Soul Garden is a true oasis in the center of the Portuguese capital and has a privileged location in the Hotel Corinthia Lisbon. It was recently renovated and now looks better than ever, with a stunning interior space and highly suggestive gastronomic novelties, prepared by chef Miguel Teixeira.
As the name implies, Soul Garden has a lot of “soul” and is much more than a restaurant, it is also a cosmopolitan space for conviviality, sharing, good conversation and lots of entertainment, not least because rhythm, color and music never lacks. A vibrant space where we feel comfortable and where we can be with freedom. We enter and suddenly we have the feeling that we are in an exotic, verdant destination, a jungle where good times happen and communion with nature.
As usual, the Soul Garden promises to bring our summer to life and make our winter cozy, not least because in addition to the large terrace that we are already familiar with, the restaurant now has an interior space in the hotel, soberly decorated with elegance and some irreverent works of art, where even the bathroom is a space that dazzles us with its originality. The connection between spaces, indoors and outdoors, is very easy and both work harmoniously, complementing each other for the most different occasions.
The menu, in charge of Chef Miguel Teixeira, maintains its inspiration in the four corners of the world and in the four elements of nature that make up the restaurant: Earth, Fire, Water and Air. An Asian fusion cuisine with Latin American influences where I highlight the Lamb bao, Soft crab tacos, Prawn tempura in panko and almond with truffle sauce and also the flavors of Japan, on a platter that combines several pieces – Hot Maki Rolls, Uramaki, Gunkan, Nigiri or Sashimi – deliciously fresh. But there are many other options to taste.
Accompanying the meal, the vibrant cocktails with Pedro Dias’ signature. We tried two of the hottest: Wagazabi (with Sake junmai, Rum, Wasabi paste and Nori seaweed) and the Hot Royal (with Cognac, Beirão liquor, pineapple juice, lime juice, agave syrup and chili pepper) – both truly delicious where it’s hard to taste just one. We ended on a sublime note with a Nashi tart, Salted caramel and Amaretto and a Date and cashew cheesecake served with coconut sobert.
Soul Garden is a special space where I come often and I always feel welcome. Ideal for a moment of relaxation, with friends or family, or simply for two, there is space and flavors that are always an inspiration.
By Carla Branco