Best private dining experiences in Lisbon for 10-50 people?
- Chef Justin Jennings
- Feb 16
- 7 min read
For groups of 10 to 50 people, Lisbon offers standout private dining options that cater to different preferences. Whether you want a personalised dining experience at your chosen location, Michelin-starred cuisine, or an elegant historical venue, here are three top options:
Justin Jennings Private Chef Services: Brings a tailored dining experience to your location (villa, yacht, Airbnb). Menus are fully customisable, starting at €65 per person.
Loco Restaurant: Michelin-starred dining with a fixed menu in an intimate restaurant setting. Prices start at €150 per person.
Palácio Chiado Event Spaces: Host your event in a refurbished 18th-century palace, offering Portuguese cuisine and a sophisticated ambiance.
Each option suits different needs, from flexible locations to historic charm or high-end restaurant dining. Prices range from €50 to over €150 per person, depending on the choice.
Quick Comparison:
Option | Location Flexibility | Cuisine Type | Price Range | Group Size | Booking Notes |
Justin Jennings Chef | High | Customisable (fusion) | €65–€135+ | 10–50 | Book 2–4 weeks in advance (peak) |
Loco Restaurant | Fixed | Michelin-starred (set menu) | €150+ | 10–50 | Strict menu policy |
Palácio Chiado Event Spaces | Fixed | Portuguese (customisable) | Contact venue | 10–50 | Available Sun–Thu |
Choose based on your event's style and priorities.
Justin Jennings brings Michelin-recommended dining straight to your chosen location - whether it’s a private villa in Cascais, a yacht cruising the Tagus, or a cosy Airbnb in Sintra. His service handles everything: from crafting bespoke menus and sourcing ingredients to cooking on-site and leaving the kitchen spotless. All you have to do is enjoy your event. Below, you’ll find details on group sizes, menu options, and how to book.
Group Size Accommodation
This service is designed for groups ranging from 10 to 50 people, making it ideal for family celebrations, corporate retreats, or intimate gatherings. A minimum spend of €500 per event applies (excluding VAT and beverages). Justin Jennings, the 2022/23 "The World Cook" champion with over 25 years of international culinary experience, ensures every event is unforgettable.
Cuisine and Menu Customisation
Menus are entirely customisable to suit your preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and child-friendly options. The cuisine combines international fusion with fresh Atlantic seafood, inspired by flavours from Australia, Hong Kong, and Portugal.
Here’s a breakdown of menu options:
Three-course menu: Starting at €65 per person
Five-course degustation: Starting at €87 per person
Eight-course tasting journey: Starting at €135 per person
Canapés: 50 pieces for €125 or 100 pieces for €250
Once you share your event details - such as the type of event, number of guests, and date - you’ll receive a tailored proposal within 24 hours. From there, you’ll work directly with Chef Justin to perfect your menu.
Pricing and Booking Options
For events during peak season (May to September), bookings should be made 2–4 weeks in advance. Last-minute requests require at least 48 hours’ notice. Pricing excludes VAT, beverages, and decorations, but you can request curated wine pairings or a full bar package.
With thousands of five-star reviews, Justin Jennings Private Chef Services is a trusted choice for high-profile events, including those hosted by the Australian Embassy in Portugal.
2. Loco Restaurant Private Dining
Loco, a Michelin-starred gem in Lisbon's Estrela district, boasts a stellar 4.7/5 rating. Nestled at Rua dos Navegantes nº53-B, this restaurant delivers a refined dining experience with contemporary flair. Keep in mind, though, that its fixed menu policy might not suit every group’s preferences.
Group Size Accommodation
Although Loco doesn’t explicitly state its private dining capacity, similar high-end venues in Lisbon suggest it can host groups of approximately 15 to 40 people. For larger gatherings or special arrangements, it’s best to reach out directly via email at loco.reservas@alexandresilva.pt. The restaurant operates Tuesday to Saturday, from 19:00 to 01:00.
Cuisine and Menu Customisation
Loco sets itself apart with its contemporary fine dining, earning the coveted Michelin recognition. However, the restaurant adheres to a strict menu policy: vegetarian options and children’s menus are not available. Guests with allergies or dietary restrictions must inform the restaurant when booking, as undisclosed issues are not their responsibility. For dietary accommodations that fall within their policy, notify them at least 72 hours in advance.
Pricing and Booking Options
Reservations at Loco are straightforward, with bookings handled via The Fork or through direct email at info@alexandresilva.pt or loco.reservas@alexandresilva.pt. Private dining starts at approximately €150 per person, with an additional service charge of 10–15%. For wine enthusiasts, premium beverage packages range from €50 to over €100 per person.
Loco offers an exceptional option for those planning group events ranging from 10 to 50 guests.
