April 26, 2025
Ofício – Tasco Atípico
Our last night in Lisbon turned into quite the celebration - birthday girl, great company and one unforgettable dinner at Ofício – Tasco Atípico, a Michelin Guide-listed spot that absolutely lives up to the hype. The moment we stepped in, the place was buzzing. Thankfully we made a reservation in advance. Every table was taken, and the vibe was vibrant, youthful, and full of energy. Our server João was extremely warm and attentive, with every dish introduced with pride and precision.
We kicked off with two impressive finger bites. In fact my favourite dish that evening was the rib-eye on brioche toast which was a true showstopper to kick off the meal. Thinly sliced beef, lightly torched just enough to give the edges a seductive char while keeping the centre lusciously raw. That contrast alone was a textural joy. The meat was incredibly flavourful - rich, beefy, almost buttery and it sat atop a crisp, golden brioche toast that added just the right crunch to each bite. A touch of mustard seeds and micro herbs added a zing and lift. It was one of those bites you instinctively slow down for, just to savour every element.
The refreshing lettuce taco with tuna and chipotle mayo packed a punch of acidity and crunch. Both bites set the tone and expectations soared from there.
Cold dishes came next - razor clams in lemon and garlic emulsion, delicately briny and aromatic, followed by a luscious veal and marrow tartare which was elegant yet indulgent.
The hot plates kept the momentum going. Tempura leek with Romesco sauce was unexpectedly addictive. The Hokkaido pumpkin with turnip greens and cornflour felt wholesome with a nutty depth, and the skate fish in caper-tomato sauce was beautifully balanced and presented. The Iberian pork with lupins and anchovy sauce was bold and confident, while the rib-eye and glutinous rice topped with a fried egg felt like the Portuguese answer to donburi, unexpected but delicious.
We ended with desserts that were both familiar and elevated. Basque cheesecake was creamy with a gently charred top and a smooth flan with Moscatel caramel that lingered on the palate.
Ofício is not your average tasca. It is playful, inventive, and deeply satisfying. Definitely one for the list when in Lisbon. Book ahead. And go hungry.
We kicked off with two impressive finger bites. In fact my favourite dish that evening was the rib-eye on brioche toast which was a true showstopper to kick off the meal. Thinly sliced beef, lightly torched just enough to give the edges a seductive char while keeping the centre lusciously raw. That contrast alone was a textural joy. The meat was incredibly flavourful - rich, beefy, almost buttery and it sat atop a crisp, golden brioche toast that added just the right crunch to each bite. A touch of mustard seeds and micro herbs added a zing and lift. It was one of those bites you instinctively slow down for, just to savour every element.
The refreshing lettuce taco with tuna and chipotle mayo packed a punch of acidity and crunch. Both bites set the tone and expectations soared from there.
Cold dishes came next - razor clams in lemon and garlic emulsion, delicately briny and aromatic, followed by a luscious veal and marrow tartare which was elegant yet indulgent.
The hot plates kept the momentum going. Tempura leek with Romesco sauce was unexpectedly addictive. The Hokkaido pumpkin with turnip greens and cornflour felt wholesome with a nutty depth, and the skate fish in caper-tomato sauce was beautifully balanced and presented. The Iberian pork with lupins and anchovy sauce was bold and confident, while the rib-eye and glutinous rice topped with a fried egg felt like the Portuguese answer to donburi, unexpected but delicious.
We ended with desserts that were both familiar and elevated. Basque cheesecake was creamy with a gently charred top and a smooth flan with Moscatel caramel that lingered on the palate.
Ofício is not your average tasca. It is playful, inventive, and deeply satisfying. Definitely one for the list when in Lisbon. Book ahead. And go hungry.
Ofício – Tasco Atípico
R. Nova da Trindade 11k, 1200-301 Lisboa, Portugal
