Porto: A Culinary and Wine Guide

1. Antiqvvm: Where Every Bite Tells a Story

Perched on the edge of the Douro River, Antiqvvm is more than a restaurant. It’s a journey. From the moment you step inside, the warmth of the space envelops you. You’re not just dining; you’re savoring the essence of Portugal, plated with artistry. The dishes tell the stories of land and sea — each bite transports you to rolling hills and ancient vineyards. The pigeon is so tender, it practically melts on your tongue, and the vegetarian menu? It’s not an afterthought — it’s a celebration of the region’s best produce. Chef Vítor Matos doesn’t just cook; he weaves a narrative of flavor. The view over the city, with the river glittering below, seals the experience — because in Porto, the setting is just as much a part of the meal as what’s on your plate.

2. Enoteca 17.56: Wine That Breathes with You

There’s a certain reverence in Porto when it comes to wine — it’s part of the city’s DNA. At Enoteca 17.56, you don’t just taste wine; you breathe it in. Situated in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, right on the riverbank, this place feels like an extension of the earth itself. It’s where the art of wine-making is honored, and every glass of port is an invitation to understand the story behind it. As you sip, you can’t help but feel connected to the land — the vineyards that stretch across Portugal’s rolling hills, the craftsmanship passed down through generations. Pair that with a dish of octopus à lagareiro, and you’re not just dining — you’re immersing yourself in Porto’s history.

3. Graham’s Lodge: A Legacy Poured Into Every Glass

Graham’s Lodge is where Porto’s legacy of port wine comes alive. The family-owned cellars, tucked away along the Douro River, are a treasure trove of history. Here, you’re invited not just to taste wine, but to step into the world where it’s made. The dark wooden barrels that line the walls hold decades of tradition, each bottle a testament to the patience and passion of the Graham family. The tasting is intimate, an experience where you learn to appreciate the subtlety of a good port — the layers of complexity, the sweet and savory notes, the moment when time slows down.

4. The Yeatman: Luxury with a View

At The Yeatman, luxury doesn’t just live in the details — it surrounds you. Situated on the hilltop, overlooking Porto’s vibrant skyline, this hotel is a place where elegance meets nature. But it’s not just about the view — though it’s hard to ignore. The real magic happens at The Yeatman’s Michelin-starred restaurant, where Chef Ricardo Costa elevates Portuguese ingredients to art. The food is sophisticated yet deeply connected to the land. The Douro Valley’s riverbanks, visible from your seat, only deepen the sense of place. With an extensive wine list that boasts some of the finest bottles in Portugal, you’ll understand why this is the place to linger long after your meal ends.

5. Serralves: Where Culture Meets Calm

Serralves is the beating cultural heart of Porto. A museum, a garden, and an Art Deco villa all in one. But it’s more than that — it’s a space where art and nature collide, creating something transcendent. The museum’s exhibitions challenge and inspire, and as you wander through the expansive grounds, the manicured gardens and quiet corners offer a rare kind of peace. It’s an invitation to slow down, to take in the beauty of the world not just in paintings but in the very air you breathe.

6. Casa de Chá da Boa Nova: Dining on the Edge of the Sea

A short drive from Porto takes you to the Casa de Chá da Boa Nova, where the line between land and sea becomes beautifully blurred. Designed by renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant is a love letter to the ocean. Chef Rui Paula’s creations highlight the bounty of the Portuguese coastline — think fresh seafood that’s been prepared with utmost care and respect. Dining here isn’t just about food; it’s about the experience of being so close to the sea that you feel its energy with every bite. The restaurant, perched on the edge of the Atlantic, is a modern-day marvel, and the crashing waves just outside the window remind you that Porto is a city where nature is never far away.

7. Essência do Vinho: A Celebration of Portugal’s Finest Wines

If you’re lucky enough to be in Porto in February, the Essência do Vinho festival is a must. This annual event is more than a wine tasting — it’s a full sensory immersion into Portugal’s rich wine culture. The Palácio da Bolsa becomes the stage for over 400 wine producers showcasing their finest bottles. Here, you can sample everything from the legendary Vintage Ports to lesser-known but equally magnificent varietals. It’s not just about sipping wine; it’s about meeting the makers, hearing their stories, and learning about the passion behind every bottle.


Porto is not just a place you visit — it’s a place you immerse yourself in. It’s where every meal, every glass of wine, and every conversation feels like part of something greater. It’s a city that’s impossible to forget, with a soul that stays with you long after you’ve left. For those who seek experiences that speak to the heart and the senses, Porto offers more than a destination — it offers a journey.