BOA-BAO - The only Boa I want to be near of

I'm about to tell you a little bit about Boa-Bao, an amazing Asian restaurant in the heart of Lisbon, just 5 minutes away from the famous Brasileira cafe.

But, before I continue, I do have to apologise. I took one photo of part my meal. One. I was really eager to dig in, and hunger took over. Sorrynotsorry. So, this post will feature photos from Boa-Bao's website, because my sad, dark photo does the food no justice whatsoever.

Now for the good stuff! Boa-Bao is not too big, not too small, it's very cozy, and has a relaxed atmosphere, that is perfectly complemented by really nice staff.

As soon as I stepped inside the restaurant I was immersed in a sea of scents, warmth and immediate hunger. It's the kind of place that opens your appetite just by passing in front of the door.

I had never been there, so I wasn't sure what to order, so I ended up going for the Dim Sum. I had the veggie option, and let me tell you, they are amazingly fluffy, and generously filled with a smooth mixture full of flavours.

I also had a perfect dose of fried rice to go with it, and I couldn't have been happier.

But there's so much more to choose from: egg rolls, salads, soups, calamari, curry... The list is long, warm and, at times, spicy.

Pair your dinner with some wine, like I did, (they also sell by the glass, yes-please-and-thank you!), or order a cocktail or mocktail and enjoy it in a funky glass. You can also have some water. Or juice. You do you, boo.

To top it all off I opted for an espresso that came with a small piece of yummy cardamom layer-cake (the word cardamom was never used, BUT, that's the spice I think I tasted), and it was just what I needed to tie it all together.

With their small tables and moody lighting, Boa-Bao is the perfect place for a date or dinner with close friends. Fair warning: the tables are pretty close to each other, so another person may rest their hand on your table, giving you and your friends a case of the giggles. (True story.)

If you order an appetizer + main course + drink + coffee, be prepared to pay around 25-30€. Not super up there but maybe not for everyday dining either.

Here's the thing though: you won't regret the experience, and you will leave Boa-Bao, a fuller, happier and warmer human being.

Check out Boa-Bao's website and instagram page if you'd like to explore a little more, but be prepared to start salivating. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Are you a fan of Asian food? What's your favourite dish?