Ginjinha may not be easy to pronounce, but you’ll love it the first time you try it. This sweet liqueur made of bitter cherries can be drunk hot or cold, with added pieces of fruit or without, in a chocolate cup or a traditional glass. The measure looks small, but it warms the soul and quickens the step of anyone who tries it. Walk into one of the many tascas that have become a compulsory stopping point in Lisbon’s traditional neighbourhoods and order one without fear. At Ginjinha do Rossio, which has been open for over 100 years in Rua das Portas de Santo Antão and competes with Popular and Sem Rival for customers, or at Ginjinha do Carmo you can sample liqueurs of every kind and provenance. Just don’t stop at only one.
Ginjinha
Lisbon’s traditional drink warms body and soul, day and night. It’s worth stopping by the various tasquinhas to choose your own.