Don't Leave Porto Without Eating at These 15 Incredible Restaurants!

Your Porto Food Bucket List: 15 Restaurants You Absolutely Can't Miss

Porto's food scene is as diverse and captivating as the city itself. Whether you're craving fresh seafood with ocean views, a cozy spot to savor traditional Portuguese flavors, or innovative cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds, Porto has a restaurant to fulfill your every culinary desire.  Consider this your essential guide to eating your way through Porto –  don't even think about skipping these gastronomic gems!

1. Casa Nanda: For an authentic taste of Porto, head straight to Casa Nanda. This no-frills, family-run tasca is a local institution. Expect hearty portions of traditional Portuguese dishes like Tripas à Moda do Porto (tripe Porto style) and Francesinha (the iconic Porto sandwich), all served with warmth and genuine hospitality. Perfect for a truly local and budget-friendly experience. Why You Can't Miss It: Ultimate local experience, authentic Portuguese dishes, incredibly affordable, buzzing atmosphere.
2. Pedro Lemos Restaurante: Step into the world of fine dining at Pedro Lemos, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined and modern Portuguese cuisine. Experience innovative dishes that showcase the best of regional ingredients, presented with artistry and impeccable service. Ideal for a special occasion or a truly indulgent meal. Why You Can't Miss It: Michelin-starred experience, innovative Portuguese cuisine, elegant ambiance, perfect for a splurge.
3. Restaurante LSD Largo de São Domingos: Don't let the name fool you (it stands for Largo de São Domingos!), this spot is all about delicious, contemporary Portuguese tapas. Located in a vibrant area, LSD offers a lively atmosphere and creative small plates perfect for sharing with friends while soaking in the Porto vibe. Why You Can't Miss It: Trendy tapas spot, creative Portuguese small plates, great for sharing, lively and fun atmosphere.
4. O Gaveto: Seafood lovers, rejoice! O Gaveto is a Porto institution renowned for its incredibly fresh and high-quality seafood. Choose your crustaceans directly from the tank and indulge in simply prepared, perfectly cooked seafood dishes that let the ingredients shine. Why You Can't Miss It: Unbeatable fresh seafood, choose your own shellfish, classic preparation, perfect for seafood fanatics.
5. Cantinho do Avillez: From renowned Portuguese chef José Avillez, Cantinho do Avillez offers a more casual yet still sophisticated dining experience. Expect modern interpretations of Portuguese classics, beautifully presented and full of flavor. A great option for a slightly more upscale yet relaxed meal. Why You Can't Miss It: Chef-driven cuisine, modern Portuguese dishes, stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, excellent value for quality.
6. Tapabento: Always buzzing and often with a queue, Tapabento is popular for a reason. This cozy restaurant serves up delicious, modern European cuisine with Portuguese influences. Known for its friendly service and creative menu that changes regularly. Why You Can't Miss It: Consistently excellent food, creative menu, cozy and intimate atmosphere, popular with locals and tourists alike.
7. Cafe Santiago: No trip to Porto is complete without trying a Francesinha, and Cafe Santiago is arguably the place to do it. This casual cafe is famous for its Francesinha sandwiches - be prepared for a hearty and indulgent experience! Why You Can't Miss It: Home of the iconic Francesinha sandwich, a Porto must-try, casual and affordable.
8. Jimão Tapas e Vinhos: Nestled in the Ribeira district, Jimão offers a charming setting and delicious Portuguese tapas and wines. Enjoy a glass of Vinho Verde with flavorful small plates while people-watching in the heart of Porto's historic center. Why You Can't Miss It: Perfect Ribeira location, delicious tapas and wine selection, charming and atmospheric, ideal for a relaxed evening.
9. Flow Restaurant & Bar: For a trendy and stylish dining experience, head to Flow. This restaurant boasts a beautiful interior, a sophisticated menu with international influences, and a great cocktail bar. Perfect for a chic night out. Why You Can't Miss It: Stylish and modern ambiance, international cuisine with a Portuguese twist, excellent cocktails, great for a special night out.
10. Intrigo Restaurant: Another Michelin-recommended gem, Intrigo offers a more intimate and refined dining experience. Focusing on seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations, Intrigo is perfect for foodies seeking a memorable culinary journey. Why You Can't Miss It: Michelin recommended, intimate and refined dining, seasonal and creative menu, for adventurous palates.
11. Muu Steakhouse: Carnivores will be in heaven at Muu Steakhouse. This restaurant is dedicated to serving high-quality, perfectly cooked steaks in a modern and stylish setting. If you're craving meat, this is your Porto destination. Why You Can't Miss It: Top-notch steaks, modern steakhouse ambiance, perfect for meat lovers, indulgent and satisfying.
12. Gazela Hot Dogs: For a quick, cheap, and utterly delicious Porto street food experience, grab a Cachorrinho (hot dog) at Gazela. This iconic spot serves up these unique and incredibly tasty hot dogs that are a local favorite. Why You Can't Miss It: Iconic Porto street food, incredibly tasty Cachorrinhos (hot dogs), fast and affordable, a true local experience.
13. Vinhas D' Alho: Located in Vila Nova de Gaia (across the bridge from Porto), Vinhas D' Alho offers stunning views of Porto along with delicious traditional Portuguese food. Enjoy your meal with a backdrop of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and the Ribeira district. Why You Can't Miss It: Amazing Porto views, traditional Portuguese cuisine, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, perfect for lunch or dinner with a panorama.
14. Enoteca 17.56: More than just a restaurant, Enoteca 17.56 is a wine bar and restaurant in the WOW (World of Wine) complex. Enjoy excellent Portuguese wines paired with delicious food in a sophisticated setting. Why You Can't Miss It: Part of the WOW complex, extensive Portuguese wine list, sophisticated atmosphere, great for wine lovers.
15. Abadia do Porto: For classic, unpretentious Portuguese food in a traditional setting, Abadia do Porto is a solid choice. Expect generous portions of comforting dishes like roasted meats and seafood rice, served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Why You Can't Miss It: Classic Portuguese cuisine, generous portions, traditional atmosphere, comforting and satisfying.