- XXL History -

XXL History

The art of transforming from XL to XXL

Located in front of the Assembly of the Republic, XXL by Olivier is the modern reinterpretation of one of Lisbon’s most iconic restaurants. The history of this space dates back to 1994, when Vasco Gallego founded XL, a restaurant that quickly became a meeting point for politicians, artists and Lisbon’s elite. With a classic atmosphere and emblematic dishes such as the famous soufflés and succulent steaks, XL has earned a timeless reputation in the city’s gastronomic scene.

In 2021, the Olivier Group took over management of the space, beginning a new era for this historic restaurant. A regular at XL in the early years of his career, Chef Olivier da Costa saw this acquisition as the perfect opportunity to honor the restaurant’s legacy, preserving its essence, but adding his creative and contemporary signature. This is how XXL by Olivier was born, where tradition and innovation meet to offer a sophisticated and unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Growing from Center, to South and North

The success of the XXL concept wasn’t limited to the capital. In 2023, the restaurant expanded to Quinta do Lago in the Algarve, bringing its sophistication and gastronomic excellence to the south of the country.

Shortly after, Porto also received an XXL by Olivier, consolidating the brand’s presence in major Portuguese cities and reinforcing its status as a benchmark in national restaurants.

In the summer of 2026, the XXL universe continued to grow with the opening of XXL by Olivier Pine Cliffs, the brand’s second location in the Algarve. Part of one of the region’s most exclusive resorts, this new restaurant takes the great XXL classics to a new setting, maintaining the identity that has won over thousands of customers over the years.

Every detail of XXL by Olivier has been designed to provide a memorable experience. From the elegant décor to the careful selection of ingredients, everything in the restaurant reflects the harmony between classic and contemporary.

The menu pays homage to XL’s roots, preserving dishes that have marked generations and presenting new proposals with Olivier da Costa’s signature. Inspired by Portuguese and French cuisine, it combines tradition, creativity, and sophistication in every detail.

Today, with restaurants in Lisbon, Quinta do Lago, Porto, and Pine Cliffs, XXL by Olivier continues to write its history, establishing itself as one of the most prestigious gastronomic concepts in Portugal.

Lisbon

2021

Quinta
do Lago

2023

Porto

2024

Pine
Cliffs

2026

Restaurants

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