Fado

FADO is a very traditional music particular to Portugal. A song expressing sadness, longing, love, passion and life it can be melancholy or lively too. It is a song of the soul, a kind of cry.  The word “fado” comes from the Latin word ‘fatum’, which signifies “fate” or “destiny”. This is normally conveyed in the songs.

The music can be traced back to the music of Africa taken to Brazil by slaves. However, the origins are not entirely clear. It was brought back to Portugal by sailors and travellers from Brazil. Originally it was sung in the backstreets of Lisbon and other ports.

The singer man or woman, a fadista, is accompanied by a Portuguese guitarra. They are often dressed in black.  In restaurants and Fado houses it usually begins at 10pm.

The Fado Museum (Museu do Fado) depicts its history. It is located at Largo do Chafariz de Dentro, 1, Lisbon. Tel: +351-21-8823470. Open: 10am-6pm. Closed Monday.

Amália Rodrigues was one of the best loved and known Fado singers.  Other Fado singers that we grew up with: Carlos do Carmo, Rodrigo.

Some Fado Restaurants

Below is a selection of restaurants where you can hear it.
To ensure you get a table please book in advance.

  • ADEGA MACHADO:
    Founded in 1937.  Rua do Norte, 91, Lisbon. Tel: +351-21-3422282. Open: 7.30pm-2am. Closed Monday.
  • ADEGA MESQUITA:
    Rua Diário de Notícias, 107, Lisbon. Tel:+351-21-3219280.  Open: 8pm-3am.
  • PARREIRINHA DE ALFAMA:
    Beco do Espírito Santo, 1, Lisbon. Tel:+351-21-8868209 Open: 8pm-1am. Closed Monday.
  • TAVERNA D’EL REY:
    Largo do Chafariz de Dentro, 14 – Alfama, Lisbon. Tel:+351-21-8876754. Open: 6pm-2am.
  • SR VINHO:
    Rua Meio à Lapa, 18, Lisbon. Tel: +351-21-3972681. Open: 8pm-2am. Closed Sunday.
  • CAFE LUSO:
    Travessa da Queimada, 10, Lisbon. Tel: +351-21-3422281. Open: 7pm-1am. Closed Sunday.
  • LISBOA À NOITE:
    Rua das Gáveas, 69/71, Lisbon Tel: +351-21-3468557 Open: 6.30pm-1am. Closed Sunday.
  • O FAIA:
    Rua da Barroca, 54-56, Lisbon Tel: +351-21-3426742 Open: 7.30pm-1am. Closed Sunday.
  • CLUBE DE FADO:
    Rua São João da Praça, 92-94, Lisbon. Tel: +351-21-8852704. Open: 7.30pm-1am. www.clubedefado.pt

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