Porto's gastronomy is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, offering a delightful mix of traditional flavours and modern culinary innovation. The city boasts a plethora of dining options, from charming family-run Tascas and elegant Art Nouveau cafés to affordable eateries and Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants. Porto's culinary scene is experiencing a renaissance, driven by a new generation of adventurous Portoenses who are eager to embrace fresh, exciting influences alongside their cherished traditional fare.
For a true taste of Porto, you simply must try some of the city's iconic dishes. Dive into a Francesinha, a hearty sandwich layered with meats, covered in melted cheese, and smothered in a rich beer sauce. Or savour the famous Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá, a comforting casserole of salt cod, potatoes, and onions. For seafood lovers, the Mercado do Bolhão market is a must-visit, where you can enjoy freshly grilled sardines at unbeatable prices, providing a truly local experience.
If you're on a budget, head to the Baixa area around Praça da Batalha, where you’ll find a variety of inexpensive dining options, especially near the university district. Whether you're a foodie or a casual diner, Porto's gastronomic delights are sure to leave you craving more…
| Bakery Window
Café culture is a cherished tradition in Portugal, and Porto is no exception. The Portuguese love their caffeine and have a penchant for sweets, making the city's café scene both vibrant and diverse. While international coffee shop brands are beginning to appear, the majority of cafés and bakeries in Porto remain proudly local. Many of these establishments boast a rich history and a charming bohemian atmosphere.
Porto's café culture offers something for everyone, from traditional pastry shops to a growing number of vegetarian and health-conscious eateries catering to modern tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pastel de nata or a freshly brewed espresso, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Let MADABOUTPORTUGAL.COM be your ultimate guide to discovering the best cafés and bakeries in Porto. We can help you find the perfect spot that matches your preferences. Why not choose a cosy café in a quiet square or a riverside bakery with ample outdoor seating? Sit back, relax, and enjoy some people-watching as you soak up the unique ambience of Porto's café culture.
This swanky coffee shop is where true coffee lovers go. The choice of artisan beverages on offer are worth the walk across the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia on it's own and definitely a must-do if in the area. Arabica beans are sourced from around the world and roasted in house. Ask about the daily special. The establishment is nestled within narrow streets just behind the quayside and the port lodges. The interior is light yet friendly with ample comfortable seating. 7g Roaster is also a great place for lunch with an interesting menu of sandwiches, panini, wraps, toasts, soups, pancakes and gourmet burgers. They also serve beers and cocktails. 7g Roaster also rent out modern stylish apartments at reasonable rates above the coffee shop.
Daily: 10h00 - 19h00
52 Rua França, 4400-174, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal.
41º 08' 11.8" N | 08º 36' 49.6" W
+351 963 781 916 |
cafe@7groaster.pt | Website
Since opening in August 2018 Bird of Passage has established itself as one of Porto's finest coffee shops. Their own blend is roasted in-house and sits along a fantastic choice of coffees. Also found on the menu are a nice selection of pastries and breakfast/brunch delicacies and a range of sandwiches, wraps and toasts. There are also a number of vegan options available too. The interior is bright and friendly, with distinct turquoise and white tiles.
Wednesday – Monday: 08h00 – 17h00, Tuesday & Tuesday: CLOSED
185–187 Rua do Duque de Loulé, 4000-325 Porto, Portugal.
41º 08" 36.2' N | 09º 36" 18.8' W
+351 916 208 024 | Facebook
Café Majestic's place in every tour book about Porto is well deserved. Since its opening on the 17th December 1921, it's been delighting its customers with its exquisite Art Nouveau decoration, designed by architect João Queiroz. Inside, the scent of leather upholstery and varnished wood is joined by the magnificent vision of the plaster-decorated ceiling and of the endless Flemish mirrors. The experience is an ensemble that marvels all senses. Add in the combination of marble and metal it becomes truly magnificent. At the back of the café, nature rules in the conservatory. It connects Santa Catarina street to Passos Manuel street. A visit and a step back in time are well worth it. Their selection of pastries and cakes are mouth waveringly tempting and well worth the extravagance. They also have a fine selection of tapas and mains if you wish to push the boat out further.
Monday – Saturday 09h30 – 00h00, Sunday: CLOSED
Rua Santa Catarina 112, 4000-442 Porto, Portugal.
41º 08' 49.8" N | 08º 36' 23.8" W
+351 915 138 619 |
geral.salpoente@gmail.com |
Website
Come here for Portos signature francesinha. Café Santiago F won't win any interior design awards. However, it does win awards for its take on Porto's belly-busting sandwich, yet prices remain very reasonable. Have it with fries and a caneca of beer for an authentic Porto experience. Apparently, they serve other dishes too. Located in the Bolhão area of Downtown Porto, close to the market.
