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Porto is filled with glorious little cafés and eating places, however each every so often, you bump into a spot that feels additional particular, the type of spot that makes you need to inform everybody about it whereas additionally selfishly wanting to maintain it to your self. Cândido dos Reis Café is precisely that type of place.
I discovered this café on a quiet night stroll via Galerias, Porto’s buzzing restaurant and bar district. Tucked away on Rua de Cândido dos Reis, it’s simple to overlook for those who’re not in search of it, however belief me, when you step inside, you’ll be glad you probably did.
A Cozy, Welcoming Area
From the second I walked in, I felt like I had entered a good friend’s dwelling somewhat than a typical café. Perhaps it’s as a result of two sisters personal and run the place, and their heat and hospitality shine via in every part.
The ambiance is relaxed, with easy however cozy decor that lets the meals and dialog take middle stage. In contrast to a number of the livelier spots in Galerias, Cândido dos Reis Café presents a extra intimate, laid-back expertise, making it good for unwinding over a superb meal or taking the burden off your ft throughout a Porto meals tour! .
The Meals: Comforting, Flavorful, and Made with Love
The menu isn’t large, however that’s a superb factor as a result of every part feels fastidiously chosen and well-executed. I made a decision to strive their signature dish: rissois with tomato rice, and wow, I used to be not dissatisfied.
Rissois & Tomato Rice: A Profitable Combo
Rissois are small, crispy pastry crammed with several types of meat, fish, or vegetarian choices. I went for a combination – one with sardines, one with beef, and one vegetarian. They had been completely golden and crisp on the surface, with a mushy, flavorful filling inside.
The tomato rice, served alongside, was a revelation. Creamy, wealthy, and deeply comforting, it had simply the appropriate stability of acidity and sweetness from the tomatoes. It tasted like one thing a Portuguese grandmother would make, in one of the simplest ways attainable.
In case you have dietary restrictions, you’ll be blissful to know that meat-free and gluten-free choices can be found upon request, including to the superb vary of vegan and vegetarian choices in Porto. I seen a number of clients having fun with vegetarian variations of the dish, they usually regarded simply as scrumptious.
Distinctive Service with a Private Contact
The service right here is one thing particular. I’ve been to many cafés the place the workers are well mannered however distant, however right here, they genuinely care about your expertise. One of many house owners checked in on my desk, not in a pressured, scripted method, however as if she needed to verify we had been having fun with ourselves.
From recommending the very best rissois fillings to sharing a little bit of the café’s backstory, the group made me really feel not identical to a buyer, however like a visitor. They’re attentive with out being intrusive, and you’ll inform they take pleasure in what they do.
Pricing: Value Each Euro
Porto has loads of locations the place you possibly can eat cheaply, however Cândido dos Reis Café falls into the mid-range class, providing incredible worth for cash. The parts are beneficiant, the elements are top quality, and for the extent of care put into the meals and repair, I’d say it’s value each cent.
It’s priced equally to different cafés within the space, however what units it aside is the cozy ambiance and do-it-yourself really feel of the dishes.
Finest Time to Go to? Dinner
In contrast to many cafés, Cândido dos Reis Café is simply open for dinner, which provides to its appeal. It’s the type of place the place you agree in for an unhurried meal, possibly with a glass of wine, because the night hums alongside outdoors.
I visited round 7 PM, and it was calm however not empty, it was simply the appropriate degree of buzz to really feel energetic with out being overwhelming. If you happen to’re in search of a quiet, relaxed meal, I’d say that is the right time to go.
What Makes this Café Particular?
There are many cafés in Porto, however Cândido dos Reis Café stands out as a result of it feels private. It’s not simply one other stylish spot catering to vacationers – it’s a family-run, woman-owned enterprise that feels real and welcoming.
There’s one thing concerning the mixture of easy, scrumptious meals, nice service, and a comfortable setting that makes this place really feel like slightly hidden gem within the coronary heart of town.
Closing Ideas: Would I Go Again? Completely.
If you happen to love discovering locations that really feel like an area secret, this café ought to be in your checklist. Whether or not you’re a foodie, a traveler, or simply somebody who enjoys a fantastic meal in a welcoming area, you’ll go away feeling blissful, full, and already fascinated about your subsequent go to.
I do know I’ll be again—in all probability with mates, so I can introduce them to considered one of my new favourite spots in Porto.
Regularly Requested Questions (FAQs)
- Does Cândido dos Reis Café provide takeaway and supply? No.
- Can guests reserve a desk on-line? Sure.
- Are there WiFi and charging stations for distant employees? WiFi is offered, however no charging stations.
- Does the café settle for card funds or solely money? Each.
For anybody in search of scrumptious, home-style Portuguese meals in a comfortable setting, Cândido dos Reis Café is a must-visit. Don’t simply take my phrase for it, expertise it your self!
Sources:
Cândido dos Reis Café. (n.d.). Fb. Fb. Retrieved April 11, 2025, from https://www.fb.com/candidodosreiscafe/?locale=pt_PT
Consuming Europe. (n.d.). Porto meals excursions. Consuming Europe. Retrieved April 11, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/porto/
Consuming Europe. (2023, Might 2). Vegan Porto: 5 vegan locations to eat in Porto. Consuming Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/weblog/vegan-porto/
Consuming Europe. (2023, Might 9). Porto vegetarian eating places: 5 veggie-friendly spots in Porto. Consuming Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/weblog/porto-vegetarian-restaurants/
