Looking for the best restaurants in Porto? Then you’re in the right place.
I was born and raised in Porto, and I still live here today. While I love traveling, one of my favorite things to do when I’m home is exploring the city’s food scene.
As a foodie, I’m always searching for new places to try, from traditional Portuguese taverns and family-run restaurants to trendy hotspots and hidden gems.
That’s exactly why I created this Porto restaurant guide.
In this post, you’ll find my favorite restaurants in the city, along with plenty of local tips to help you decide where to eat in Porto.
Instead of putting all the recommendations into one long list, I’ve organized them by mood and type of cuisine, making it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, craving authentic Portuguese food, looking for great tapas, or searching for the best Italian restaurants in town, this guide covers some of the best places to eat in Porto for every occasion.
And if you’re planning a trip to Porto, be sure to also check out my Porto itinerary, my guide to the best cafés in Porto, and my roundup of the best rooftop bars and terraces in Porto for even more local recommendations.
💡 Looking for a deeper introduction to Porto’s food scene? I recently joined this Porto food and wine tour and absolutely loved the experience.
It’s a great way to discover some of the city’s traditional dishes, learn more about Porto’s culinary culture, and visit local spots you might otherwise miss.
Even as someone who was born and raised in Porto, I genuinely enjoyed it and came away with a few new discoveries along the way.
Short on time? Here are my top picks:
🏆 Best traditional Portuguese restaurant: Adega de São Nicolau
🥪 Best francesinha: Lado B
🐟 Best seafood restaurant: Lage Senhor do Padrão
🥩 Best meat restaurant: Belos Aires
🥗 Best vegetarian restaurant: Seiva
🍷 Best tapas restaurant: Casa de Pasto da Palmeira
❤️ Best romantic restaurant: Flow
🍝 Best Italian restaurant: Muti
🥟 Best Asian restaurant: Thamel
Best restaurants in Porto for every mood
Best restaurants in Porto for traditional Portuguese food
If you want to eat like a local in Porto, traditional Portuguese restaurants are the best place to start. From hearty meat dishes to fresh seafood and family recipes passed down through generations, these restaurants offer some of the best food in Porto and an authentic taste of the city’s culinary traditions.
» Adega de São Nicolau (€€€)
This restaurant is located in Ribeira, one of Porto’s most picturesque neighborhoods. While many restaurants in Ribeira tend to cater mainly to tourists, this is one of the few exceptions I genuinely recommend.
It’s a long-standing local favorite that serves excellent traditional Portuguese food in a cozy setting. Don’t miss the octopus fillets with octopus rice, one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de São Nicolau 1, 4050-561 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Octopus fillets with octopus rice
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Solar Moinho de Vento (€€)
If you’re looking for a traditional Portuguese restaurant in Porto that has remained popular with locals for decades, Solar Moinho de Vento is an excellent choice. Located near Carlos Alberto Square, this family-run restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic Portuguese dishes.
The menu features many of the comfort foods that define Portuguese cuisine, making it a great place to experience authentic local flavors. It’s one of those restaurants I often recommend to visitors who want to eat like a local in Porto and enjoy a traditional dining experience away from the city’s trendier spots.
📍 LOCATION: Ruade Sá de Noronha 81, 4050-527 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Roasted goat or one of the daily traditional specials
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Casa Paraíso (€)
Casa Paraíso is one of those classic Porto restaurants that locals have been visiting for years. Located near Faria Guimarães metro station, it’s not in the most touristy part of the city, but that’s part of its charm. The atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, with the focus on good food and generous portions.
While the restaurant may not impress you with its décor, it more than makes up for it with consistently good traditional Portuguese dishes and excellent value. If you’re looking to eat like a local in Porto, this is the kind of place that offers an authentic experience away from the crowds.
📍 LOCATION: Rua do Paraíso 246, 4000-376 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Roast beef
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended during weekends
Best restaurants in Porto to try francesinha (& other snacks)
No Porto food guide would be complete without mentioning the city’s most iconic dish: the famous francesinha.
If there’s one thing you should try in Porto, it’s this indulgent sandwich made with layers of steak, sausage, ham, melted cheese, and a rich beer-based sauce. It may sound like an unusual combination, but trust me… most people fall in love with it after the first bite.
