Ceia
A Portuguese chef and his 14-person communal table
By Patrick JanelleMinimal and textured, austere and welcoming, Silent Living is a Portuguese hospitality brand that tows the line of seeming paradox—and does so to grand effect, having transformed four former family homes across the country into minimalist sanctuaries for travelers.
The brand’s ethos—creating environments that feel warm, comfortable, and lived in—is impressively present in its lineup of starkly chic, minimalist properties across Portugal. Take, for instance, Santa Clara 1728, the Lisbon property, where the owners of the brand live, along with their four children, and welcome guests personally when they arrive at one of the six guest suites.
In 2018, the brand turned their attention to a fine dining concept at the Lisbon property. The restaurant, Ceia, is set in one tiny wing off the main entrance of the hotel, in a room just large enough to fit a 14-person communal table. Reservations are for paid for in advance, with the option for wine pairing. The chef, Pedro Pena Bastos, creates delicately plated dishes that feature fresh, seasonal produce and local fish. The goal of the restaurant, as it is for the rest of the brand’s ventures, is to create an elevated environment that is accessible (tastings are €100, with an additional €50 for wine pairings), with an authentic sense of community at the forefront.
show up like you're a regularPro Tips
Pro Tips
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The architecture is chic and minimal, while the dining experience is relaxed and intimate.
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There is only one seating per night, and all guest will be seated together around a communal table.
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A refined dinner for making friends when solo or a special night out with a guest.
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Be sure to get the wine pairing. It bumps up an already pricey meal, but the education on Portuguese wines is worth it.
