In Lisbon’s quiet Travessa da Tapada, a small green door at number 5A hides a culinary treasure: António Silva’s Portuguese churrasqueira, famous for its perfectly roasted chicken. For decades, Silva, 66, ran the tiny charcoal-grill shop serving locals, unaware that one day it would attract visitors from across the globe.
Over the past two years, Chinese tourists have discovered Silva’s shop through Xiaohongshu, a popular Chinese social media platform. Lines now stretch down the street as visitors film the smoky grill, the chef at work, and the signature white paper bags stamped with cartoon roosters. Silva, who does not use social media, greets guests with a mix of Portuguese hospitality and basic Mandarin phrases, keeping the flow moving while maintaining his decades-old cooking methods.
The chicken is prepared fresh daily, seasoned in advance to let flavors permeate, and grilled over glowing charcoal. Piri-piri adds a bright, lingering heat, while careful attention ensures each bird remains juicy with crisp, smoky skin. Regulars and pre-orders are prioritized, even amid the tourist surge, highlighting Silva’s commitment to his longstanding customers.
Despite global recognition, Silva plans to retire in May, with no family members taking over the shop. Until then, his humble shop continues to serve as a bridge between Lisbon locals and travelers seeking authentic flavors, creating an unlikely international hotspot for food enthusiasts.
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