Monday - Saturday 12h00 - 23h00, Sunday: CLOSED
Rua de Passos Manuel 226, Porto 4000-382 Portugal.
41º 08' 49.6" N | 08º 36' 27.5" W
+351 222 055 797 | geral@cafesantiago.pt | Website
This iconic bakery/brasserie has been enticing people through their doors with delights exhibited in their windows opposite the entrance of the Bolhão market since 1896. The counter close to the entrance is jam-packed full of tempting pastries, pies, croissants and cakes. They are available to take away or consume at a bar. In addition, there's a delicatessen, confectioners and wine shop ideal for picking up a souvenir or two. There's also a dining area at the rear of the café that offers a wide selection of breakfast and lunch items. The experience of dining here feels like a step back a hundred years. The shop's façade and the interior have remained the same since its inception. When in the area, it would be a shame not to spend some time here and savour the experience.
Monday - Saturday: 07h00 - 20h00, Sunday: CLOSED
339 Rua Formosa, Porto, Portugal.
41º 08" 55.0' N | 08º 36" 27.4' W
+351 223 395 220 | geral@confeitariadobolhao.com | Website
This local chain of bakeries sells traditional cakes and pastries. In addition, they offer a wide range of tasty sandwiches, pies, rissóis and other lunch options. Doce Alto also makes a great choice for breakfast, their friendly staff along with good coffee and croissant served with a smile, sets you up for the day ahead. Those with a sweet tooth will certainly enjoy their range of homemade confectionery.
Daily: 06h00 - 20h00
2190 Rua de Costa Cabral, Porto 4200-218 Portugal.
41° 10' 29.7" N | 08° 35' 11.0" W
+351 219 232 733 | docealto@docealto.pt | Website
Located below the Aliados Hotel, this famous establishment first opened its doors in 1933. The interior was designed by the architect Rogério de Azevedo. The sculptor Henrique Moreira was employed to carve the marble decorations including a South American "Guarany" Indian. It represents Brazil where the beans for their renowned coffee originated from. This tropical theme is in fact seen throughout the interior. Two impressive canvases by the painter Graça de Morais called “The Lords of the Amazon” hang on a wall depicting the daily life of the Guarany tribe.
Guarany was known as the "musicians coffee shop", it's known for its live performances by local artists and from its own resident orchestra. The café obtained a somewhat Bohemian ambience and today hosts Fado evenings on Thursdays and Saturdays. To take a meal or a coffee here is to experience the Avenida dos Aliados in its heyday and the seating outside are ideally placed for day-time people watching.
Daily: 09h00 - 00h00
85/89 Avenida dos Aliados, 4000-066, Porto, Portugal.
41° 08' 51.8" N | 08° 36' 41.1" W
+351 223 321 272 | guarany@mail.telepac.pt | Website
A quirky themed café where you can get a generous and tasty breakfast or brunch before renting a bike to work off the calories. The decor is bright and airy with furniture formed from recycled materials. There is a healthy focus on the menu with a few vegan/vegetarian options included. The family team run a first-come first-served basis, with no reservations available.
Daily: 08:30 - 16:00
68-72 Rua das Taipas, Porto, Porto District, Portugal.
41° 08' 34.7" N | 08° 37' 02.4" W
+351 927 174 181 | hungrybikercafe@gmail.com | Facebook
Join a Porto food and wine tasting tour to savour the city's beloved cafés and markets. Indulge in regional delights, from sweet custard tarts to savoury bolinho de bacalhau codfish cakes. Sample Port wine and discover its rich history and cultural impact.
With fascinating gastronomy facts from your local guide, explore Porto's historic Ribeira district, and visit traditional cafes, and generations-old taverns. This tour will satisfy your appetite and enrich your culinary knowledge.
Book Online ►
Experience Porto's culture through its food on this Portuguese food tour. Sample local gastronomy with dishes ranging from cheeses and sausages to main courses and street food. Enjoy wine tastings as part of the complete Portuguese meal experience. This tour is perfect for food lovers, providing enough food to make up at least one meal. Receive insider tips on the best places to eat and drink. A small group setting ensures personalized attention from your guide. Don't miss this delicious journey through Porto's culinary landscape.
Book Online ►
Discover Porto's thriving beer scene on this beer-tasting tour. Meet your guide in the evening and set off with a small group to visit local beer destinations, including brewpubs and beer shops.
