spirits and cocktails are not included, the wine selection is thoughtful and enhances the meal. Guests often mention that the small-group format makes the night feel very personal—reviewers like Jessica from Portugal describe the venue as “cosy,” and Courtney from the U.S. appreciates how accommodating the space is for larger groups.

The tour is flexible with cancellation, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, which adds a layer of convenience for travelers with changing plans.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for those who want to experience genuine Fado music in a setting that feels like a local secret. It suits music lovers, foodies, and anyone interested in authentic Portuguese culture—particularly if you enjoy small, intimate venues over large, commercial shows. Couples celebrating special occasions, like birthdays, seem to find this experience particularly memorable, thanks to the personalized touch and warm atmosphere.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a deep dive into Lisbon’s musical traditions without the touristy crowds, this experience is a winner. The focus on rising stars means you’ll get to hear fresh voices that might just become the next big thing. The quality of the food and wine elevates it from a simple concert to a full cultural meal.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, small-scale experiences and are willing to pay a fair price for a three-hour evening of music, gastronomy, and local hospitality. For those who prefer large venues or are looking for a boisterous night out, this might feel a little subdued—but for genuine ambiance and heartfelt performances, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is the venue easy to find?
Yes, the venue is located in Lisbon’s Estrela neighborhood and is described as easy to find and get to from the metro.

What is included in the price?
The $65 ticket covers the live Fado show, dinner, and wine tastings—welcome Moscatel, Vinho Verde, and Reserva Port wine.

Are drinks other than wine available?
Spirits and cocktails are not included, and it’s unclear if they are available for purchase, so bring your own or plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for last-minute adjustments.

What is the group size?
The venue typically hosts around a dozen guests, creating a very intimate and personal experience.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, including food, wine, and performances.

Is this suitable for groups or special occasions?
Absolutely, many reviews mention celebrating birthdays or special events. The small setting makes it perfect for celebrating with friends or loved ones.

To sum it up, this dinner with rising stars of Fado at Canto do Poeta delivers more than just music; it offers an authentic slice of Lisbon’s cultural life. With excellent performances, delicious traditional food, and a warm, intimate setting, it’s a wonderful way to spend an evening in Portugal’s capital. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a couple seeking a romantic night, or a traveler eager to experience local life, this tour is a genuine highlight worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: