Duque 53

An unpretentious small restaurant in a simple setting on Rua du Duque,which it shares with several establishments ,not surprisingly also named Duque with small variations in name and number ( ours is No.5 ). We went for dinner on a friend’s recommendation,without a reservation which is a norm in Lisbon,and were immediately ushered to a well placed table for four at the back despite our being only two. It was a Portuguese restaurant , with emphasis on fish and varied fish, which were all very fresh and presented with a flourish. The owner himself assisted us with the choice of wine and main courses and as we waited in eager anticipation the place filled up quickly with locals and tourists of various nationalities.The popularity of the place and the personal touch given is vouched for by the small queue which formed outside for vacant tables. The food as noted elsewhere was excellent and the service delivered courteously and efficiently in a convivial atmosphere. The prices shown were reasonable and easy on the pocket for the standards set. The tip we gave reflected our satisfaction with the dining experience. The Duque ( read Duke) stands out on a street of restaurants ,trying to emulate them, as the first among equals.