The 10 Best Restaurants In Vila Nova De Gaia Porto

A city in the Northern Region of Portugal, in the Porto District, Vila Nova de Gaia is a beacon of Portuguese culture and spirit. Located on the south side of the Douro river with the city of Porto to the north, Vila Nova is famous for its quaint and rustic lifestyle, offering an array of spectacular views, one of the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in Portugal, high-quality gastronomy and a vibrant nightlife. The famous port wine cellars of the city succeed in luring a large amount of tourists every year. We have listed ten of the best restaurants in the city.

1. Sweet Douro

Charcuterie, Restaurant, Portuguese

A traditional Portuguese restaurant close to the Douro River. Sweet Douro is located down one of Gaia’s many narrow back streets. The restaurant champions simplicity and authenticity characterized by its rustic décor. The menu includes a variety of flavorsome Portuguese specialty dishes including the local charcuterie platter and a range of tapas.

2. Taberna Da Villa

Charcuterie, Restaurant, Portuguese, Dessert

An exceptionally popular option, The Taberna da Villa specializes in providing a varied selection of contemporary Portuguese dishes. Tucked away from the town center., this restaurant provides an efficient service and offers a variety of tapas style dishes and traditional charcuterie options as well as a rich selection of desserts.

3. Bicoq

Restaurant, Portuguese, Seafood

A relatively new addition to the city’s gastronomic scene, the restaurant Bicoq serves an impeccable range of Portuguese and international favorites. The impressive menu features meat and seafood dishes, including a variety of duck-based dishes and the tender Guinea fowl. The restaurant also offers a tasty array of cocktails and juices.

4. Restaurante Mario Luso

Restaurant, Portuguese

Restaurante Mario Luso is the epitome of Portuguese charm. The restaurant specializes in cooking traditional Portuguese dishes the old fashioned way, which sets it apart from the wide selection of Portuguese restaurants lining Gaia’s streets. Mario Luso stands as a rustic reminder of Portuguese heritage through its décor and food, using premium, fresh produce to provide dishes of only the best quality.

5. Perto do Cais

Restaurant, Portuguese

The Perto do Cais is a cozy family run restaurant serving some of the best local dishes around. The restaurant enjoys immense popularity with locals thanks to its famous francesinhas, a typical dish from Porto which consists of a wet cured ham and steak sandwich covered with melted cheese and a hot thick tomato and beer sauce. With a simple rustic interior and a homely and hearty passion for good quality, authentic food, this restaurant is a must visit for tourists wanting to experience the best of local cuisine.

6. Vinum Restaurant and Wine Bar

Bar, Restaurant, Wine Bar, Portuguese, Pub Grub

One of Gaia’s most popular restaurants, the Vinum Restaurant and Wine Bar focuses on delivering high quality food in a professional manner. The restaurant features a range of fresh salads and well sourced steaks with the added bonus of having an extensive wine menu with in house expertise. This is the perfect option for visitors wanting to combine great food with a lively evening on the town.

7. Bacalhoeiro

Restaurant, Seafood, Vegetarian

Situated on the riverside, Bacalhoeiro is a popular restaurant specializing in an assortment of seafood and vegetarian dishes. The restaurant promotes an ethos of hard work whilst delivering food to a high standard with constant attention to customer satisfaction. Bacalhoeiro has an outdoor terrace that is the perfect location to sit and have a drink while you enjoy the views of the river.

8. Gastronmic Restaurant The Yeatman

Hotel Restaurant, Contemporary

A table set for dining at the Yeatman, on a terrace overlooking the city buildings of Porto

The Yeatman is a Michelin-star restaurant that serves a vast array of tapas style favorites in a contemporary and elegant environment. The restaurant offers a selection of set menus with wine pairings recommended by an in house sommelier. You’ll have a delightful and unforgettable gastronomic experience.

9. Pizzaria da Salvatore

Pizzeria, Restaurant, Portuguese, Fast Food

The Pizzaria da Salvatore is one of Gaia’s main pizzerias. Located close to the sea, this pizzeria serves a variety of international favorites as well as being one of the few locations to serve the local, ever elusive ‘Charbonnade’ pizza. Characterized by its rustic charm and simplicity, this restaurant is a great option for visitors wishing to sample something other than Portuguese cuisine during their stay in the city.