In fact, asking locals where to find the best francesinha in Porto is almost guaranteed to start a heated debate.
But Porto’s food scene goes far beyond francesinhas. From spicy cachorrinhos (small hot dogs served in crispy bread) to traditional pork sandwiches, these are some of the local specialties you shouldn’t miss if you want to experience some of the best food in Porto.
💡 LOCAL TIP: Many travel guides will tell you to head to Casa Guedes for its famous pork sandwiches. While it’s undoubtedly one of Porto’s most historic food institutions, I personally think it has become quite tourist-focused over the years. If you’re looking for a more authentic local experience, I’d recommend Casa Expresso’s sandes de rojão instead.
» Lado B (€)
If you’re trying a francesinha for the first time, Lado B is one of the places I recommend most often. Located in downtown Porto, it serves one of my favorite versions of this iconic sandwich, with a rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly crispy fries on the side.
There are endless debates about who serves the best francesinha in Porto, but Lado B consistently ranks among the top restaurants in Porto for this local specialty. Just be prepared for a wait, especially during weekends and if you don’t arrive early.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de Passos Manuel 190 Frente, 4000-382 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Francesinha
📅 RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
Another classic name whenever people talk about francesinhas is Café Santiago. It’s one of the most famous spots in the city and has won several awards over the years, making it a popular stop for both locals and visitors.
While I personally prefer Lado B, Café Santiago is still worth considering if you want to try one of Porto’s most iconic dishes. Like most francesinha restaurants, queues can get quite long during peak hours.
💡 LOCAL TIP: If you want to skip the crowds in Porto’s city center, head to Café Offline in Vila Nova de Gaia. Besides Lado B, it serves one of my favorite francesinhas in the Porto area and is only a short walk from João de Deus metro station.
» Gazela & Mirone (€)
Francesinhas may get most of the attention, but another local favorite is the famous cachorrinho. Think of it as a small spicy hot dog served in a crispy baguette, often topped with melted cheese. It’s simple, delicious, and one of the best foods in Porto for a quick bite.
For the best cachorrinhos in Porto, I recommend Cervejaria Gazela or Mirone. Each has its loyal fans, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of them.
📍 LOCATION: Various locations across Porto and Gaia
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Cachorrinhos
📅 RESERVATIONS: Not accepted in Gazela and it’s usually crowded
» Casa Expresso (€)
If you want to eat like a local in Porto, skip the touristy spots and head straight to Casa Expresso. This is tasca culture at its finest: simple, authentic, affordable, and packed with regulars who have been coming here for years.
The star of the menu is the famous sandes de rojão—a pork sandwich that’s full of flavor and one of my favorite traditional snacks in Porto. It’s not a place you’ll find in most tourist guides, which is exactly why it deserves a spot on this list.
📍 LOCATION: Praça de Carlos Alberto 73, 4050-158 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Sandes de rojão
📅 RESERVATIONS: Not required but it gets crowded during weekends and Friday nights
» Conga (€)
Another Porto institution worth mentioning is Conga. Famous for its bifanas, this small and unpretentious restaurant has been serving locals and visitors for decades and remains one of the city’s most iconic spots for a quick bite.
What makes Conga special is its secret sauce, served over thin slices of pork tucked inside a small bread.
The sauce has a slightly spicy kick that gives the sandwich its distinctive flavor and keeps people coming back for more. Simple, affordable, and packed with flavor, it’s one of those classic Porto experiences that every visitor should try at least once.
📍 LOCATION: Rua do Bonjardim 318, 4000-115 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Bifanas
📅 RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
Best restaurants in Porto for meat lovers
If you’re craving a perfectly cooked steak or high-quality grilled meat, Porto has plenty of excellent options. From traditional Portuguese meat dishes to Argentine-inspired restaurants, these are some of my favorite spots when I’m in the mood for a meat-focused meal.
» Terminal 4450 (€€€)
Located in Matosinhos, Terminal 4450 is one of those restaurants I keep coming back to whenever I’m craving great meat. The atmosphere is relaxed, the service is consistently attentive, and the quality of the ingredients is excellent.
It’s also one of the top restaurants in Porto for meat lovers, with generous portions and a menu that focuses on premium cuts cooked to perfection. If you’re willing to venture a little outside Porto’s city center, it’s absolutely worth the trip.
