Ginjinha Sem Rival A relaxed and authentic spot in Lisbon, perfect if you’re looking for something a little more local and traditional during your visit.
Location: Lisbon – Rossio
Best for: Local experience
It would be rude to visit Lisbon without trying one of the city’s most famous drinks, Ginjinha. While wandering around Rossio, I stopped at Ginjinha Sem Rival, one of the oldest Ginjinha shops in Lisbon, dating back to 1890. I’d heard all sorts of stories about the drink being created as a medicine, but after chatting with the gentleman behind the counter, he quickly dismissed that as a myth.
For those who haven’t tried it, Ginjinha is a sweet cherry liqueur made from ginja cherries, a type of sour cherry. It’s traditionally served in a small shot glass, often with a cherry sitting at the bottom. The drink is smooth, slightly sweet, and stronger than it looks. Just be careful if you decide to eat the cherry afterwards, there’s a sizeable stone hidden inside.
The shop itself feels like a step back in time. The shelves are packed with bottles, the décor is traditional, and it has the sort of atmosphere that makes you feel like very little has changed here over the years. If Ginjinha isn’t your thing, they also serve local wines and beers by the glass.
Who is Ginjinha Sem Rival for? Anyone wanting to try a genuine Lisbon tradition. It’s a quick stop rather than somewhere you’ll spend the evening, but if you’re exploring Rossio and want to sample one of Portugal’s most famous drinks, it’s well worth a visit.
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