Foodie Guide Portugal

So, you have just arrived in Portugal. What do you do now? Google and mainstream social media all recommend you the same things, but you’re looking to have a more authentic and idiosyncratic experience in Portugal.

It’s out of both appreciation for the country and desire to help people have that sort of experience that we at Pearls of Portugal have assembled our Portugal Foodie Guide! In it, you can find recommendations of restaurants in all 18 Portuguese districts, plus the Madeira and Azores archipelagos. Soon, events and celebrations will be added as well, so as to make your experience in Portugal as great as possible!

The guide is updated regularly and is meant to be communal, meaning that suggestions are more than welcome, so feel free to leave them in the form below!

Select a district

Note: if want to see the recommendations for the whole country just unselect any selected district.

Restaurants

Contemporary

Cais da Villa

Cais da Villa has injected new energy into the local dining scene. The restaurant places a strong emphasis on traditional cuisine, highlighting classic dishes like the cataplana featuring grouper, squid, and shrimp. It also excels in offering excellent meat from the Trás-os-Montes region. Listed on Michelin Guide.

Mon: 12:00 – 15:00

19:00 – 22:00

Tue: Closed – 15:00

19:00 – 22:00

Wed: Closed

Thur: 12:00 – 15:00

19:00 – 22:00

Fri: 12:00 – 15:00

19:00 – 22:00

Sat: 12:00 – 15:00

19:00 – 22:00

Sun: 12:00 – 15:00

19:00 – 22:00

Regional Cuisine

Pedra Furada

Situated in a serene village that coincidentally lies along the path of the Portuguese Way of St. James, this restaurant is a favored stop for enthusiastic pilgrims, particularly in the bar area, where they relish the daily menu. Guests enter through a charming terrace, leading to a warmly rustic and carefully curated dining room, complete with a spacious fireplace, wooden ceiling, and sturdy walls adorned with a collection of culinary accolades. The regionally-inspired cuisine is unpretentious, highlighting the sincerity of flavors and the use of premium ingredients, including those sourced from its own vegetable garden. Notably, the menu showcases award-winning specialties such as the renowned Barcelos-style stuffed rooster. Listed on Michelin Guide.

Mon: 08:00 – 15:00

Tue: 08:00 – 22:00

Wed: 08:00 – 22:00

Thur: 08:00 – 22:00

Fri: 08:00 – 22:00

Sat: 08:00 – 22:00

Sun: 09:00 – 15:00

Regional Cuisine

Vindouro

Located in the historic center of the region, it offers contemporary regional cuisine with a Mediterranean base, inspired by the traditional recipes of the Douro region. The pleasures of fine dining are enveloped in an environment where the architecture reflects the richness and uniqueness of the surrounding landscape. The interior design surprises with an undulating corridor, simulating the elegant curves of the river and the sharp relief of the terraces, to the recreation of vines and olive trees, framed in a schist wall, a reference to the walls that populate the steep slopes.

Mon: 12:00 – 14:30

19:30 – 22:00

Tue: 12:00 – 14:30

19:30 – 22:00

Wed: 12:00 – 14:30

19:30 – 22:00

Thur: 12:00 – 14:30

19:30 – 22:00

Fri: 12:00 – 14:30

19:30 – 22:00

Sat: 12:00 – 15:00

19:30 – 22:30

Sun: 12:00 – 15:00

19:30 – 22:30

Market Cuisine

Semea by Euskalduna

In its transition to the banks of the Douro, this restaurant has seen enhancements on every front – expanded space, a refined culinary approach, and the newfound advantage of river views. The gastronomy presented here revolves around the grill and open fire, leveraging locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that, while unassuming, burst with flavors and exhibit a keen emphasis on presentation. Complementing these offerings is the restaurant's captivating panoramic terrace, perched on the first floor, providing a delightful setting. Bib Gourmand Distinction by Michelin Guide.