Enjoy beer samples paired with local bites and learn about the brewing process on insider tours. This small-group tour, capped at 10, offers a personal way to explore and feel like a local in Porto's hippest beer spots.
Book Online ►
Award winning Portuguese Chef Rui Paula has applied his own creative twist to Portuguese classic dishes. His DOC restaurant in the Douro has gained deserved notoriety for excellence and now Rui Paula has brought his magic touch to his hometown, Porto. DOP is found within the walls of the Palace of arts (Palácio das Artes) and serves such renown dishes such as Roasted leg of goat, black pork, octopus and bacalhau. There are also a good selection of vegetarian options on the menu. The wine menu is extensive, including ports and champagne, sold by the glass or bottle. Look at the economic lunch-time menu.
Tuesday – Saturday: 12h30 - 15h00/19h00 - 23h00
Sunday: CLOSED, Monday: 19h00 - 23h00
Palácio das Artes, 18 Largo de S. Domingos, 4050-545 Porto, Portugal.
41° 08′ 34.1″ N | 08° 36′ 52.7″ W
+351 222 014 313 | dop@ruipaula.com | Website
O Escondidinho first opened their doors in 1934 during the first great Portuguese Colonial Exhibition which took place in the Palácio de Cristal and have been delighting diners ever since with their French inspired cuisine. Local dishes appear on the menu too including Tripas á Modo do Porto and roasted kid.
During the long history of the restaurant they've served many distinguished customers including King Carlos of Spain . That said the atmosphere remains homely and the staff are jovial and welcoming.
Daily: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 – 23h00
142 Rua Passos Manuel, 4000-382 Porto, Portugal.
41º 08" 48.5' N | 08º 36" 21.7' W
+351 222 001 079 | geral@escondidinho.pt | Website
There are many great fish restaurants in Matosinhos and this one by many peoples opinion is the best. The decor is light and airy, complete with a rowing boat attached to the ceiling. Fresh fish cooked on a grill (na brasa) sold by the KG, check individual price before ordering it will be cheaper. Other dishes, including their fantastic squid feijoada are for 2 people. The food is always excellent and the staff professional yet friendly and welcoming.
Daily: 12h30 - 23h00
Restaurante Piscina Azenhas do Mar, Azenhas do Mar 2705-104, Colares, Portugal.
38º 50" 26.2' N | 09º 27" 44.0' W
+351 219 280 739 | geral@azenhasdomar.com | Website
A must for steak lovers, dinning experience of this calibre is hard to beat. The staff are amazingly friendly and accommodating who, along with the fantastic food, will make your evening an unforgettable experience. Amongst the starters look out for their homemade Scotch eggs and cheese gratins. MUU offers various cuts of beef including the mouth watering Black Angus steak. Portions are very generous, which compensates for the high prices somewhat.
Daily: 19h00 - 00h00
149A Rua do almada, 4050-037 Porto, Portugal.
41º 08" 50.2' N | 08º 36" 43.7' W
+351 914 784 032 | info@muusteakhouse.com | Website
Portucale provides five-star service, excellent food and stunning panoramic views. Situated on the top of a tower block in Bonfim Portucale has been serving the same fare since 1969. There's a nod to French cuisine on the menu but traditional local food dominate such as tripas and bacalhau à marinheiro. Dessert is enticed to you from a squeaky trolly. The lunch time menu is great value and worth the effort of travelling here.
Daily: 12h30 - 14h30/19h30 - 22h30
598 Rua da Alegria, Porto, 4000-037, Portugal.
41º 09" 21.3' N | 08º 36" 08.7' W
+351 225 370 717 | rest.portucale@miradouro-portucale.com | Website
The extraordinary panorama of the River Douro and the historic centre of Porto guarantee spectacular scenery, combined with two Michelin stars, awarded in the 2017 Michelin Guide, makes the dining experience at The Yeatman something unique. The Yeatman Gastronomic Restaurant led by Chef Ricardo Costa, offers imaginative cuisine in which the traditional flavours of Portugal are interpreted and presented with contemporary flair. It showcases Portugal's huge range of fish and other fresh produce as well as its diversity of regional specialities. Fixed seasonal tasting menu consisting of 8-10 courses at €170 per person.
There are two optional wine supplements of €80 and €170 per person to accompany your experience. Chef Ricardo Costa's Tasting Menu is regularly updated and might therefore be changed at any time.