3. Palácio Chiado Event Spaces
Palácio Chiado, located at Rua do Alecrim 70, is a historic venue in Chiado that combines timeless charm with a touch of modern sophistication. Recognised as one of "The 9 Prettiest Restaurants in Lisbon" by Hotels Above Par in January 2024, this venue has become a sought-after spot for private celebrations since its reopening in October 2018 after extensive refurbishment. Known for its unique atmosphere and personalised culinary experiences, it’s an excellent choice for hosting intimate gatherings of 10 to 50 guests.
Group Size Accommodation
Palácio Chiado offers exclusive event rooms on its first floor, designed specifically for private events. These spaces are ideal for groups of 10 to 50 people and are available for bookings from Sunday evening through Thursday.
Cuisine and Menu Customisation
The venue specialises in Portuguese cuisine, with menus tailored to suit the needs of your event. Whether it’s a corporate dinner, a family celebration, or another special occasion, the kitchen ensures dishes are customised to your preferences, all while maintaining an intimate and refined setting.
Ambiance and Venue Features
The first-floor event rooms at Palácio Chiado exude historical elegance while incorporating modern design elements. This blend of old-world charm and contemporary style makes the venue both sophisticated and adaptable for a variety of events. Its visual appeal hasn’t gone unnoticed - The Infatuation included it in "The 19 Best Bars In Lisbon 2024" in June 2023. This perfect harmony of elegance and flexibility creates a setting that feels distinctly Lisbon.
Pricing and Booking Options
For pricing details and availability, reach out to Palácio Chiado directly to discuss your event needs. Its prime location in the heart of Chiado ensures easy access for both local and international guests.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a closer look at the strengths and challenges of each option to help you decide which private dining experience in Lisbon matches your group’s preferences. The table below provides a quick overview for easy comparison.
Justin Jennings Private Chef Services offers a tailored dining experience at your preferred location - whether it’s a villa, yacht, or private home. They take care of everything, from designing the menu to shopping, cooking, and cleaning up after the meal. However, you’ll need to provide the venue yourself. Prices start at €65 per person for a personalised three-course dinner.
Loco Restaurant Private Dining is perfect for those who enjoy fine dining in a polished restaurant atmosphere. The professional setting ensures an exceptional culinary experience, though the fixed venue limits the ability to adjust the ambience.
Palácio Chiado Event Spaces stands out with its stunning 18th-century palace setting, combining historical charm with modern elegance. It’s a venue that leaves a lasting impression, but its fixed location means less flexibility for choosing another setting.
Option | Key Strengths | Limitations |
Justin Jennings Private Chef | Flexible location, tailored menus, full-service experience | Requires the client to provide the venue |
Loco Restaurant | High-end fine dining in a professional setting | Fixed venue with limited ambience options |
Palácio Chiado | Unique, elegant 18th-century palace atmosphere | Limited flexibility in location |
Your decision will depend on what matters most to your group: the freedom to choose the location (Justin Jennings Private Chef), the sophistication of a restaurant setting (Loco Restaurant), or the one-of-a-kind charm of a historic venue (Palácio Chiado). Each option caters to groups ranging from 10 to 50 guests, ensuring a memorable experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
The perfect private dining option in Lisbon depends entirely on your event's style and priorities. With the city's mix of historic charm and modern sophistication, your choice should reflect the atmosphere and experience you want to create.
If you're looking for a fully customised experience, Justin Jennings Private Chef Services is an excellent choice. You can find more private chef advice and catering tips to help plan your event. They bring the dining experience to your location, handling everything from menu design to shopping, cooking, and cleanup - leaving you to simply provide the venue.
For those who prefer the ease of a restaurant setting, Loco Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with top-tier service. While it lacks the flexibility of a private chef, it makes up for it with its refined atmosphere.
Lastly, Palácio Chiado stands out for its historical setting. This 18th-century palace combines classic elegance with modern amenities, providing a unique backdrop for your event, though the venue itself is fixed.
All three options cater to groups ranging from 10 to 50 people. Whether you prioritise a bespoke dining experience at home, a sophisticated restaurant setting, or the grandeur of a historical palace, Lisbon offers a choice that will make your event unforgettable.
FAQs
What’s included in the per-person price?
The cost per person typically includes a customised menu, which can range from light canapés to elaborate multi-course meals. Some venues or packages might also offer extras like wine pairings or other drinks. Since what's included can differ between providers, it’s a good idea to clarify the specifics when making your reservation.
Can you cater for allergies and special diets?
Private dining experiences in Lisbon are well-equipped to handle allergies and special dietary needs. Many venues and private chefs are happy to create customised menus to suit preferences like vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets. To ensure everything goes smoothly, it's important to share your specific requirements ahead of time. This way, you can enjoy a truly personalised meal without any worries.
How far ahead should I book for 10–50 guests?
When planning private dining experiences in Lisbon for groups ranging from 10 to 50 guests, it’s best to book several weeks ahead. This not only secures your spot but also gives the venue enough time to provide a customised service that suits your group’s preferences.
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