📍 LOCATION: Av. Antunes Guimarães, 4450-620 Leça da Palmeira (Matosinhos)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Premium grilled meat cuts
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Belos Aires (€€€)
If you’re looking for a more central option, Belos Aires is an excellent choice. This cozy restaurant brings Argentine influences to Porto and has built a loyal following thanks to its consistently high-quality meat dishes.
The atmosphere is intimate and welcoming, making it a great option for both casual dinners and special occasions. Their attention to ingredients and cooking techniques is what makes this place stand out from many other meat restaurants in the city. Their empanadas are also delicious.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de José Falcão 115, 4050-198 Porto (also available in Gaia)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Argentine-style grilled meats
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Prégar (€€)
Sometimes you’re not looking for a big steak dinner, you just want a great prego. If that’s the case, Prégar is one of my favorite places in Porto.
Located near Rua das Flores, this small and laid-back restaurant specializes in pregos, a traditional Portuguese beef sandwich that’s simple but incredibly satisfying. The meat is tender, flavorful, and cooked just right. It’s the perfect option if you’re looking for a quick bite without sacrificing quality.
📍 LOCATION: Lgo de S. Domingos 96, 4050-265 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Traditional prego sandwich
📅 RESERVATIONS: Not usually required
» Lareira (€)
Another local favorite for meat lovers is Lareira. With several locations across Porto, including one right in the downtown area, it’s one of those reliable spots that I return to again and again when craving a good prego.
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the prego sandwich. The beef is incredibly tender, juicy, and full of flavor, proving that simple food can sometimes be the most satisfying.
It’s also one of the more affordable options on this list, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a quick and budget-friendly meal without compromising on quality.
📍 LOCATION: Rua Das Oliveiras 8, 4050-159 Porto (more locations available)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Traditional prego sandwich
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended. Lareira is extremely popular on weekends and Friday nights.
Best restaurants in Porto for fish and seafood
Thanks to its location by the Atlantic Ocean, Porto is a fantastic destination for seafood lovers. If you’re looking for some of the best food in Porto, fresh fish and seafood should definitely be on your list.
While you’ll find seafood restaurants throughout the city, I recommend heading to Matosinhos or the nearby coastal areas (Afurada in Vila Nova de Gaia is also a great option), where many restaurants source their fish directly from the local market and fishing boats.
If your main goal is to enjoy the freshest fish possible, try to avoid visiting seafood restaurants on Sundays and Mondays. Most fishing boats don’t go out to sea over the weekend, so the freshest catch is usually available from Tuesday onwards.
» Salta o Muro (€€)
Located just steps away from Matosinhos Fish Market (Lota de Matosinhos), Salta o Muro is one of those places that hasn’t changed much over the years and that’s exactly why locals love it. The restaurant is small, traditional, and completely focused on serving excellent seafood.
This is one of my favorite places for octopus fillets with octopus rice, a dish that’s become increasingly difficult to find done well. The menu changes depending on what’s available, and some specialties are only served on specific days, which is part of the charm.
📍 LOCATION: Rua Heróis de França 386, 4450-155 Matosinhos (Matosinhos)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Octopus fillets with octopus rice
📅 RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
» Lage Senhor do Padrão (€€)
Another longtime favorite in Matosinhos, Lage Senhor do Padrão is the kind of restaurant where the freshness of the fish speaks for itself. Located close to the beach and fish market, it’s a popular choice among locals looking for a traditional seafood meal.
The menu varies depending on the daily catch, but you can always expect high-quality grilled fish prepared simply and served the Portuguese way. If you’re looking for an authentic seafood experience rather than a trendy restaurant, this is a great option.
Like many traditional seafood restaurants in Matosinhos, queues can be long on weekends, so arriving early is always a good idea.
📍 LOCATION: R. Heróis de França 516, 4450-159 (Matosinhos)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Seafood rice (arroz de marisco) and Seabass
📅 RESERVATIONS: Not accepted. Be there as early as you can.
» Casa da Guripa (€€€)
If you’re looking for a more refined seafood experience, Casa da Guripa is well worth the short drive from Porto. Located in Lavra, near the coast, this intimate restaurant combines high-quality ingredients with a more creative approach to Portuguese cuisine.