Mon: Closed

Tue: 18:30 – 00:00

Wed: 13:00 – 15:00

18:30 – 00:00

Thur: 13:00 – 15:00

18:30 – 00:00

Fri: 13:00 – 15:00

18:30 – 00:00

Sat: 13:00 – 15:00

18:30 – 00:00

Sun: Closed

Fusion

Casa Âncora

This restaurant is an ode to fusion cuisine, combining culinary influences from all over the world. Its sober décor, inspired by nature, stands out with light wood furniture and the blue hue of the sea. With panoramic views of the ocean, it offers an extensive menu of fish dishes prepared with fresh fish. Each meal is a unique gastronomic journey, where the flavors of the sea blend harmoniously and unforgettably.

Mon: 18:30 – 22:00

Tue: 18:30 – 22:00

Wed: 18:30 – 22:00

Thur: 18:30 – 22:00

Fri: 18:30 – 22:00

Sat: 18:30 – 22:00

Sun: Closed

Traditional Cuisine

Herdade dos Grous

Indulge in authentic Portuguese cuisine meticulously crafted from farm-fresh ingredients. This establishment places a strong emphasis on organic agriculture, with the estate not only cultivating its own produce but also boasting a winery for wine production and the breeding of Alentejo cattle, Merino lambs, and Iberian pigs. Listed on Michelin Guide.

Mon: 12:30 – 15:00

18:30 – 21:30

Tue: 12:30 – 15:00

18:30 – 21:30

Wed: 12:30 – 15:00

18:30 – 21:30

Thur: 12:30 – 15:00

18:30 – 21:30

Fri: 12:30 – 15:00

18:30 – 21:30

Sat: 12:30 – 15:00

18:30 – 21:30

Sun: 12:30 – 15:00

18:30 – 21:30

Cultural Celebration

Festas de São Gonçalinho

"Festas de São Gonçalinho" is a vibrant and traditional festival celebrated in the coastal city of Aveiro, Portugal, dedicated to Saint Gonçalinho. Taking place annually, typically in late January, this lively event attracts locals and visitors alike to partake in a unique blend of religious devotion and exuberant festivities. The festival's focal point is the traditional "Cavacas," a special pastry associated with the saint. Pilgrims and revelers eagerly anticipate the iconic moment when these sweet treats are thrown from the chapel of São Gonçalinho to the crowd below. The enthusiastic crowd gathers in the square, ready to catch the falling Cavacas in the hopes of securing good luck for the year ahead. Beyond the pastry-throwing spectacle, "Festas de São Gonçalinho" encompasses a rich program of events, including religious processions, cultural performances, music, and traditional dance. The festival's joyful atmosphere extends throughout the city, with locals engaging in various activities, from participating in the religious ceremonies to enjoying the lively street entertainment. Festas de São Gonçalinho stands as a delightful expression of Aveiro's cultural identity, bringing together the community to celebrate their religious heritage with a touch of playful festivity.

Mon: Closed

Tue: Closed

Wed: Closed

Thur: Closed

Fri: Closed

Sat: Closed

Sun: Closed

Typically takes place annually in late January.

Cultural Festival

Sanjoaninas

The "Sanjoaninas" is a cherished annual festival in Angra do Heroísmo, a picturesque city on Terceira Island in the Azores, Portugal. This lively event is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, the city's patron saint, and serves as a vibrant celebration of both religious traditions and rich Azorean culture. The festivities commence with solemn religious ceremonies and processions to honor Saint John, showcasing the deep spiritual connection and historical significance of the islanders' faith. Colorful parades, featuring traditional attire, marching bands, and elaborately decorated floats, wind through the streets, bringing an air of joy and festivity. The festival offers a delightful blend of cultural performances, including Azorean music and folk dances, providing a captivating glimpse into the island's unique heritage. Alongside the religious and cultural elements, Sanjoaninas features a diverse range of entertainment, such as live music concerts that showcase both local and international artists, encompassing a variety of musical genres. Food stalls offer local delicacies and traditional Azorean dishes, immersing festival-goers in the island's delectable cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere culminates with spectacular fireworks displays that light up the night sky, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.

Mon: Closed

Tue: Closed

Wed: Closed

Thur: Closed

Fri: Closed

Sat: Closed

Sun: Closed

This cultural celebration lasts for several days, typically during the month of June.

