A Taberna

At 92 Boulevard John Fitzgerald Kennedy in Esch-sur-Alzette, you’ll find an address that has been making Portuguese food lovers’ mouths water for years: A Taberna. This restaurant with its evocative name has established its identity in the heart of southern Luxembourg, to the point that many regulars don’t hesitate to cross borders to enjoy their favorite dishes. Formerly known as Braza Grill, the establishment has retained the friendly tavern atmosphere that characterizes Lusophone restaurants, while modernizing its menu.

What immediately strikes you about A Taberna is its typically Portuguese atmosphere. The servers, often Portuguese-speaking, greet customers with a warm smile and readily adapt to each person’s language. This easygoing approach, combined with generous portions, is part of the restaurant’s DNA. Regulars often point this out: you never leave hungry here. The value for money is, in fact, one of the most frequently cited reasons for a great meal.

The menu is a true homage to Portuguese cuisine. It’s impossible to miss the famous francesinha , a sandwich originating from Porto, filled with various meats, topped with a spicy tomato sauce, and served with fries. Many customers claim it’s simply the best francesinha served in Luxembourg. Particular attention is paid to the presentation of this dish, with the sauce served separately to prevent it from making the bread soggy. Bacalhau , another great Portuguese classic, is offered in several ways: bacalhau à marinheiro , bacalhau com broa (cod with cornbread), or even as fritters. Each preparation seems expertly executed, faithful to traditional recipes.

Seafood lovers will be drawn to the arroz de marisco , a flavorful rice dish topped with mussels and other shellfish, making for a complete and aromatic meal. Meat lovers are equally impressed, with grilled chorizo served as an appetizer, steak accompanied by a generous portion of potatoes and spinach (enough for two, according to some reviews), or cabrito à padeiro, a specialty of roast kid prepared according to Portuguese tradition. The set menu, offered on weekdays, also provides excellent value for those wishing to experience the restaurant on a budget.

On the drinks front, the house wine , Capataz, is a resounding success, and the wine list offers a selection of Portuguese wines that perfectly complement the dishes. Beer lovers aren’t forgotten either, as the establishment also serves local and Portuguese brews. For those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, a takeaway service is available, a convenient option for family dinners.

The atmosphere is also worth mentioning. Taberna regularly hosts musical evenings, particularly on Saturday nights with live music that transforms dinner into a truly convivial experience. Some evenings, the establishment also offers karaoke, a detail that may or may not appeal to everyone. The dining room, modest in size, provides an intimate setting where you quickly feel at home. The premises are clean and well-maintained, a point frequently mentioned in glowing reviews.

However, all is not perfect, and it would be dishonest not to mention certain points that deserve attention. Some customers have reported that the francesinha, under certain circumstances, can arrive too runny, with a sauce resembling broth more than the rich and flavorful preparation it should be. Others have lamented a change of chef that resulted in a temporary dip in quality. A few complaints also concern the temperature of the dishes, sometimes served lukewarm, which can detract from the experience.

The service, generally praised for its speed and friendliness, can show some signs of slowing down during peak hours. One unfortunate incident involving a no-show reservation has also been reported. Finally, some customers find the prices a bit high compared to the perceived quality, particularly the desserts, which they feel are proportionally more expensive than the main courses. The fact that the establishment is closed on Wednesdays may also disappoint visitors who hadn’t anticipated this weekly closure.

Practically speaking, A Taberna is open Monday to Tuesday and Thursday to Sunday, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM for lunch, and then from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM for dinner. The restaurant is closed on Wednesdays. Reservations are possible and highly recommended, especially on busy weekends. The entrance is wheelchair accessible, a welcome feature. The phone number is (+352) 26 53 15 33.

Ultimately, A Taberna stands out as one of the essential destinations for anyone wanting to enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine in southern Luxembourg. The tavern brilliantly combines Lusophone hospitality, generous portions, and a family atmosphere. Despite a few occasional imperfections, the majority of customers leave delighted and readily return, which explains the loyalty of a diverse clientele, ranging from Portuguese workers living in the region to curious Luxembourgers and cross-border visitors. For a first experience, it’s best to come on the weekend to fully enjoy the festive atmosphere, or during the week to try the daily special at a reasonable price. In any case, keep in mind that the place can get very busy, and patience is required during peak hours. This is definitely an address worth the detour for lovers of authentic restaurants and delicious takeaway food.