While seafood is the highlight here, you’ll also find excellent meat dishes on the menu. My personal favorites are the seafood rice and the tempura prawns with sweet and sour sauce. It’s the kind of restaurant that’s perfect for a longer, more relaxed meal by the ocean.
📍 LOCATION: Tv. de Angeiras 20, 4455-042 Lavra (Lavra)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Seafood rice and tempura prawns
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended (it’s a small restaurant)
Best restaurants in Porto for vegetarians
Porto’s food scene may be famous for meat-heavy dishes like francesinhas and grilled meats, but there are also some excellent vegetarian restaurants across the city. Whether you’re vegetarian full-time or simply looking for a lighter meal, these are a few places I genuinely recommend.
» Terrárea (€)
Located in Matosinhos, Terrárea is one of the most beautiful vegetarian-friendly spots in the Porto area. The space is bright, welcoming, and filled with natural elements, making it a great choice for a relaxed lunch or brunch.
The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Even non-vegetarians will find plenty to enjoy here, which is probably one of the reasons why it has become so popular.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de Brito Capelo 1211, 4450-078 (Matosinhos)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Seasonal brunch dishes and homemade desserts
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended on weekends
» Fava Tonka (€€€)
If you’re looking for a more creative vegetarian dining experience, Fava Tonka is an excellent choice. Located in Matosinhos, this restaurant has built a strong reputation for its inventive approach to vegetarian cuisine and beautifully presented dishes.
The menu changes regularly depending on the season, and the chefs do an excellent job of transforming simple ingredients into something memorable. It’s the kind of restaurant that proves vegetarian food can be just as exciting as any other type of cuisine.
📍 LOCATION: R. Santa Catarina 100, 4450-635 Leça da Palmeira (Matosinhos)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Seasonal tasting dishes
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Seiva (€€€)
For a true fine dining experience, Seiva is one of the most interesting restaurants in Porto. The restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients and beautifully executed dishes that showcase just how sophisticated vegetarian cuisine can be.
The menu is intentionally small, and portions are on the refined side, but every dish is thoughtfully prepared and packed with flavor.
📍 LOCATION: Porto PT, R. Sarmento Pimentel 63, 4450-790 (Leça da Palmeira)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: The tasting menu
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Espécie (€€)
Located in downtown Porto, Espécie is one of my favorite vegetarian-friendly restaurants in the city. The atmosphere is relaxed, the terrace is especially pleasant on warmer days, and the menu offers a creative take on plant-based cuisine without feeling overly complicated.
Even if you’re not vegetarian, this is the kind of place that might surprise you. My favorite dish is undoubtedly the fried cauliflower “KFC chicken”. It’s crispy, flavorful, and so good that you’ll probably forget you’re eating vegetables.
📍 LOCATION: Rua da Picaria 84, 4050-477 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Fried cauliflower “KFC chicken”
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended for dinner
Best restaurants in Porto for tapas
Looking for the best tapas in Porto? While traditional Spanish tapas aren’t particularly common in the city, there are several restaurants serving delicious small plates and sharing dishes that are perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
» Borboleta (€€€)
Borboleta is one of the newest additions to Porto’s food scene and quickly became one of my favorite places for sharing plates. Located near Palácio de Cristal, the concept revolves around seasonal dishes designed to be shared, making every visit a little different.
Since the menu changes regularly, there’s always something new to try. Everything I’ve tasted here has been excellent, but if there’s one thing you shouldn’t leave without ordering, it’s the lime pie. It’s easily one of my favorite desserts in Porto. If you’d like a closer look at the restaurant, you can also check out my full video review.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de D Manuel II 346, 4050-344 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Menu changes frequently but I loved the lime pie for dessert
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Casa de Pasto da Palmeira (€€)
Located in Foz, Casa de Pasto da Palmeira is one of Porto’s most beloved restaurants for sharing plates and, quite honestly, probably my favorite place for tapas in Porto. I’ve been coming here regularly for years, and it’s one of those restaurants that never disappoints.
The concept is simple: order several dishes for the table and share everything. The menu blends traditional Portuguese flavors with creative twists, resulting in dishes that are both comforting and memorable.
