Fado Music at Mascote da Atalaia in Lisbon, Portugal

Fado, a genre of music distinct to Portugal. Performed in pubs, cafes, and restaurants like this one, it’s slow, lyrical, melancholic. This type of music is often paired with the word saudade, meaning longing, as relating to the Portuguese culture of Maritime adventure. A loss with great consequences. Those who venture out to sea, never to return. This genre is completely unique and unlike anything we’ve experienced. There is an intimacy with a live performance.

As of this writing, Mascote da Atalaia has shuttered its doors. It came highly recommended to us as we were trip planning due to its affordability and location. We arrived early and were sat to a table of three close to the door, which provided an excellent view of the band. Because the space was small and intimate, any seat would have been a good seat in the house.