Carnival and Cultural Fair

March Fair

The "Aveiro's March Fair," known as the "Feira de Março" in Portuguese, is a vibrant and traditional fair held in the charming city of Aveiro, often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal." This lively event is a fusion of carnival, amusement park, and cultural celebration, attracting locals and tourists alike. It typically takes place in the month of March, bringing a burst of color and joy to the city after the winter months. The fair boasts a diverse array of attractions, including thrilling amusement rides, games, and food stalls. Families and thrill-seekers can enjoy roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and other exciting fairground rides, making it a cherished experience for children and adults alike. In addition to the amusements, Aveiro's March Fair showcases a blend of cultural events, including live music performances, art exhibitions, and traditional food and craft markets. Visitors can immerse themselves in the regional culture by sampling local delicacies, such as "ovos moles," a sweet treat made from egg yolks, and exploring the intricate handicrafts produced by artisans in the area. The fair's lively and festive atmosphere offers a taste of Aveiro's rich heritage, and it's a delightful event category that combines a carnival atmosphere with cultural appreciation.

Mon: Closed

Tue: Closed

Wed: Closed

Thur: Closed

Fri: Closed

Sat: Closed

Sun: Closed

20230325 – 20230425

Typically takes place in the month of March, as its name suggests.

Summer Carnival

August Fair

Beja's "Feira de Agosto" or August Fair is an annual event that transforms the city into a bustling carnival of festivities. This traditional fair, held in the heart of summer, is a vibrant celebration of local culture, music, and entertainment. The fairgrounds come alive with colorful tents, amusement rides, and attractions, offering a joyful experience for families and visitors of all ages. Feira de Agosto is not just about the amusements; it also showcases the agricultural and artisanal heritage of the region. The fair typically includes exhibitions of local products, traditional crafts, and agricultural displays, providing a platform for local producers and artisans to share their talents with the community. With its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings, Feira de Agosto stands as a testament to the lively spirit and cultural richness of Beja.

Mon: Closed

Tue: Closed

Wed: Closed

Thur: Closed

Fri: Closed

Sat: Closed

Sun: Closed

As the name suggests, this fair typically occurs in August.

Religious Celebrations

Festas do Espírito Santo

The Festas do Espírito Santo, one of the most significant religious traditions in the Azores, are celebrated on each island and involve processions, feasts, and the distribution of "Sopas do Espírito Santo" (Holy Spirit Soup) to the needy.

Mon: Closed

Tue: Closed

Wed: Closed

Thur: Closed

Fri: Closed

Sat: Closed

Sun: Closed

These festivals typically take place in the spring and early summer and can vary by island.

Music and Arts

Festival dos Canais

The "Festival dos Canais" is a captivating cultural event that transforms the city of Aveiro into a vibrant canvas of artistic expression. Held annually, this festival is a celebration of contemporary arts, bringing together a diverse array of visual arts, performances, and interactive experiences. One of its distinctive features is the utilization of the city's picturesque canals and public spaces as unique stages for artistic exploration. Artists, both local and international, showcase their creativity through installations, exhibitions, and performances, creating an immersive and dynamic experience for attendees. Beyond the traditional confines of art galleries, Festival dos Canais aims to democratize art by bringing it directly to the public. The festival's program includes a wide range of artistic expressions, from live music and theatrical performances to visual arts that engage with the city's architecture and waterways. By transforming the urban landscape into a vibrant cultural playground, Festival dos Canais fosters a sense of community and connection, encouraging both locals and visitors to explore the intersections of art and public spaces in a truly unique and accessible way.

Mon: Closed

Tue: Closed

Wed: Closed

Thur: Closed

Fri: Closed

Sat: Closed

Sun: Closed

Typically takes place annually in July.

Foodie Guide Portugal

Select a district

Restaurants

Cais da Villa

Pedra Furada

Vindouro

Semea by Euskalduna

Casa Âncora

Herdade dos Grous

Festas de São Gonçalinho

Sanjoaninas

March Fair

August Fair

Festas do Espírito Santo

Festival dos Canais

Let us know your recomendations!

Don't miss out on offers or news!

Foodie Guide Portugal

Select a district

Restaurants

March Fair

August Fair

Festas do Espírito Santo

Let us know your recomendations!

How can we help you?

Schedule a meeting

Call us now

Send us a message

Please get in touch and our team will answer all your questions

Don't miss out on offers or news!