My personal favorites include the alheira muffins, the famous ovos à Rui, and the apple crumble for dessert. The restaurant is quite small and very popular, so booking ahead is always a good idea.
📍 LOCATION: Rua do Passeio Alegre 450, 4150-572 Porto (Foz)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Alheira muffins, ovos à Rui, and apple crumble
📅 RESERVATIONS: Highly recommended
» Cantina 32 (€€€)
While Cantina 32 isn’t a traditional tapas restaurant, it’s one of my favorite places in Porto for sharing food with friends. The menu features a mix of Portuguese-inspired dishes and smaller plates.
Located in the heart of downtown Porto, the restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a menu designed for trying different flavors. It’s the kind of place where I usually end up ordering several dishes to share, which is exactly why I think it deserves a spot on this list.
📍 LOCATION: Rua das Flores 32, 4050-262 Porto
📅 RESERVATIONS: Highly recommended
Best restaurants in Porto for a romantic meal
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a date night, or simply looking for a memorable meal, Porto has plenty of romantic restaurants to choose from.
As someone who lives in Porto, I’ve found myself searching for the perfect restaurant for birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations, and other special occasions more times than I can count. Over the years, these are the places I keep coming back to when I want great food, a special atmosphere, and a memorable dining experience.
These are some of my favorite restaurants in Porto for a romantic dinner.
» Flow (€€€)
Flow has been one of Porto’s most popular restaurants for years, and after visiting more than once, I can confidently say it’s one of the best restaurants in the city.
Located in the heart of Porto, it consistently delivers excellent food, attentive service, and a dining experience that feels special without being overly formal.
One of the things I love most about Flow is its beautiful interior terrace. Tucked away from the busy streets outside, it creates a peaceful and intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for a date night or special occasion.
Combined with the elegant setting and consistently high-quality dishes, it’s a restaurant I find myself recommending again and again.
📍 LOCATION: Rua da Conceição 63, 4050-215 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Seabass with asparagus risotto
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Barrica (€€€)
If you’re looking for a restaurant that feels a little different from the usual dining experience, Barrica is a fantastic choice. Rather than ordering from a traditional menu, you’ll be served a surprise tasting menu, which makes the entire meal feel much more special and memorable.
One detail I particularly appreciated was the attention to the customer experience from the very beginning. Before my visit, the restaurant called to ask whether I had any allergies, dietary restrictions, or ingredients I didn’t enjoy, allowing the chefs to tailor the experience accordingly.
The menu is offered at a fixed price, with an optional wine pairing available for those who enjoy wine.
Since I don’t drink wine, I opted for the cocktail pairing instead, and it was excellent.
Part of the fun was not knowing what would arrive next, and every dish felt thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented.
Between the attentive service, the surprise element, the quality of the food, and the intimate atmosphere, it quickly became one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve had in Porto.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de São Miguel 25, 4050-560 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: The surprise tasting menu
📅 RESERVATIONS: Essential
» Intrigo (€€)
If you want to combine a romantic dinner with one of the best views in Porto, Intrigo should be high on your list. Located along the Douro River, its terrace offers a beautiful setting, especially around sunset.
While the food is good, it’s really the atmosphere and river views that make this place special. Arrive early if possible, as the outdoor tables are by far the most sought-after.
If you’re looking for more places with stunning views, check out my guide to the best rooftop bars and terraces in Porto.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de Tomás Gonzaga 90, 4050-605 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Dinner on the terrace at sunset
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Barôco (€€€)
Part of the same restaurant group behind Flow, Barôco offers a slightly different experience. While great food remains a central part of the concept, the atmosphere leans more towards a stylish cocktail bar, making it a fantastic choice for a date night that starts with drinks and turns into dinner.
The cocktails are undoubtedly one of the highlights and shouldn’t be missed. That said, I was pleasantly surprised by how good the food was. The dishes are creative and made from high-quality ingredients and are beautifully presented.
📍 LOCATION: Rua Particular Meneses Russel Armazém 30, 4150-568 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Cocktails
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» MISTU (€€€)
Mistu is one of those restaurants that feels made for special occasions. With its low lighting, elegant décor, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the kind of place that immediately sets the mood for a romantic dinner.
I actually celebrated a birthday here and had a wonderful experience. The cocktails were excellent, the food was beautifully presented and full of flavor, and the service helped make the evening feel extra special.
