When it comes to luxurious evenings in Lisbon, it doesn’t get much better than a trip to the opulent SUD Lisboa. Having recently celebrated its three-year anniversary after its initial inauguration in July 2017, this five-star, €16 million fine dining, entertainment and events venue promises an experience you’ll never forget, set on the picturesque riverfront in the Belém area of the city, and offering the kind of impeccable service to all of its guests that is truly second to none.
This lavish establishment, which has fast made a name for itself thanks to its unique, multi-purpose events space and all-round quality experience, is one of the latest brainchilds of the iconic SANA Group, and with its contemporary yet timeless feel comprising clean, flowing lines that are reminiscent of the 1930’s Art Deco era, it has fast become renowned as much for its interior flair as much as its trendy vibe.
Linger for a while on the stylish SUD Terrazza or the second-floor pool area, taking in sweeping views over the river, and for a moment you could easily feel as if you’re on a luxury cruise liner. Comprising two distinct building structures – the aforementioned Terrazza, and the SUD Lisboa Hall, the two structures are connected by a scenic sky walk. Designed by the renowned architect Antoine Pinto, it offers an instantly upscale ambience and refreshingly cool vibe the moment you set foot through either door.
Salomé Gorgiladze, business development director and executive board member of Group SANA, has played a key role in the project since the start.
“SUD Lisboa continues to focus on offering quality customer service, from its cuisine to its excellent entertainment, to its capacity for innovation. All of these elements place it among the best destinations in the city,” she told Essential Business magazine earlier this year.
Raised in the Republic of Georgia, Salomé spent many years enjoying a long and fruitful career in Switzerland. Having completed her university studies in Geneva, she then went on to work for the United Nations and UNESCO, and the private equity firm, Global Emerging Markets.
“During my university years in Geneva, influenced by such important international organisations and my diplomatic family background, my dream was to build a career in international relations and politics,” she says.
It was while working in global equity that Salomé developed a love for the world of business and decided to do an MBA, opting to embark on her studies in Portugal, where her family were living.
“I ended up falling in love with this beautiful country,” she says – and it certainly isn’t hard to see why.
Comprising beautiful coastlines with golden beaches, lapped by azure waters, it’s little wonder Portugal is a favourite destination amongst European holidaymakers. Lisbon itself is fast becoming a popular choice for city breaks, with its winding, hilly cobbled streets and colourful, beautifully tiled rows of houses and iconic yellow trams. The city is a haven for foodies and culture lovers alike, and it’s easy to imagine wanting to settle down here.
After finishing her master’s degree, Salomé decided to stick around – and in 2015, found herself working on one of her most exciting projects in Lisbon (at SUD Lisboa), which was inaugurated and opened to the public in July 2017.
“This is the first project that SANA has developed outside hospitality, which we decided on because there was no venue in Lisbon that offered a customised events service making all the clients’ dreams come true,” she says excitedly.
“We have created one of the most unique places in Lisbon. The know-how SANA has acquired during 20 years of experience in the hotel business and in hosting luxury high-end events in our hotels made us want to innovate and bring our experience to bear on this project.
“Already the brand equity is very strong and the link with the SANA hotels brand is positive, both for marketing and the image as a whole,” she adds.
SUD Lisboa is certainly designed to impress, and with its 1,600m2, functionally independent multi-purpose space, it offers a huge amount of potential when it comes to hosting the country’s finest events.
So, what exactly can we expect from this spectacular venue?
The infinity pool, located on the top floor of the SUD Lisboa Terrazza building offers a magnificent view of the Tejo River and the iconic Bridge 25 de Abril – making for the perfect place to linger after a long day at the office, or to take a refreshing dip and cool off from the humid Lisbon heat during the day.
The SUD Pool Lounge has become a favourite amongst city slickers, and remains open from 10am to 6pm in the summer. Guests can order a range of Mediterranean salads and snacks to quell their appetites.
From 6pm onwards, a live DJ takes to the stage on a daily basis, with live music acts throughout the week.
Meanwhile, with the capacity to seat up to 240 guests, SUD Lisboa Terrazza offers a gastronomic space known for its panoramic views and stylish sophistication. Executive chef Patrick Lefeuvre is in command in the kitchen and has designed a mouth-watering menu for guests to enjoy, inspired by Mediterranean flavours and featuring classic menu items including pizzas, pastas and risottos.
“To complement the Italian-style menu, there is a wide variety of drinks and attentive service, two other key elements that make this hot spot an absolute must”, says Salome. We don’t need much more convincing; it seems it’s the place to be.
SUD Lisboa Hall, the premium event space, boasts 1,683 square meters (divided between two floors), and holds up to an enormous 1,700 guests.
Here, executive chef Angel Reyes and his team of professionals create a fusion cuisine inspired by the four corners of the globe.
“We have hosted prestigious international events here. From the sophisticated gala that launched OMEGA watches in Portugal and which featured former top model Cindy Crawford, to the awards ceremony for E! Channel Entertainment, to the arrival of HBO in Portugal, SUD Lisboa Hall has been centre-stage of many unforgettable moments,” Salomé explains.
A trip to Lisbon, it seems, wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this trendy establishment, and whether you’re looking for an exciting event to head to or are simply keen to enjoy some delectable cuisine and cocktails as you sit back and take in the breath-taking views, SUD Lisboa is the place to be seen.
Next time you’re in the city, don’t miss it off from your itinerary – because it might just turn out to be the highlight of your trip.
Factbox
Address: MAAT, Avenida Brasília – Pavilhão Poente (ao lado do, 1300-598 Lisboa, Portugal
Phone: +351 21 159 2700
Website: sudlisboa.com
