A CEVICHERIA – CHEF KIKO

 

Chef Kiko’s second restaurant in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon is located in the prestigious neighborhood of Principe Real. It opened in 2014 and is minutes away from Lisbon’s downtown and main tourism attractions. The concept grew out of Chef Kiko’s trip “eat the world” where Kiko and his wife literally went around the world to discover different cuisines and find inspiration for their life in the world of food.

Before entering, one is struck by the eye-catching exterior doors and windows. They were inspired by M.C. Escher’s woodblock “sky and water” and are made of laser cut cold rolled steel. In the original design by Escher, fishes are presented at the base of the drawing and as they progress upward, they morph into birds.

Old Portuguese fish markets where white “Castelo Branco” marble was traditionally used inspired the interior. The same white marble is used throughout the restaurant: A large round marble counter dominates the space and opens onto the kitchen where a marble tub, filled with ice, displays the catch of the day.

The walls are covered in white tile and white marble is also used at the continuous blue and white cushioned banquette. The white tile and marble are a sharp contrast to the blue and white patterned hydraulic floor tiles.

Suspended from the ceiling is a giant Octopus, specially created for the space by artist Joao Parrinha. The size and color of this sea creature creates a dramatic contrast to the cool blue and white color scheme and it quickly became the talk of Lisbon!