Ginjinha: Lisbon's Cherry Liqueur and Where to Drink It

Ginjinha (or ginja) is Lisbon’s favourite drink: a sweet, ruby-red liqueur made from sour Morello cherries, knocked back in a tiny glass at a hole-in-the-wall bar, or sipped from an edible chocolate cup in Óbidos. Here’s everything you need to know about ginjinha, and where to try it.

Quick answer: in Lisbon, order a shot at a tiny ginjinha bar near Rossio, com elas (with the cherries) or sem elas (without). In Óbidos, have it in a chocolate cup. It costs a euro or two, and it’s strong (around 18–24%).

What is ginjinha?

Ginja berries (sour cherries) are soaked in aguardente (a grape spirit) with sugar, and sometimes cinnamon or cloves, for months. The result is sweet, warming and fruity. The tradition is said to have started with a monk in Lisbon in the 19th century, and the drink has been a Lisbon institution ever since.

Where to drink it

Lisbon

• Around Rossio: the most famous ginjinha bars are tiny counters near Rossio and Largo de São Domingos, where locals stand on the street with their glass. Expect a queue of tourists and old regulars alike.
• Alfama: little bars and window counters sell homemade ginja, especially during the June festivals.
• How to order: “uma ginjinha, com elas” (with the cherries) or “sem elas” (without).

Óbidos

The medieval town is famous for ginja de Óbidos, served in little dark chocolate cups that you eat after drinking. You’ll find it on every corner. See Óbidos.

Tips

• Go easy: it’s sweet but strong.
• Mind the stones: the cherries usually still have their stones.
• Take some home: bottles of ginja make great souvenirs. See the best souvenirs.
• On a food tour: most Lisbon food tours include a ginjinha stop. See food tours.

More Portuguese drinks: port, vinho verde and coffee. More Lisbon: Lisbon nightlife.

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