Seatings: 19h00 | 20h00 | 21h00
8 Rua Barbosa du Bocage, 2710-517, Sintra, Portugal.
38° 47' 47.1" N | 09° 23' 58.1" W
+351 219 233 200 | experience.tpds@tivolihotels.com | Website
Located in an alley in the centre of Porto Costume Bistro is a homely relaxed restaurant famed for it's distinctive international touch to national dishes. The decor is warmly lit creating a romantic ambience. The menu is varied which should keep everyone happy. The food is constantly good quality at sensible prices. The staff are warm and welcoming with good language skills.
Porto Card: 15%
Weekdays: 12h30 – 15h00/19h30 - 23h00
Saturday: 19h30 - 01h00
Travessa Congregados 17, Porto 4000-179 Portugal. |
41° 08' 50.1" N | 08° 36' 37.7" W
+351 222 015 015 | Website
Italian-Portuguese fusion restaurant situated close to Trindade metro station. Clean and tidy but unpretentious. A good selection of steaks as well as pasta dishes. Bring a big appetite as portions are generous. Seating is spread over two floors and friendly staff are always happy to assist.
Porto Card: 10%
Daily: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 23h00
726 Rua Bonjardim, 4000-119 Porto, Portugal.
41º 09' 10.1" N | 08º 36' 30.4" W
+351 222 031 015
geral@restauranteginjal.com
Website
Two homely rooms make up the Fish Fixe (cool fish) restaurant complete with balconies and windows over looking the river, bridge and views of the Cais de Gaia on the opposite bank, the second floor has the best views. As the name suggests this is a seafood restaurant serving unpretentious dishes with fresh ingredients, at sensible prices and served with a smile.
Porto Card: 10%
Tuesday - Sunday: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 00h00, Monday: CLOSED
22-24 Street Lada, Cais Da Ribeira, Porto 4050-509, Portugal. | 41º 08' 27.1" N | 08º 36' 37.8" W
+351 917 625 408 | fishfixe@iol.pt | Website
After 50 years experience O Caçula have perfected the art of serving excellent food in a friendly and convivial way. There seems to be something on the menu for everyone from tapas, pizzas, traditional Portuguese and vegetarian options. If you find yourself there at lunchtime during the week take advantage of their lunchtime deals. The restaurant's small frontage just off the Praça de Carlos Alberto square hide ample table space inside dispersed over two floors.
Porto Card: 10%
Monday – Friday: 12h00 – 15h00/18h30 – 22h30, Saturday: 12h00 – 00h00, Sunday: 12h00 – 23h00
43 Rua João de Deus, 2710-580 Sintra, Portugal.
41º 08' 54.1" N | 08º 36' 57.9" W
+351222 055 937 | Website
Situated in a former warehouse Adega e Presuntaria Transmontana has been delighting diners with great dishes inspired by the Trás os Montes region since 1998. Ideally located on the quayside in Vila Nova de Gaia with great views of old town Porto across the river. Although Adega E Presuntaria Transmontana is one of many restaurants along the strip this restaurant has a more authentic feel about it. The menu has a mountainous rustic theme with specialties such as wild boar, cured hams, transmontano sausages, rustic cheeses and partridge, along with usual Portuguese classics. Service is friendly and welcoming but can feel busy at peak times. Those with room left after their mains can opt for an "all you can eat" dessert buffet for just €7.00.
Daily: 12h00 - 02h00
80 Av. de Diogo Leite, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. | 41º 08' 15.3" N | 08º 36' 49.1" W
+351 223 758 380
presuntariatransmontana@gmail.com
Essência champions the best produce North Portugal has to offer which isn't meat and as such is a rarity in this region where meat is so prized. Just north of Casa da Música and away from the touristy centre the creations at Essência are beautifully presented and thankfully as tasty as they look. Dishes are varied and range from curries to salads and risotto, with vegan and gluten-free options also available. There are a few non-vegetarian items on the menu too.
Tuesday – Saturday: 12h30 – 14h30/20h00 – 23h00, Sunday & Monday: CLOSED
Rua de Pedro Hispano 1196, Porto 4250-365 Portugal.
41º 09" 55.4' N | 08º 37" 47.8' W
+351 228 301 813/960 492 992
geral@essenciarestaurantevegetariano.com
Website
Step back a few yards from the quayside (Ribeira) where finding a table at a restaurant can be difficult and explore the back alleys you'll encounter little gems like this small family run eatery. A Grade is primarily a fish restaurant with half a dozen tables inside and a few more on a terrace outside, reservations for dinner advisable. Ferreria and Helena are a husband and wife team who make you feel at home. Portions are as generous as the smiles, you won't be allowed to leave unsatisfied. The choice on the menu is extensive and the tables on their wine list are from small unknown wineries. House style bacalhau, rabbit and octopus are their signature dishes.
