Porto is a foodie’s paradise, with an abundance of restaurants serving up delicious cuisine. From traditional Portuguese dishes to international fare, there’s something for everyone. To help you make the most of your culinary adventures, we’ve put together a guide to our top picks for the best restaurants in Porto. Some may argue that these are arguably not the best restaurants in Porto, these just happen to be our current favorites — bringing a beautiful mix of atmosphere, presentation, flavor, price, and a local touch. Some of these places we found from recommendations, others just by happy coincidence.
For more Porto recommendations, also be sure to check out our guides to Our 12 Favorite Stores in Porto and the top 10 Best Porto Cafés!
1. Tokkotai
Address: R. do Comércio do Porto 144, 4050-209 Porto, Portugal
Opening Hours: 7:30 - 12am (2am on weekends)
Immerse yourself in a unique culinary experience at Tokkotai, a stylish restaurant in Porto that presents traditional Japanese cuisine with a contemporary twist. Indulge in an array of dishes, including sushi rolls, teriyaki chicken, and beef tataki, all prepared to perfection. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the spicy tuna cannoli, an exquisitely presented dish with a delightful crunch and fresh flavors. The tartars are also highly recommended. Complementing their culinary expertise, Tokkotai offers an impressive selection of house cocktails that perfectly complement the food. To secure a table, we advise making online reservations in advance.
2. Reitoria
Address: R. de Sá de Noronha 33, 4050-159 Porto, Portugal
Opening Hours: 12:30pm - 10:30pm (11:30 on weekends)
If you're seeking an inviting dining spot in Porto, look no further than Reitoria. Nestled within a historic building, this establishment boasts a tapas bar on the lower level and a steakhouse on the upper floor. The menu at Reitoria is diverse and mouthwatering, but we can't help but recommend their padrón peppers, fresh focaccias, tartar, and 'Ovos Rotos.' Wine enthusiasts will be delighted by the impressive wine selection, which includes our personal favorites, Quinta de Silvares and Giroflé Red. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this hidden gem of a restaurant in Porto.
Please note that reservations for Reitoria are only available for the steakhouse on the upper floor. The tapas bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Bacalhoeiro
Address: Av. de Diogo Leite 74, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Opening Hours: 12pm - 11pm
For aficionados of seafood, a visit to Bacalhoeiro is an absolute must. Located on the Vila Nova de Gaia side of Porto, this restaurant specializes in salt cod dishes, a quintessential component of Portuguese cuisine. The menu offers a variety of preparations, from fried to grilled, along with other seafood delicacies like octopus and shrimp. The stunning waterfront location provides an unbeatable backdrop, especially during sunset. To fully relish the authentic flavors of Portuguese cuisine and indulge in local fish specialties, we recommend making an early dinner reservation to capture the breathtaking sunset. Ensure your spot by booking online in advance.
4. Taberna dos Mercadores
Address: R. dos Mercadores 36, Porto, Portugal
Opening Hours: 12:30pm - 10:30pm
Indulge in the flavors of traditional Portuguese cuisine at Taberna dos Mercadores, a hidden gem nestled within Porto's historic district. This restaurant takes pride in sourcing fresh, locally produced ingredients, resulting in delectable and flavorful dishes. Must-try items include the pork cheeks with chestnut puree, codfish fritters and the octopus with sweet potato puree. Taberna dos Mercadores is a charming boutique restaurant tucked away on one of the winding streets that lead to the waterfront. Due to its popularity, we highly recommend making a reservation several weeks in advance or arriving promptly at opening time for dinner. The talented chef behind Tasquinha de Mercadores is well-known in Porto and operates several other remarkable restaurants in the area. Don't miss out on this authentic dining experience. Book your table online today.
5. Tapabento
Address: R. da Madeira 209 221, 4000-331 Porto, Portugal
Opening Hours: 12–3 pm, 7–10:30 pm
For a tantalizing tapas experience, head to Tapabento. This trendy restaurant offers an array of small plates featuring both traditional Portuguese dishes and international cuisine. While the menu changes regularly, you can expect to find delectable options such as octopus carpaccio, beef tartare, and mushroom risotto. The restaurant also boasts an excellent selection of wines. To ensure a seamless dining experience in Porto, particularly during peak seasons, we highly recommend booking your table online in advance. Planning ahead and securing reservations will help you avoid disappointment.
Conclusion
Porto is renowned for its culinary delights, offering an abundance of exceptional restaurants to choose from. Whether you have a hankering for seafood, Japanese cuisine, or traditional Portuguese dishes, the city caters to all tastes. To make the most of your culinary adventure, remember to plan ahead and make reservations at your desired restaurants. Enjoy the diverse flavors and gastronomic wonders that await you in Porto.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Porto for a culinary adventure?
The optimal time to embark on a culinary adventure in Porto is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the city is bustling with activity.
Do restaurants in Porto typically accept credit cards?
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options at the restaurants in Porto?
Are tips expected at restaurants in Porto?
Are there any food tours available in Porto?