Our Story
The journey from Portugal and Cape Verde to Boston, and how Lisboa Cafe & Market came to be a home for authentic flavors and cultural traditions.
A Culinary Journey Across Oceans
Lisboa Cafe & Market is the dream of Raquel Semedo, a Portuguese entrepreneur with Cape Verdean roots, who came to Boston five years ago with a vision of bringing authentic Portuguese flavors to Dorchester, specifically Uphams Corner.
Born and raised in Portugal, Raquel left home at 24 and earned a degree in travel and tourism from the United Kingdom. After working in restaurants and managing hotels, she set her sights on creating a unique culinary space in Boston.
Her goal is to establish a high-end café specializing in Portuguese pastries like filhós, and a market offering Portuguese products such as cheeses, warm breads, and bacalao. Raquel is committed to serving the large Portuguese and Cape Verdean community in Dorchester.
"It fulfills my heart to provide other people great moments and great times," Raquel says. "I want to create a space you would think is in the Seaport but is right here in Dorchester."
Our Cultural Heritage
Lisboa Cafe celebrates the rich interconnected histories of Portugal and Cape Verde, bringing these culinary traditions to the heart of Boston.
Portuguese Traditions
Portuguese cuisine is known for its bold flavors, emphasis on fresh seafood, and the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. The country's culinary traditions have influenced food cultures around the world.
From the iconic Bacalhau (salted cod) prepared in countless ways to the sweet, creamy Pastéis de Nata, Portuguese food celebrates both the bounty of the sea and the comfort of home cooking.
At Lisboa, we import traditional Portuguese ingredients and prepare classics with authentic techniques, bringing a taste of Portugal to Boston.
Cape Verdean Influences
Cape Verde's cuisine reflects its position at the crossroads of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian culinary traditions. The island nation's food is characterized by slow-cooked stews, fresh seafood, and corn-based dishes.
Signature dishes like Cachupa (a hearty stew), Caldo de Peixe (fish soup), and Pastel com Diabo Dentro (spicy meat pastries) showcase the vibrant flavors and inventive cooking techniques born of necessity in this island archipelago.
We honor these traditions by sourcing authentic ingredients and preparing our dishes with the patience and care they deserve.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do at Lisboa Cafe & Market, from how we prepare our food to how we engage with our community.
We stay true to traditional recipes and cooking methods, honoring the heritage behind each dish we serve and product we stock.
Authenticity
We believe food brings people together. Our space is designed to foster connections and celebrate the diverse cultures that make Boston unique.
Community
Tradition
We keep cultural traditions alive through our food, events, and by sharing the stories behind the dishes that connect generations.
Meet Our Team
The passionate people behind Lisboa Cafe & Market who bring our vision to life every day.
-
Raquel Semedo
Founder & Visionary
A Portuguese entrepreneur with Cape Verdean roots, Raquel is dedicated to bringing authentic Portuguese cuisine and community spirit to Dorchester.
-
Carla Silva
Head Chef
With 10 years of experience in Portuguese cuisine, Carla brings technical expertise and creative vision to our kitchen, honoring tradition while embracing innovation.