Monday – Saturday: 12h00 - 16:00/18h30 - 22h30, Sunday: CLOSED
9 Rua de São Nicolau, Porto 4050-561 Portugal.
41° 08' 25.7" N | 08° 36' 53.7" W
+351 223 321 130
With outside seating on a second level terrace overlooking the quayside which has the feeling t=you have front row seats to a beautiful view and a people-watching performance. Wine Quay Bar is a celebration of Portuguese wines, it's diversity and unique qualities. The petiscos or small plates here are served as compliments to the wine, enjoy delicacies such as cheeses, cured hams, choriço, breads, salads and olives. The atmosphere here is chilled and a stark contrast to the hubbub further along the Ribeira. There are a few tables inside but the terrace is the place to be, especially at sunset.
Monday - Saturday: 16h00 - 23h00, Sunday: CLOSED
111 Muro dos Bacalhoeiros, 4050-080, Porto, Portugal.
41º 08" 23.9' N | 08º 36" 55.3' W
+351 222 080 119
winequaybar@gmail.com | Website
O Tascö aspires to be trendy, and does in fact draws the in-crowd, with it's cool decor, typographically designed menus and the presentation of the dishes which land on your table. That aside Tascö deserves it's popularity and credit on merit of the food alone. Traditional Portuguese fare with a cheeky twist, well portioned and reasonably priced. The staff are very welcoming and treat you like old friends. For a extensive Portuguese experience choose a selection of Petiscos (small dishes) but it's probably a good idea to make a reservation first.
Weekdays: 12h00 - 14h30/19h15 – 01h00, Weekends: 19h15 – 01h00, Monday: CLOSED
151A Rua do almada, 4050-037 Porto, Portugal.
41º 08' 50.2" N | 08º 36' 43.7" W
+351 924 262 233
info@otasco.pt | Website
This restaurant has churchy feel about it, the story is it was a pilgrim's retreat. Those walking the caminho trail to Santiago de Compostela would stop here to rest and recoup. Since 1939 it's been serving good ol' fashioned homely meals at sensible prices. Belly-busters on the menu include roast kid, bacalhau à Gomes Sá, Porto tripas, and grilled meat and fish. Portions are large enough to share. Keep some room for their chocolate-flavoured pão-de-ló for dessert. Abadia do Porto is equally popular with tourists and locals alike, booking advisable.
Monday – Saturday: 11h45 – 15h30/18h30 – 23h00, Sunday: CLOSED.
22–24 Rua Ateneu Comercial do Porto, 22/200–8757, Porto, Portugal.
41º 08' 53.0" N | 08º 36' 27.7" W
+351 222 008 757
geral@abadiadoporto.com | Website
Portuguese tapas offered in a chill setting with decorative tiles & glitzy chandeliers over the bar. Crawling or dinning Caldeireiros is a great choice, with an interesting selection of dishes, look out for the alheira de caça, a garlic laden wild-game sausage. Long communal candlelit tables help form the relaxed atmosphere. Service is swift and very friendly, staff are more than happy to talk you though the menu.
Monday – Saturday: 12h30 – 15h30/18h30 – 00h30, Sunday: CLOSED
139 Rua dos Caldeireiros, Porto 4050-139, Portugal
41º 08" 41.5' N | 08º 36" 49.9' W
+351 23 214 074
Website
Cachorrinho translates in Portuguese as puppy or little dog, yet in Porto Cachorrinho means a tasty lunch. This Portuguese take on a hot dog has become popular this past few decades but at Gazela they have been serving them for 50 years and proclaim to be the original. Take a thin crispy baguette filled with a smoked sausage (sometimes an alheira), some cheese and a splash of spicy sauce and there you have it: a Cachorrinho. Chips (batatas fritas) are optional, ice cold beer obligatory. Other items on the menu include Francesinha, Pica Pau, steaks and a range of sandwiches. Now in two locations:
Tuesdays – Sundays: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 22h00, Monday: CLOSED
8-10 Rua de Entreparedes, 4000-4234, Porto.
41º 08" 41.9' N | 08º 36" 23.1' W
4 Travesso Cimo de Vila, 4000-434 Porto.
41º 08" 41.5' N | 08º 36" 27.3' W
geral@cervejariagazela.pt | Website
2024 © Mad About Portugal. All rights reserved | Privacy Policy
Lisbon Card 
