Manteigaria Silva in Lisbon: A Culinary Gem of Tradition and Excellence
Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is a city steeped in history and rich culinary traditions. Amidst its charming streets and historic neighborhoods lies Manteigaria Silva, a culinary institution that has been serving locals and visitors with the finest Portuguese gourmet products for over a century. In this article, we will delve into the heart of Lisbon’s gastronomic heritage and explore Manteigaria Silva, offering a detailed description of this iconic establishment, its amenities, pricing, location, and the unique experience it provides.
Description of Manteigaria Silva
Manteigaria Silva, often simply referred to as “Silva,” is a historic gourmet store located in the heart of Lisbon. Founded in 1890, it has earned a well-deserved reputation as a culinary landmark in the city. The store exudes an old-world charm that immediately transports visitors to a bygone era.
Amenities
- Gourmet Delights: At Manteigaria Silva, you’ll discover an extensive array of Portuguese gourmet products, including an impressive selection of cheeses, cured meats, olive oils, wines, and, of course, the star of the show, Portuguese hams.
- Expert Staff: The knowledgeable and friendly staff at Manteigaria Silva are passionate about their products and are always eager to assist you in selecting the perfect items to suit your palate. Their expertise is invaluable, especially when navigating the world of Portuguese ham and cheese.
- Tasting Opportunities: Manteigaria Silva offers tasting experiences that allow you to sample some of their finest products before making a purchase. This is an excellent way to explore the rich flavors and textures of Portuguese cuisine.
- Packaging Services: If you wish to take home some of the treasures you discover at Manteigaria Silva, they offer packaging services to ensure your purchases are carefully wrapped and protected for your journey.
- Café Silva: In addition to their retail space, Manteigaria Silva boasts Café Silva, a cozy corner where you can enjoy light meals and snacks made with their exceptional products. It’s an ideal spot to take a break and savor the flavors of Portugal.
Pricing
The pricing at Manteigaria Silva varies depending on the products you choose, but you’ll find a range of options to suit various budgets. Portuguese hams and cheeses can be purchased by weight, allowing you to control the quantity you desire. As a general reference, a high-quality Portuguese ham can cost between €30 and €60 per kilogram, while artisanal cheeses typically range from €10 to €30 per kilogram.
When dining at Café Silva, prices for light meals and snacks are reasonable, with options starting at around €5. It’s an excellent way to experience the flavors of Portugal without breaking the bank.
Location
Manteigaria Silva is conveniently situated in Lisbon’s historic center, making it easily accessible to both tourists and locals. The exact address is:
Address: Rua Dom Antão de Almada 1, 1100-197 Lisbon, Portugal
Website: Manteigaria Silva
The Manteigaria Silva Experience
Visiting Manteigaria Silva is not just about shopping; it’s a unique culinary experience that takes you on a journey through Portugal’s gastronomic heritage. Here’s what you can expect when you step into this iconic store:
- Portuguese Ham Paradise: Manteigaria Silva is renowned for its exceptional Portuguese hams, particularly the famous “Presunto,” a type of dry-cured ham. The hams are proudly displayed in the store, and you can witness the intricate process of slicing the ham to perfection right before your eyes. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water.
- Cheese Lover’s Paradise: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. The cheese section at Manteigaria Silva is a treasure trove of artisanal Portuguese cheeses, each with its own unique flavor profile. From creamy, soft cheeses to aged, tangy varieties, there’s something to satisfy every cheese lover’s cravings.
- Olive Oil Heaven: Portugal is renowned for its high-quality olive oils, and Manteigaria Silva proudly showcases an impressive selection. Whether you’re looking for an everyday cooking oil or a special bottle for drizzling over salads and bread, you’ll find a wide range of options to explore.
- Wine Pairing: To complete your culinary journey, Manteigaria Silva offers an assortment of Portuguese wines. The knowledgeable staff can recommend the perfect wine to pair with your selection of hams and cheeses, enhancing your tasting experience.
- Café Silva Delights: After exploring the store, a visit to Café Silva is a must. Here, you can relax in a charming setting while indulging in light meals and snacks made from Manteigaria Silva’s premium products. The “tostas” (open-faced sandwiches) featuring Portuguese hams and cheeses are particularly popular.
Conclusion
Manteigaria Silva is a testament to Lisbon’s rich culinary heritage, preserving and celebrating the traditions of Portuguese gourmet products. A visit to this historic establishment is not just a shopping trip; it’s a cultural experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the flavors, aromas, and stories of Portugal. Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or a curious traveler, Manteigaria Silva is a destination that will leave an indelible mark on your palate and your heart. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this culinary gem when you find yourself in Lisbon – it’s a journey through time and taste that you won’t soon forget.

Gonzalo
Founder/Owner of The Lisbon Guide, one of the major blog references in Portugal, established in 2014 and receiving every year 250.000 visitors from all over the world, looking to provide the best experiences in Portugal. In partnership with Portugal Magik for all private tours and transfers across Portugal, Gonzalo loves a good seafood meal at Monte Mar Cascais, and all from Michelin Chef Avillez. Favorite Hotel in Lisbon/Portugal, Penha Longa Resort by Ritz Carlton.
For over 15 years, Gonzalo have been helping thousands of travelers yearly to plan a perfect trip to Portugal. Based in Lisbon/Cascais and working in this field for over 20 years, with multiple ongoing projects. Also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide.
Many years working also as a Private Guide of Lisbon, Sintra, Fatima, Porto, Douro Valley, Evora, and other locations in Portugal.
