Arkhe
Lisbon, Portugal
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Located in the city centre, with a discreet façade, exposed stone interior, and tasteful minimalist décor. This establishment is run by Brazilian chef João Ricardo Alves, who, after travelling through various kitchens around the world, decided to open this gastronomic spot – definitively vegan/vegetarian to avoid animal protein – together with Alejandro Chávarro (dining room manager and sommelier), who also brings a strong international background. The offering, which is not lacking in technique, is crafted with seasonal produce and stands out for the delicacy and flavour of its sauces, expressed through three menus: Lunch (3 courses, only on weekdays), Descoberta (“Discovery,” where the diner selects 5 courses from a small menu) and Carta Branca (“Chef’s Choice”, featuring 7 courses selected by the chef). A dish we enjoyed? Their elegant kimchi-tomato-marjoram, presented as delicious filled ravioli.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
- Chef's Background: Chef João Ricardo Alves was raised in Brazil by a Portuguese father and previously worked as a butcher in a French restaurant before shifting to vegetarian cuisine.
- Sourcing and Menu: The restaurant sources ingredients from small European producers using regenerative growing techniques and offers three, five, or seven-course menus with regularly changing dishes based on the freshest vegetables available.
- Wine Pairing Expertise: The wine list is curated by Alejandro Chávarro, who has worked at Mugaritz and includes a focus on natural wines discovered during global travels.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Arkhe in Lisbon, which specializes in vegetarian and vegan contemporary cuisine, include:
Kimchi: Used in their elegant kimchi-tomato-marjoram ravioli, kimchi adds a fermented, spicy depth that highlights Arkhe's creative approach to plant-based dishes.
Tomato: Featured prominently alongside kimchi and marjoram in their signature filled ravioli, tomato provides freshness and acidity to balance the flavors.
Marjoram: This herb is paired with kimchi and tomato in the ravioli, contributing aromatic and slightly sweet notes that elevate the dish's complexity.
Seasonal, locally sourced vegetables: Arkhe emphasizes sustainability and seasonality, crafting dishes from fresh, local produce that changes throughout the year, ensuring high quality and vibrant flavors.
Pear and Gorgonzola (in pasta dishes): Although not vegan, this combination is noted in standout dishes, demonstrating the restaurant's creative use of contrasting sweet and savory flavors in their vegetarian offerings.
These ingredients reflect Arkhe's commitment to refined, plant-based gastronomy with a focus on delicate sauces, seasonal freshness, and international influences, particularly in their signature ravioli and pasta dishes.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menus
- Vegetarian Experience: 8 courses, €180
- Chef's Table: 12 courses, €280
Signature Dishes
- Blue Lobster: €95
- Artichoke: €45
In The Media
Arkhe, Lisbon | 50 Best Discovery
Arkhe. Lisbon, Portugal. Named after the ancient Greek word meaning 'beginning' or 'origin', this vibrant spot puts a decadent spin on vegetarian and vegan ...
theworlds50best.com
36 Hours in Lisbon: Things to Do and See - The New York Times
Apr 20, 2023 ... ... Lisbon ... Several ambitious vegetarian restaurants have sprouted in recent years, perhaps none more quietly elegant than Arkhe, near the Cais do ...
nytimes.com
The 38 Best Restaurants in Lisbon, Portugal, According to a Local ...
3 days ago ... Restaurant News · Maps and Guides · At Home · Culture · Travel · Newsletters ... Lisbon to open Arkhe, one of the city's best vegetarian ...
eater.com