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Porto has an incredible food and drink scene, and eating our way through the city was one of the highlights of our trip. From cozy restaurants to lively bars and wine spots with views, there’s no shortage of great places to eat and drink. This is a roundup of some of the best restaurants and bars in Porto, based on where we actually went, what we loved, and what stood out. Whether you’re planning a short visit or just want ideas on where to eat in Porto, these spots are well worth checking out. And everywhere listed has gluten-free options or menus.
Restuarants In Porto
Honest Greens was so amazing, we went twice during our short trip. We went once for lunch and once for breakfast. They have a decent-sized menu with tons of healthy food. There are many options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. They also have a bunch of delicious-looking desserts and a nice coffee bar. The vibe is cool too. It’s actually a chain with locations in Porto, Lisboa, Madrid, and Barcelona.
Terra Plana Cafe has great pizzas and cool cocktails. They are very careful about gluten-free. They also have a really cool outdoor patio space and an upstairs area with comfy couches to chill at. The pizza was delicious.
This is a dedicated gluten-free restaurant. We came here for breakfast on our last day before going to the airport. The food was good, and I like knowing there is no chance of cross-contamination. They also sell some gluten-free baking items and ingredients that you can take home.
McDonald’s
This is considered the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world. I actually didn’t eat anything from here, but they do have gluten-free options. I only went because I wanted to see if it lived up to the hype on Instagram, and yes, it did; it’s beautiful! It actually was once the Imperial Cafe, which opened in 1936. McDonald’s bought the building in 1995 and maintained most of the original architecture and art.
Com Cuore is like the most recommended spot in Porto for gluten-free. It’s a dedicated gluten-free cafe. They have food as well as pastries and, of course, Pastel de Nata. It is right in the center of Porto, but a little hidden in a courtyard. But it is worth finding because it was the only gluten-free Pastel de Nata I found in Porto. I wanted to go back for a Francesinha, which is a popular Portuguese dish, but I didn’t get a chance, so it is also on my list for my next trip.
Markets and Food Halls
This is a market and food hall. There are a bunch of stalls with everything from food to flowers to wine to candy, as well as produce. We found a stall with some healthy vegetarian options and also had some Vinho Verde. It’s really pretty, too. It’s a great spot to grab some lunch and wine and then pick up some gifts.
This is the old Mercado of Gaia that has been converted into a food hall. There were not a lot of options for gluten-free, but there was a burger place where I was able to get a burger without the bun. We also had the Port tasting at a snack bar outside.
Bars and Port Houses
Ilicito Bar was super cool with creatively crafted cocktails in an Alice in Wonderland theme. I didn’t know until after checking it out online, when I was back home, that it is actually a restaurant too, and it looks amazing! I want to go back for dinner next time I’m in Porto. Check out my Instagram reel about it!
When you are in Porto, you have to go to a Port House! This is a popular Port House with a restaurant and rooftop bar. We didn’t eat at the restaurant, but we went to the bar and had Port cocktails and gawked at the gorgeous view of Porto at night. They also have a Gelataria, an auditorium, and you can do Port tastings and learn all about Port. And of course, they have a store where you can buy bottles.
Where to Find These Spots
Most of the restaurants and bars on this list are located in central Porto, making them easy to reach on foot if you’re staying near the historic center. Areas around São Bento, Ribeira, and Baixa are packed with great food options and lively bars.
A few spots are across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, especially those focused on wine and views. These are still very easy to get to by walking across the Dom Luís I Bridge or taking a short ride. Porto is very walkable overall, and exploring different neighborhoods is part of the fun when it comes to eating and drinking your way through the city.
Tips for Eating in Porto
Dining times in Porto tend to run later than what many visitors are used to. Lunch is usually eaten in the early afternoon, and dinner often starts after 8 pm, especially at sit-down restaurants.
Markets are a great option for casual meals or trying a variety of foods in one place. They’re also useful if you’re traveling with different dietary needs or just want something quick and affordable.
Porto is known for hearty dishes and generous portions, so sharing plates is common and totally acceptable. It’s an easy way to try more things without overordering.
If you have dietary restrictions, it’s still very doable to eat well in Porto, but it helps to plan ahead. Many places are accommodating, especially if you ask, but menus are not always clearly labeled.
Wine and port tastings are a big part of the food culture here. Even if you’re not doing a full tasting, many bars offer port by the glass, which is a fun way to experience it without committing to a tour.
Gluten-Free Tips for Eating in Porto
Eating gluten-free in Porto is very doable, but a little planning goes a long way. Traditional Portuguese food can lean heavily on bread and sauces, so it’s always worth asking how a dish is prepared.
Grilled fish and meats are your safest bet and very common on menus. Just confirm there’s no flour in the seasoning or sauce, and ask for it simply prepared if needed.
Markets are a great option for gluten-free eating since you can see the food being made and choose simple ingredients. They’re also easier for quick meals without guessing.
If you’re celiac, learning a few key phrases in Portuguese helps a lot. Many servers understand gluten-free, but explaining that it’s an allergy usually gets clearer results. Sem gluten is how you say gluten-free in Portuguese.
And yes, gluten-free beer and snacks do exist in Porto. You just might need to pop into a grocery store or specialty shop rather than expecting it at every bar.
Final Thoughts on Eating in Porto
This list is on the shorter side since our trip was quick, and the beer festival definitely stole a few meals from our schedule. That said, Porto completely won me over. Between the food, the vibe, and how walkable everything feels, it’s the kind of city that begs for a return visit. I already have a running list of places to try next time, and yes, it mostly revolves around eating my way through the city again.
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