Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and of course, its delicious cuisine. The city is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants offering traditional Portuguese dishes as well as international cuisine. From cozy family-run eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants, Porto has something to satisfy every palate. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best restaurants in Porto that are a must-visit for any foodie.
1. Casa de Pasto da Palmeira
Located in the heart of Porto’s historic district, Casa de Pasto da Palmeira is a charming restaurant that serves up traditional Portuguese dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant is housed in a 19th-century building and has a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The menu changes daily, depending on the availability of fresh ingredients, but some of the must-try dishes include the octopus rice, grilled sardines, and the famous Francesinha – a hearty sandwich filled with cured meats and covered in a rich tomato and beer sauce. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, featuring some of the best wines from the Douro Valley region.
2. Pedro Lemos
For a fine dining experience in Porto, head to Pedro Lemos, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Foz do Douro neighborhood. The restaurant is run by chef Pedro Lemos, who is known for his creative and innovative approach to traditional Portuguese cuisine. The menu changes seasonally and features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the roasted octopus with sweet potato puree and the suckling pig confit with chestnut puree. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, with a focus on Portuguese wines.
3. Cantinho do Avillez
Owned by celebrity chef José Avillez, Cantinho do Avillez is a popular restaurant in Porto that offers a mix of traditional and modern Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, with a menu that features dishes such as the famous Algarve-style clams, grilled octopus, and the mouth-watering suckling pig. The restaurant also has a bar area where you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink or a post-dinner cocktail. Be sure to try the signature cocktail, “The Avillez,” made with gin, lime, and basil.
4. O Paparico
Located in a 19th-century building in the Bonfim neighborhood, O Paparico is a charming restaurant that offers a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant has a rustic and cozy atmosphere, with exposed stone walls and wooden beams. The menu features dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, such as the roasted lamb with chestnut puree and the codfish confit with cornbread. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, with a focus on wines from the Douro Valley region.
5. A Cozinha do Martinho
For a taste of authentic Portuguese home-cooking, head to A Cozinha do Martinho. This family-run restaurant is located in the heart of Porto’s historic district and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu changes daily, depending on what ingredients are available, but you can expect to find dishes such as the traditional Portuguese stew, “Cozido à Portuguesa,” and the famous “Bacalhau à Brás” – a dish made with shredded codfish, potatoes, and eggs. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable, making this restaurant a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
6. DOP
Located in the Palácio das Artes building, DOP is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a fine dining experience in Porto. The restaurant is run by chef Rui Paula, who is known for his creative and modern approach to Portuguese cuisine. The menu features dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients, such as the roasted octopus with sweet potato puree and the slow-cooked lamb with roasted vegetables. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, with a focus on wines from the Douro Valley region.
7. O Gaveto
For seafood lovers, O Gaveto is a must-visit restaurant in Porto. Located in the Matosinhos neighborhood, this restaurant is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes. The menu features a variety of dishes, from grilled fish to seafood stews, all made with the freshest catch of the day. Some of the must-try dishes include the grilled sardines, the seafood rice, and the famous “Arroz de Marisco” – a rich and flavorful seafood rice dish. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines to pair with your meal.
8. Cafeína
Located in the Foz do Douro neighborhood, Cafeína is a trendy and stylish restaurant that offers a mix of Portuguese and international cuisine. The restaurant has a modern and elegant atmosphere, with a menu that features dishes such as the grilled octopus with sweet potato puree and the beef tenderloin with foie gras. The restaurant also has a great selection of cocktails and a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy your meal with a view of the Douro River.
9. A Grade
For a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine in a cozy and intimate setting, head to A Grade. This family-run restaurant is located in the Cedofeita neighborhood and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, such as the roasted lamb with chestnut puree and the famous “Tripas à Moda do Porto” – a hearty dish made with tripe, beans, and smoked meats. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines to pair with your meal.
10. Ode Porto Wine House
No trip to Porto is complete without trying the city’s famous Port wine. And there’s no better place to do so than at Ode Porto Wine House. Located in the Ribeira neighborhood, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience, with a menu that is designed to pair perfectly with different types of Port wine. The menu features dishes such as the roasted pork belly with chestnut puree and the grilled octopus with sweet potato puree, all paired with different types of Port wine. The restaurant also offers wine tastings and tours of their wine cellar, making it a must-visit for any wine lover.
In conclusion, Porto is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants offering traditional Portuguese dishes as well as international cuisine. From cozy family-run eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something for every palate in this vibrant city. So, the next time you find yourself in Porto, be sure to check out these top restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience.
Gonzalo
Founder/Owner of The Lisbon Guide, one of the major blog references in Portugal, established in 2014 and receiving every year 250.000 visitors from all over the world, looking to provide the best experiences in Portugal. In partnership with Portugal Magik for all private tours and transfers across Portugal, Gonzalo loves a good seafood meal at Monte Mar Cascais, and all from Michelin Chef Avillez. Favorite Hotel in Lisbon/Portugal, Penha Longa Resort by Ritz Carlton.
For over 15 years, Gonzalo have been helping thousands of travelers yearly to plan a perfect trip to Portugal. Based in Lisbon/Cascais and working in this field for over 20 years, with multiple ongoing projects. Also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide.
Many years working also as a Private Guide of Lisbon, Sintra, Fatima, Porto, Douro Valley, Evora, and other locations in Portugal.
