3 restaurants worth a visit in Porto and the Douro Valley.
Mirroring the abundant decorative tiles found in the city, the inside of the rock-themed restaurant takes a softer, artistic turn at this new location. All the rock influence is still there, but so too embossed ceilings, tufted banquette seating and a muted grey colour scheme. Exceptional, ultra-friendly service is coupled with generous portions. Order tasty bites like the vegetarian-friendly southwest spring rolls stuffed with spinach, black beans, corn, jalapeños, diced tomato and mixed cheese served with mouth watering guacamole-chipotle ranch dressing. For even more heat, you can’t beat the atomic burger topped with spicy fried onions, fried jalapeños, pepperjack cheese with arugula, vine-ripened tomato and sriracha mayo. End your meal with a shareable brownie.
Vale de Abraão Restaurant At Six Senses Douro
Here, a vegetarian tasting menu including a creamy mushroom risotto and delicately caramelized onions showcases seasonal produce while the wine list features the best from the Douro region including the silky and voluptuous Quinta Da Touriga Douro Chã.
Tucked away on Rua Mouzinho da Silveira, the restaurant from one of Portugal’s most acclaimed chefs feels like a communal gathering spot, complete with a series of cutting boards, plates and small antiques hanging on the walls. Do not be fooled by the relaxed vibe, the restaurant takes it food and drinks are seriously. Bartender Joao artfully creates cocktails with precision strokes that marry well with the marvelous seafood that Portugal offers: marinated scallops with avocado cream and Alentejo bread crumbs; rich sautéed poultry livers with onion jam and Port; cod nuggets with garlic and chive mayonnaise; grilled giant red shrimp with Thai sauce and jasmine rice; and roasted octopus with potato mash, and cottage cheese. Oh, and when dessert is described as ‘life changing’, with flavours of hazelnut and chocolate, you don’t argue.
This original food article first appeared in the Spring 2018 issue of City Style and Living Magazine
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