Where to Eat in Porto when You Look for Traditional Portuguese Dishes?

Porto is the second biggest city in Portugal and it is known for its vibrant culture, historical streets and traditional dishes. Many tourists look for restaurants in the city to get a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine.

If you’re visiting Porto and are looking for a place to eat traditional Portuguese dishes, here are some of our favourite hotspots.

Restaurant do not Luz

Restaurant do Not Luz is situated in a beautiful location facing the river Douro. It’s known for its tasty seafood dishes, such as octopus salad, squid risotto and grilled sardines. Other dishes such as Portuese-style chicken and veal fricasse are also recommended.

The atmosphere of this restaurant is friendly and welcoming, making it an ideal place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing in the city. The menus are reasonably priced and the service is excellent, so it’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in town.

Cervejaria Pinheiros

Cervejaria Pinheiros is situated across from the old stock exchange building in the historic centre of town. It’s an excellent place to try typical Portuguese dishes like pork stew, chorizo alentejana and tripe. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of Portuguese wines and draft beers, making it a great spot for after-dinner drinks.

The atmosphere is warm and intimate, and the staff are friendly and attentive. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of food and exceptional service more than make up for it.

Taberna Vinho d’Alta

Taberna Vinho d’Alta is located in an old wine cellar in Gaia, close to the city centre. Its specialty is traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern flair. The restaurant offers a menu of meats and fish dishes cooked in local wine and olive oil, along with homemade breads, pastries and pies.

The atmosphere of the restaurant is cozy and warm, perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a casual meal with friends. Prices are on the more reasonable side and the service is excellent, making it a great option for anyone looking for a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Restaurante Assa Peixe

Restaurante Assa Peixe is located close to Zona Ribeirinha in Porto and is known for its traditional Portuguese dishes, particularly fish and seafood. Here you can find classic Portuguese dishes such as caldeirada (fish stew), croquets, shrimp risotto and red snapper with potatoes.

The atmosphere of the restaurant is lively and friendly and the staff are attentive and welcoming. Prices are on the more reasonable side, so it’s a great option for anyone on a budget looking for delicious traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or want to sample traditional cuisine without breaking the bank, Porto has something for everyone. From seafood restaurants to traditional local eateries, you’ll find something to suit your tastes and budget. To check out more traditional Portuguese restaurants in Porto, take a look at TripAdvisor’s list of restaurants in the city.

Insider’s Guide: Where to Eat Traditional Portuguese Dishes in Porto

Porto is a Portuguese paradise that offers travelers stunning views of the Douro river and picturesque historical buildings. The historic city is known for its cobblestone streets, beautiful churches, and spectacular bridges such as the famous Dom Luis I Bridge. Tourists visiting Porto can get a taste of rich Portuguese culture and sample the traditional dishes that the city has to offer.

Local Attractions in Porto

Porto has several attractions for tourists, beginning with the famous Ribeira district, one of the oldest and most picturesque parts of the city. Visitors can enjoy the colorful traditional houses along the Douro river, or visit the São Francisco Church, known for its baroque architecture. To appreciate Porto’s history, tourists can check out the Livraria Lello bookshop, featuring the iconic red stairway that inspired Harry Potter’s Hogwarts design. Another option is the Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace), showcasing the best of Portugal’s opulent 19th-century architecture.

Traditional Portuguese Dishes in Porto

Porto is known for its delicious and traditional Portuguese cuisine. One must-try dish is the Francesinha, a sandwich filled with meats and covered in melted cheese and a tomato sauce. For an excellent dining experience in the city, visit the century-old cookbook institution called, Four Seasons in Rua Mouzinho da Silveira. Here, visitors can try the traditional dish of tripas à moda do Porto, a delicious dish made of offal, white beans, and vegetables. For seafood lovers, the Matosinhos neighborhood has an abundance of seafood restaurants that offer different types of fish and shellfish.

Cultural Experiences in Porto

Porto boasts an array of cultural experiences for visitors to engage in. For instance, a visit to the Museum of the Tram, Museu do Carro Eléctrico, provides a glimpse into the transportation history of the city. Another option is to visit Serralves Foundation, showcasing the best of Portuguese modern art. Furthermore, the São João National Theater offers tourists a chance to experience the city’s theater scene, specifically, the traditional Portuguese plays.

Local History

Porto has its share of historical insights, such as a visit to the Sé do Porto Cathedral, known for its Romanesque architectural designs dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can also explore the spectacular building of Palácio da Bolsa, established in 1834. To learn more about the city’s history, a visit to the Museum of Porto, located in the former Stock Exchange Palace, offers tourists a historical context of Porto’s past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Apart from the traditional tourist attractions of the city, Porto has several hidden gems that most tourists miss. Firstly, the Livraria Aviz, a 19th-century bookstore, provides a cozy environment for book lovers to enjoy. Secondly, a walk along the Rua Miguel Bombarda Street in the area of Cedofeita offers visitors a quiet, artistic vibe, filled with galleries, cafes, and boutiques. Lastly, a visit to the Crystal Palace Gardens provides a serene environment to relax and savor the stunning views of the Douro River.

In conclusion, Porto is a remarkable city with cultural, historical, and gastronomic experiences to offer its visitors. Tourists can enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine, explore the rich history, understand local culture, and engage in off-the-beaten-path excursions. Happy travels!