Lisbon’s latest address for serious cocktails wears a crown of petals: Gardenias, a bar devoted to florals, femininity, and impeccable drinking. Founded by Aline Vargas and Margarita Sáder—two talents who have earned a leading role behind the bar—it opens a new chapter with the aim of matching their recent wins.
Gardenias, a Lisbon Newcomer
This is the first venue co-created by Vargas and Sáder. Until now, they’ve powered celebrated projects—most notably Florería Atlántico and Paradiso Barcelona. Both come from South America—Aline from Brazil, Margarita from Venezuela—and both have a deep affinity with nature: flavors, aromas, the quiet architecture of plants. Hence a bar built around a floral identity. The choice was obvious: “Flowers have always been part of everything we do… they’re even in my name,” says Sáder. Vargas adds, “Lisbon won us over immediately: a vibrant, naturally cosmopolitan city with outstanding local produce.”
Flowers, Herbs, Fruit and Cocktails
The menu pairs original signatures with refined twists on classics—guided by one idea: botany meets the art of mixology. Edible flowers, aromatic herbs, and fruit lead the way, often adding a tropical lift. The list is seasonal—its green soul demands it—because a top bar works with fresh, carefully sourced, just-picked ingredients. Every cocktail can be served zero-proof, in step with the now-established no- and low-alcohol wave.
The Food Menu at Gardenias
The kitchen follows the same philosophy: Caribbean-inspired tapas split into two sections, Flora and Fauna. Flora speaks to vegetarians and plant-based diners; Fauna to guests who prefers meat.
Nature’s Beauty and the Power of Femininity
At the official opening, Vargas and Sáder described Gardenias as “our way of telling our story. A sensorial journey that celebrates the beauty of nature and of femininity. A place where we invite you to unwind, listen, and connect. This is our story—and now it’s yours as well.”
Images courtesy Gardenias
