Three Food and Drink Places in Porto, Portugal
Walkable Experiences along the Riverfront.
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Dear Readers,
We enjoy playing “tourist” in our adopted country of Portugal! We recently took a road trip to Porto to enjoy some food and wine experiences – all within reasonable walking distance along the riverfront. Here are the details:
Cockburn’s Port Lodge – A Journey Through Time and Flavor.
Paul and I enjoy a glass of port now and then, but we had never visited a port house or done a port tasting and guided tour in Portugal. We decided it was time to remedy that. If you’re a wine enthusiast (or even if you’re not), Cockburn’s Port Lodge is a must-visit.
Established in 1815, this historic port house (pronounced “co-burn”) is home to one of the largest cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, where thousands of barrels of aging port line the walls.
A guided tour here (reservations required) is more than just a tasting—it’s an immersive dive into the craftsmanship behind port wine. Visitors can learn about the traditional foot-treading method, explore the cooperage where barrels are still handmade and repaired, and, of course, sample a range of exceptional ports along with cheeses, cured meats and chocolate pairings.
If you’re comfortable walking, you can reach Cockburn’s on foot, but it is an uphill climb from the riverfront on the Vila Nova de Gaia side. Public buses pick up and drop off at the corner of the building and you can always take a taxi or an Uber if you don’t want to walk.
Visits including a tasting last approximately 1.5 hours. You can make reservations in advance online. Rua Serpa Pinto 346, 4400-307 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal.
More information: Cockburn’s Port Lodge.
Wine Quay Bar – Sunset, Wine, and Stunning Views.
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine while watching the sun set over the Douro River, Wine Quay Bar is the place to be and one of our favorite spots in Porto.
Located along the Ribeira district’s waterfront, this intimate bar specializes in Portuguese wines and delicious petiscos (small bites). With a carefully curated wine list featuring local producers, it’s an excellent place to discover Portugal’s diverse wine regions.
Although they have a small area for indoor seating (some tables face the river), the best part for Paul and I is the outdoor seating along the riverfront, offering some of the most picturesque scenes in Porto. Try to grab a seat just before sunset – the view is stunning!
Please note that they only accept cash or a Portuguese bank debit card. No credit cards accepted. Closed on Sunday. No reservations accepted.
Rua, Cais da Estiva 111, 4050-080 Porto, Portugal. Open Monday to Thursday from 15h (3:00 pm) to 22h (10:00 pm) and Friday to Saturday from 16h (4:00 pm) to 23h (11:00 pm). More information: Wine Quay Bar.
Mescla Restaurant – Where Tradition Meets Innovation.
Tucked away along a string of buildings, not far from Wine Quay Bar, a newer establishment, Mescla Restaurant is a hidden gem that perfectly blends Portuguese tradition with global influences. Paul and I found this restaurant by accident on our way to Wine Quay Bar and decided to give it a try for dinner – we were not disappointed!
The name "Mescla" means "mix," and that’s exactly what this restaurant does—combining flavors, techniques, and inspirations to create something fresh and exciting. The menu is ever-changing, highlighting seasonal ingredients and modern twists on classic dishes.
It looks like a small place from the outside, but it’s deceiving. Inside there are three floors, all with inviting tables and tasteful décor. Expect a cozy atmosphere, friendly and attentive service, and an array of creative dishes beautifully presented, that will delight food lovers looking for something beyond the usual Porto fare.
R. da Alfândega 15, 4050-029 Porto, Portugal. Open daily 16h (4:00) pm to 24h (12:00 pm) except on Wednesdays when the restaurant is closed.
Reservations recommended especially in high season. We reserved online via their website.
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Until next time…
Obrigada!
Carol.
Thank you. We are in Porto often and I usually feel that many places along the river are not the best places to dine. Thank you for providing recommendations for some places to try.
just love following you guys around portugal. shoulda coulda woulda...but not complaining about our choice of santa fe - except when i turn on the tv! we spent alot of time exploring porto and really liked the port side of the river best - i think because you can look back at the city and not be in the chaos of it. the hills were challenging! and we do have a new appreciation of port. best to you both! bon