Over the years, Portuguese gastronomy has gained notoriety and recognition around the world. The diversity of flavors in our cuisine is increasingly a factor that attracts foreigners to visit and invest in our country.
In this article, we invite you to take a journey through the Portuguese gastronomic universe. We talk about wines and typical dishes that distinguish our cuisine and present some premium chefs and restaurants that help take our culture beyond borders.
Wine, one of the pillars of Portuguese gastronomy
- Red wine
Portuguese wine is , without a doubt, one of our greatest calling cards. For red wine lovers, wines from the demarcated regions of Douro, Alentejo and Dão are some of the most popular. Many of them are present in important international competitions.
Some examples of premium quality Portuguese red wines are:
- Pêra-Manca 2015;
- Quinta do Crasto Touriga Franca 2018;
- Grande Rocim 2017.
- White wine
White wine also has a very strong presence in Portuguese gastronomy. Many consider this type of wine to be the perfect accompaniment to seafood, white meat or good fish.
These are some of the best Portuguese white wines :
- Conde Vimioso Reserve 2018;
- Taboadella Reserva Encruzado White 2022;
- Vinha do Contador Grande Juri Nobre White 2015.
- Port wine
Globally recognized as one of the most appreciated fortified wines in the world, Port wine comes in many styles. Available in Rosé, White, Tawny and Ruby varieties, this wine is appreciated by both Portuguese and foreigners.
Here are three Port wines that live up to their popularity:
- Vasques de Carvalho 20 Years Porto Branco;
- Kopke 30 Years Old Tawny;
- Taylor’s LBV Porto 2017 Ruby.
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3 Typical delicacies of Portuguese gastronomy
- Bacalhau à Brás
Bacalhau à Brás is a traditional Portuguese dish that conquers the taste buds of anyone who tastes it. This delicacy of Portuguese gastronomy results from a delicious and unique combination of simple ingredients: olive oil, shredded cod, straw potatoes, onion, olives, parsley and eggs.
The mix of flavors results in a rich and comforting dish, with a good variety of colors and textures. We list some restaurants where this dish is cooked in a traditional and authentic way:
- Solar do Bacalhau Restaurant, in Lisbon;
- Culto ao Bacalhau Restaurant, in Porto;
- Batista do Bacalhau Restaurant, in Aveiro.
- Francesinha
This is, increasingly, one of the iconic specialties of Portuguese gastronomy that captivates those who visit us. Originating in the city of Porto, Francesinha consists of a rich sandwich, covered in cheese and sauce, to be eaten with a knife and fork.
Different grilled meats such as steak, sausage and sausage are layered between two slices of bread. This base is then coated in melted cheese and drizzled with a special sauce with a unique flavor. Generally, Francesinha is served with French fries.
Three of the Portuguese restaurants typically known for their Francesinhas are:
- Brasão Coliseu Brewery, in Porto;
- Capa Negra Restaurant, in Porto;
- Belgian Tavern, in Braga.
- Pastel de Nata
Pastel de Nata is already considered a true symbol of Portuguese gastronomy in terms of sweets. Originally from Portugal, this pastry is characterized by a light and crispy puff pastry with a flavored egg cream.
Its flavor and combination of textures place Pastel de Nata among the best cakes in the world. These are some places in Portugal where you can enjoy an authentic Pastel de Nata, plain or sprinkled with cinnamon:
- Pastéis de Belém, in Lisbon;
- Manteigaria, in Lisbon and Porto;
- Fábrica da Nata, in Lisbon, Sintra and Porto.
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Best luxury restaurants in Portugal
For those looking for a unique experience in tasting the best dishes and wines that characterize Portuguese gastronomy , these are some of the unmissable places to visit in our country.
In the Porto region
- The Yeatman Restaurant
Michelin stars: 2;
A bright restaurant, with a stunning view and premium service ;
Chef: Ricardo Costa focuses on superior quality products and modern cooking techniques.
- Vila Foz Restaurant
Michelin Stars: Porto’s most recent Michelin star;
An elegant space, located in Foz, in a 19th century mansion;
Chef: Arnaldo Azevedo brings the authenticity and freshness of the sea to his fish and seafood dishes.
- Casa de Chá da Boa Nova Restaurant
Michelin stars: 2;
This restaurant is a project by the most awarded Portuguese architect: Siza Vieira. It is on the seafront, framed by a rocky view and the enveloping sound of the waves;
Chef: Rui Paula promises to appeal to the senses in each dish, enhancing its ingredients.
In the Lisbon region
- Alma Restaurant
Michelin stars: 2;
A restaurant that focuses on reinventing typically Portuguese dishes, with a refined touch;
Chef: Henrique Sá Pessoa guarantees a unique tasting experience, where everything is prepared in detail.
- Belcanto Restaurant
Michelin stars: 2;
In this restaurant, top quality products and haute cuisine techniques are combined to restore traditional dishes;
Chef: José Avillez invites you on a gastronomic journey through the flavors of Portuguese cuisine.
Our country has become one of the most acclaimed gastronomic destinations in the world. Portuguese restaurants bring tradition and innovation to the table, surprising with the flavor, freshness and authenticity of the ingredients, but also with the history that surrounds each dish.
With all the richness of Portuguese gastronomy, climate and quality of life, Portugal is a country that captivates those looking for good investments and unique experiences. Visit our blog to learn more about our country and everything it has to offer.