📍 LOCATION: Rua do Comércio do Porto 161, 4050-430 Porto
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
Best restaurants in Porto for Italian food
Italian cuisine has always been one of my favorites, so over the years I’ve tried quite a few Italian restaurants in Porto. From Neapolitan pizza and fresh pasta to creamy risottos and focaccias, there are plenty of great options across the city.
These are the Italian restaurants I find myself recommending most often.
» Muti (€€)
If you’re craving authentic Neapolitan pizza, Muti is one of the best places in Porto. The restaurant serves traditional pizzas made with high-quality ingredients and is even certified by the Italian association that recognizes authentic Neapolitan pizza.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and I especially love the interior courtyard, which makes it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner. The menu is focused without being overwhelming, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine.
📍 LOCATION: Rua da Picaria 55, 4050-477 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Neapolitan pizzas
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Bis Pasta & Risotto (€€)
Bis Pasta & Risotto is a restaurant I’ve visited several times over the years, with different groups of friends and while trying different seasonal menus. One thing has remained consistent: I’ve always had a great experience.
As the name suggests, pasta and risotto are the stars of the menu, and portions are incredibly generous.
The menu has changed several times, which keeps things interesting and gives me an excuse to keep coming back. If you’re looking for comforting Italian food with excellent value and consistently good quality, this is one of my favorite options in Porto.
📍 LOCATION: Praça da República 48, 4050-496 Porto
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Generosa (€)
If you’re looking for great pizza in Porto, Generosa is a place that deserves a spot on your list. The restaurant itself is tiny, with only a few outdoor tables available, so it’s often difficult to find a seat. For that reason, I actually think it’s one of the best places in Porto to grab a pizza for takeaway and enjoy it elsewhere.
The pizzas are easily among the best I’ve had in the city, but don’t stop there. Everything coming out of the bakery is worth trying, from the slow-fermentation bread to the cookies and cinnamon rolls. Honestly, I’ve yet to try something from Generosa that I didn’t enjoy.
📍 LOCATION: R. de Miguel Bombarda 66, 4050-377 Porto (the main one but they have other spot in town)
📅 RESERVATIONS: Not accepted (best for takeaway)
» Federica (€€€)
Federica proves that you don’t need an extensive menu to serve excellent food. The menu is intentionally small and simple, focusing instead on quality ingredients and well-executed Italian classics.
The restaurant has two locations in Porto, but my favorite is the one near Jardim Marques de Oliveira. It’s a charming space that feels more intimate and relaxed, making it ideal for a casual dinner.
📍 LOCATION: Rua do Morgado de Mateus 49, 4000-301 Porto (also in Ribeira)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Pesto pasta
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended (very small restaurant)
» Trala (€€)
If fresh pasta is your thing, Tra La deserves a spot on your list. The restaurant specializes in handmade pasta dishes prepared with simple ingredients and plenty of attention to detail.
There are two locations in the city, including one at Mercado do Bom Sucesso. While that option is convenient, I personally prefer the location near the Douro River, which has a much more pleasant atmosphere and makes for a more enjoyable dining experience overall.
📍 LOCATION: Rua do Ouro 382, 4150-553 Porto (also at Mercado do Bom Sucesso)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Fresh handmade pasta
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Vícios à Mesa – Maus Hábitos (€€)
Located inside the iconic Maus Hábitos cultural space, Vícios de Mesa offers a slightly different Italian experience from the rest of the restaurants on this list. The atmosphere is incredibly laid-back and creative, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed dinner.
The pizzas feature unusual topping combinations and plenty of personality, while the cocktails are also worth trying. Between the food, drinks, and unique setting, it’s one of the most enjoyable places in Porto for a casual night out with friends.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de Passos Manuel 178 4º Piso, 4000-382 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Creative pizzas and cocktails
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Reitoria (€€)
The restaurant has become particularly famous for its focaccias, and for good reason. They’re some of the best I’ve had in Porto and the main reason I keep coming back.
Over the years, Reitoria has expanded beyond its original concept and also features a more refined dining space upstairs.
However, if you’re asking me what makes this place special, it’s still the focaccias. Simple, packed with flavor, and perfect whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a relaxed meal.
