Taste the Heritage of Lisboa

Lisboa Café & Market is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of Cape Verdean and Portuguese culture, rooted in family traditions and the flavors that shaped our founder, Raquel.

Born and raised in Portugal to Cape Verdean parents, Raquel grew up with a dual cultural identity that deeply influenced her culinary journey. During the week, she was immersed in Portuguese life through school and friendships. On weekends, her home became a haven of Cape Verdean traditions—music, food, family, and resilience. This blend of cultures gave Raquel a rich perspective, a sense of community, and a passion for sharing the stories behind each dish.

At 24, as a single mother, Raquel moved to England, where she pursued a degree in Travel and Tourism Business Management and built a career in hotel management. Yet, the call to return to her roots persisted. Food remained her constant connection to home, and she often dreamed aloud to friends: “One day, I’ll open a Portuguese restaurant.”

Years later, after working at Restaurante Cesaria in Dorchester and immersing herself in Boston’s Cape Verdean community, Raquel felt ready to bring her dream to life. Lisboa Café is her way of honoring both cultures, creating a space where every meal tells a story—one that crosses oceans, generations, and traditions.

At Lisboa, we’re not just serving food; we’re sharing the soul of our culture, one plate at a time.