When it comes to cocktail culture in Lisbon, the go-to spot for enthusiasts is undoubtedly Monkey Mash, together with the Red Frog speakeasy.
Bar Tour in Lisbon: Where to Go
With a rich history spanning five years Monkey Mash, a vibrant cocktail bar, recently celebrated its anniversary with a spectacular threeday event featuring international guest bartenders from renowned establishments like Bar Nouveau, Handshake Speakeasy, Moebius, Nouvelle Vague, Svanen, and The Bar in Front of the Bar. This celebration was masterminded by founders Emanuel Minêz and Paulo Gomes.
Minêz, a hospitality entrepreneur with numerous venues to his name, also co-organizes the prestigious Lisbon Bar Show. Gomes comes from a family of restaurateurs, owners of the historic Lisbon restaurant Esquina da Fe, a bastion of traditional Portuguese cuisine. Together, they launched the city’s first cocktail bar focused on contemporary mixology, transforming it into a cutting-edge laboratory for innovative drink creation.
A Refined and Tropical Atmosphere
Over its five years, Monkey Mash has become a cornerstone of Lisbon’s nightlife, turning Praça da Alegria into the heart of Portuguese mixology. Its tropical-themed decor — featuring colorful walls, vibrant seating, lush green leaves dangling from the ceiling, and an inviting bar counter — has captivated fans of agave and sugarcane spirits. The bar offers an array of drinks with a tropical twist, all set to a lively soundtrack that enhances the festive vibe.
Red Frog, The Speakeasy Inside Monkey Mash
Hidden behind a wall of glossy ochre tiles in Monkey Mash is the dynamic duo’s second masterpiece: Red Frog. The emblem of this speakeasy is a whimsical red frog with black dots, presiding over the bar and making playful appearances throughout the small hall. Entry etiquette requires a knock on the door and a peek through a slot to catch a glimpse of the action at the bar.
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Photo by Tiago Maya