📍 LOCATION: Rua de Sá de Noronha 33, 4050-159 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Focaccia
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended (very small place)
Best restaurants in Porto for Asian food
I’ll start with a small disclaimer: I’m not the biggest sushi fan, so this section focuses more on other Asian cuisines that I genuinely enjoy and keep coming back to.
From Chinese and Nepalese food to Thai and Indian cuisine, these are some of my favorite Asian restaurants in Porto.
» O Chinês da Ponte (€)
Located right next to the Luís I Bridge, O Chinês da Ponte is one of Porto’s most iconic Chinese restaurants. The food is simple, authentic, and consistently good, which explains why so many locals continue to recommend it.
📍 LOCATION: Av. Vimara Peres 38, 4000-544 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Beijing duck
» Jimbu (€€)
If you’ve never tried Nepalese food before, Jimbu is a great place to start. The menu offers a variety of traditional Nepalese dishes, all packed with flavor and prepared with fresh ingredients.
My highlight was definitely the momos, traditional Nepalese dumplings that quickly became one of my favorite dishes on the menu. It’s a cozy restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and one I’d happily return to.
📍 LOCATION: Praça D. Filipa de Lencastre 90, 4050-260 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Momos
» Thamel (€€)
Thamel has long been one of my favorite Asian restaurants in Porto. There is plenty of variety on the menu but I love the fried rice with prawns or chicken. Plus, the cocktails are also great!
It’s the kind of place that works equally well for a casual dinner with friends or a relaxed evening out, and I’ve never left disappointed.
📍 LOCATION: Rua da Picaria 25, 4000-407 Porto (also available in Matosinhos)
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Momos, Fried rice, Pad thai
» Thailander (€€)
I have to admit I’ve never actually eaten at the restaurant itself, but I’ve ordered from Thailander several times over the years. And if there’s one thing I keep going back for, it’s the Pad Thai.
In fact, it’s probably my favorite Pad Thai in Porto. The restaurant itself is quite small and fairly simple, so I wouldn’t choose it for the atmosphere.
Instead, this is the kind of place that’s all about the food. The flavors are authentic, the ingredients are fresh, and every order I’ve had has been consistently good.
📍 LOCATION: Rua Das Oliveiras 45, 4050-449 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Pad Thai
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended (very small restaurant)
» Turmeric (€€)
If you’re craving Indian food, Turmeric is a restaurant I highly recommend. The food is consistently excellent, portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable compared to many other restaurants in the city.
What really stands out, though, is the staff. Everyone is incredibly welcoming and attentive, creating an experience that always makes me want to come back.
📍 LOCATION: Rua Formosa 429, 4000-253 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Butter chicken and garlic naan
📅 RESERVATIONS: Recommended
» Boa-Bao (€€€)
Boa-Bao is probably one of the most visually impressive Asian restaurants in Porto. The restaurant’s indoor terrace creates a unique atmosphere, making it feel more like a destination than just a place to eat.
While it’s slightly more expensive than some of the other Asian restaurants on this list, the food is consistently good and the cocktails are excellent. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and a fun night out, Boa-Bao is a great choice.
📍 LOCATION: Rua da Picaria 61 65, 4050-477 Porto
🍽️ DON’T MISS: Asian sharing dishes and cocktails
📅 RESERVATIONS: Highly recommended
Final thoughts
I hope this guide helps you discover some of the best restaurants in Porto and makes it a little easier to decide where to eat in Porto during your visit.
As someone who was born and raised in Porto and still lives here today, these are the restaurants I genuinely recommend to friends and family and the places I believe deserve a spot on any list of Porto’s best restaurants. There’s truly something for every mood and occasion.
If you’re planning a trip to Porto, don’t stop at the restaurants. Be sure to check out my other local guides, including my Porto itinerary, my guide to the best cafés in Porto, and my roundup of the best rooftop bars and terraces in Porto.
Have you tried any of these restaurants? Or do you have another favorite Porto restaurant that deserves a spot on this list? Let me know in the comments below. I’m always looking for new places to add to my ever-growing Porto food list. 🤤
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Thank you for writing out such wonderful options and categorizing so many different restaurants! I look forward to checking out some of these places 🙂
Thank you so much for your feedback! Are you visiting Porto anytime soon? 😉 Mariana