If there’s one thing you shouldn’t skip while wandering the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, it’s a taste of Ginjinha. This cherry liqueur is a quintessential Portuguese experience—sweet, slightly tart, and just a little bit fiery.

What Exactly is Ginjinha?

Ginjinha (or simply Ginja) is a liqueur made from sour cherries (ginja berries) that are steeped in alcohol and sweetened with sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes a touch of other secret ingredients. The result is a deep, ruby-red liqueur that’s both sweet and a bit tangy, with a warm, spicy finish. It’s typically served in a shot glass—often with a plump, booze-soaked cherry sitting at the bottom.

The Ritual of Drinking Ginjinha

You don’t just sip Ginjinha anywhere. One of the best places to try it is at one of Lisbon’s tiny, old-school ginjinha bars—often no more than a hole in the wall with a weathered counter and a crowd of locals sipping and chatting outside. The most iconic spot? A Ginjinha Espinheira near Rossio Square, established in 1840. Here, the bartender will ask, “Com ou sem elas?” (With or without the cherries?). Go for “com elas”—the cherry at the bottom is like a boozy little treat at the end. Locals tend to shoot it back and keep moving, but no one will judge if you linger a bit longer to soak in the atmosphere.

The Story Behind the Sip

Legend has it that a Galician friar, experimenting with the monastery’s cherry trees, stumbled upon the perfect recipe. He shared his creation with the local tavern, and soon the drink became a favorite among Lisboetas. Today, ginjinha bars are a beloved fixture, offering a quick pick-me-up for tourists and locals alike.

Where to Find the Best Ginjinha in Lisbon

A Ginjinha Espinheira: The oldest and most famous, right by Rossio Square. Don’t be intimidated by the crowd—it moves fast.

Ginjinha Sem Rival: Just a few steps away from Espinheira, and they claim their recipe is a touch smoother. This is where our walking food tour guide took us as he said it’s his favorite.

Ginja de Óbidos e Lisboa: A newer spot with variations on the classic recipe.

Ginjinha Cocktails: A Modern Twist

If you want a slightly more refined experience, some modern bars in Lisbon have started using ginja in cocktails. Look for concoctions like a Ginja Sour or a Cherry Spritz at spots like Gin Lovers Bar or Park Bar.

Should You Bring Some Home?

Absolutely! You can find bottles at the bars themselves or in local shops, and they make for a great souvenir. The locals will tell you that nothing quite matches the taste of ginjinha sipped right on the streets of Lisbon, but it’s worth bringing a little of that flavor back home to share (or keep for yourself).

Final Thoughts

Ginjinha isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual that connects you with Lisbon’s past and present. Whether you’re tossing back a quick shot before catching the tram or savoring it in a cocktail at a rooftop bar, it’s a must-try. Next time you’re in Lisbon, raise a glass to tradition, cherries, and the simple joys of discovering a city one sip at a time.

Read more Lisbon travel tips here!

Have you tried Ginjinha? Let me know your favorite spot in Lisbon in the comments!