Heart & Spirit: A complete sensory experience inside Lisbon’s most exclusive cocktail bar
- Brijiena Lovelace
- Nov 27, 2024
- 3 min read
If you’re ever in Lisbon and are looking for a full sensory experience in the evening, you’ll want to hear this.
Tucked beneath the cosmopolitan Locke de Santa Joana, a stunning hotel in the heart of Lisbon, lies a hidden gem three floors underground: Spiritland Lisboa.
Spiritland's international debut in Lisbon builds on its London legacy, paving the way for a refreshing new era for the brand.
The journey to the venue itself sets the tone for what’s to come. An almost treasure hunt-like escapade, guided by the hum of speciality speakers.
Navigating the floor to our final destination and following the sounds created a sense of exclusivity I hadn’t felt before, elevating our journey into something extraordinary rather than routine.
Upon entry, you’re met with interiors that don’t scream for attention but naturally draw you in, interior details that whisper stories of thoughtful design.
I’ve always been enamoured with the vibe and traditional interior settings of speakeasies, and for me, Spiritland brought that feeling to life.
Every detail, from the fluted wooden walls and terrazzo island to the mix of plush seating and polished industrial finishes, feels intentional.
Natural and earthy textures like cork and wood bring warmth, while darker tones and refined metals create a grounding elegance, giving the cocktail bar an almost meditative vibe.
There's a special energy in Lisbon’s Spiritland that I couldn’t help but mention during the trip. A live DJ ensures the vibe is calm yet vibrant, with a rhythm that invites you to stay, settle and soak in each second.
This place encourages a slower pace, much like the artfully crafted cocktails they serve and the staff that are just as happy to take you on the mixology journey.
Each sip is a reminder to linger, relish in the atmosphere and be present.
If you want a suggestion, the One Sip Martini sticks in my memory. Recommended by a hotel guest in the lift on our way to Spiritland, it didn’t disappoint.
Vermouth is poured into a chilled martini glass and topped with a few drops of savoury oil. The One Sip Martini packed a punch but was beautifully complemented by the herbaceous oil topping, which worked nicely against the striking base.
I found it a refined sip that perfectly embodied the environment I was enjoying it in: balanced, memorable and uniquely captivating.
The team at Spiritland elevated our experience with warm personalities that really shone through.
Leokadia, with her radiant smile and friendly manner, welcomed us at the door and set the tone for the evening. Behind the bar, João, André and Afonso masterfully crafted our drinks while passionately sharing details about the ingredients and history, even offering insights into all things Lisbon.
Their genuine hospitality and expertise added a really personal touch to an already incredible experience.
We were also lucky enough to catch up with Sophie Uddin, Spiritland’s Co-founder and Operations Director. We sat and spoke about some exciting things happening, including the opening of THE KISSATEN, an intimate listening bar that opened its doors a few floors below Spiritland.
We were so captured by the space that we couldn’t resist coming back for a second night.
Pulled by the memory of inviting interiors, friendly Spiritland staff members and unmatched vibes, our second night was as whimsical as the first.
Spiritland Lisboa is cemented as a must-visit for anyone seeking good tunes, craft cocktails and an evening to remember.
Thank you for reading.
Bx