Review: Eating by the River at Cafetaria Mensagem

After visiting Feitoria Restaurant last January, I could hardly wait for the good weather to visit Cafetaria Mensagem. This is the second restaurant of the exquisite Altis Belém Hotel&Spa. As Feitoria, this too is under the guidance of Chef José Cordeiro and has a clear influence of the Hotel main motive – Discoveries.

The Chef has worked in many top restaurants, from London to Tokyo, and made it back to Portugal to receive a Michelin Star in 2004/2005 and again in 2005/2006 (while chef of other restaurants). At Cafetaria Mensagem, the chef brings to light all his extensive knowledge of our traditional cuisine, with clear influences from abroad. And adds an Oyster and Sushi Corner serving national oysters from Setúbal and Algarve, sushi, sashimi, temakis, crevices and tempuras, using but the freshest ingredients.

Now, don’t get scared with the name Cafetaria.  Cafetaria Mensagem is far from a simple self-service place. Located next to Torre de Belém (map), this is an unpretentious trendy restaurant set in a deluxe hotel. The casual atmosphere makes it appropriate to mostly any occasion, any time of the day. Big windows and a terrace offer great views of the river and the marina. Even the crew goes with the mood of the chef, relaxed and attentive without loosing any bit of professionalism.

The menu list is quite extensive, especially if you also consider the Oyster and Sushi bar. Take your time, the restaurant crew will be happy to help you. Most guests start with sushi and sashimi and then go for a main course. And so we did too. Following the recommendations of the chef himself, we started with a combination of sushi and sashimi for two (€25). I couldn’t resist to a traditional Monkfish Rice with Prawns, Clams and Coriander (€19) made our “malandro” (naughty) way, which basically means it’s a wet rice. The Shoulder of Black Pork with Clams Rice (€15,50) was just as outstanding as the former and amazingly soft and juicy. Other mains that you should absolutely consider are Roasted Medium Salted Codfish with Honey and Almonds (€16), their bestseller Grilled Monkfish with Shrimp Spit and Sautéed Vegetables (€17,50), Ink Cuttlefish Spaghetti with Sea Flavours (€15) and Roasted Kid Shoulder with Browned Potatoes and Turnip Greens Purée (€16,50).

A Mascarpone Cream with Guava Sorbet and Toasted Almonds (€5) and a Condensed Milk Dessert with Maria Biscuit and Strawberry Ice Cream (€4,50) finished a stupendous meal like Chef Cordeiro has made us used to expect.

The menu changes every 4 months and includes daily specials. Portions were just right and they may be served with wine by the glass.

On Sundays you can experience their famous Brunch (€35) that goes from 11:30 am to 4 pm. This mix of breakfast and lunch dishes also includes  oysters, sushi and sashimi. You can also have breakfast everyday at Cafetaria Mensagem.

Open everyday from 12:30 pm to 3 pm, and then again from 7:30 – 11 pm.  The Oyster and Sushi Bar corner is closed on Monday.

Average meal: €30 without drinks

Altis Belém Hotel&Spa
Reservations recommended.