Where to Eat in Porto Right Now: 5 Trending Restaurants Locals Actually Love
From riverside bacalhau to cult-status brunch, these Porto restaurants are buzzing in 2026.
This guide spotlights 5 Porto restaurants that are quietly exploding in popularity. Expect high ratings, serious flavor, and the kind of neighborhood energy that signals you have arrived just before the crowds.
Where to Eat in Porto Right Now: 5 Trending Restaurants Locals Actually Love
Porto’s restaurant scene is having a moment. Classic taverns are leveling up, modern kitchens are reimagining Portuguese comfort food, and brunch has gone from niche to full-on obsession.
Below are 5 spots that are not just well reviewed, but actively trending, with strong ratings, loyal regulars, and growing buzz among both locals and visitors.
Do Norte Café by Hungry Biker | Brunch & Breakfast - Cozy neighborhood spot
Do Norte Café by Hungry Biker has become the unofficial headquarters for hungry brunch fans in Porto. With a 4.8 rating across more than 4,600 reviews and a standout growth score, it is one of the most talked about daytime restaurants in the city.
Why it is trending now
- Brunch culture in Porto has exploded, and Do Norte is riding the wave with creative plates that still feel comforting.
- The steady stream of recent reviews shows it is not just a one-season wonder but a go-to for both locals and digital nomads.
- Its relaxed, bike-friendly vibe fits perfectly with the Cedofeita and arts district energy nearby.
What to order
- Stacked pancakes with seasonal toppings and proper espresso-based coffee.
- Eggs Benedict or shakshuka style dishes for a hearty late breakfast.
- Smoothie bowls and fresh juices if you want something lighter before a day of walking the hills.
Good to know
- Expect a short wait at peak brunch hours, especially on weekends.
- Great option if you want an early start before exploring central Porto on foot.
Terra Nova - Late-night energy
Terra Nova pairs a strong 4.4 rating with more than 2,300 reviews, anchored by its scenic location close to the Douro. This is a place that keeps drawing people back for its atmosphere as much as its plates.
Why it is trending now
- The riverside area has seen a surge of evening traffic, and Terra Nova benefits from that constant flow of diners and night owls.
- It balances tourist-friendly service with a menu that still feels rooted in local flavors.
- Recent review momentum suggests word of mouth is keeping it near the top of many shortlists.
What to order
- Seafood dishes that showcase the Atlantic influence, like grilled fish and shellfish.
- Petiscos style small plates if you want to share and linger over wine.
- Desserts paired with a glass of port as the lights reflect on the river.
Good to know
- Perfect for a pre or post sunset walk along the Douro.
- Book ahead for prime-time dinner slots, especially in high season.
Muu Steakhouse - Destination for meat lovers
With a 4.9 rating and more than 3,400 reviews, Muu Steakhouse is one of Porto’s highest rated spots for serious carnivores. It has become a destination restaurant, not just a convenient option.
Why it is trending now
- The combination of top ratings and strong growth score shows that Muu is not slowing down, even as new competitors open.
- Food-focused travelers are actively seeking it out for its consistency and service.
- Social media and review photos of perfectly cooked steaks keep fueling its popularity.
What to order
- Signature steaks cooked to your preferred doneness, with attention to char and texture.
- Classic sides like creamy mash, grilled vegetables, and house sauces.
- A bottle from their wine list, with plenty of Douro reds that match the meat-heavy menu.
Good to know
- Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
- Best suited for those who want a sit-down, slightly upscale meal rather than a quick bite.
Muro do Bacalhau - Riverside bacalhau specialist
Muro do Bacalhau leans into one of Portugal’s most iconic ingredients: salted cod. With a 4.6 rating and more than 3,100 reviews, it has become a reliable pick for anyone who wants a bacalhau-focused meal right by the water.
Why it is trending now
- The Douro riverside has turned into a dining hotspot, and Muro do Bacalhau stands out for its clear concept and solid execution.
- Travelers looking for a classic Porto experience are sharing it in guides, blogs, and social posts.
- Its growth score indicates strong ongoing interest rather than just a tourist-season spike.
What to order
- Bacalhau prepared in different regional styles, such as baked with cream or grilled with garlic and olive oil.
- Starters featuring cod fritters or fish-based petiscos.
- Local wines and ports that pair well with salty, rich flavors.
Good to know
- Ideal if you want a meal that feels distinctly Portuguese in both setting and taste.
- Outdoor seating is especially popular on clear days and mild evenings.
Bacalhau - Classic flavors with a modern crowd
Bacalhau backs up its name with a 4.5 rating and more than 4,200 reviews, making it another powerhouse for cod-focused cooking in Porto. It sits firmly on the radar of visitors who want a dependable, central restaurant with a local feel.
Why it is trending now
- Its combination of high volume of reviews and a strong growth score shows that it remains a top-of-mind choice in 2026.
- The restaurant benefits from repeat recommendations by guides, hotel staff, and locals who know visitors want a bacalhau experience.
- It has managed to handle heavy foot traffic while keeping quality and service at a solid level.
What to order
- House bacalhau dishes that highlight different preparations of salted cod.
- Seasonal sides and salads that lighten the meal if you are tasting multiple courses.
- A glass of vinho verde or Douro white to cut through the richness.
Good to know
- Expect a busy dining room at peak hours, especially in spring and summer.
- A smart pick if you want a cod-focused meal without having to research niche spots.
How to eat like a local in Porto
- Mix brunch and traditional: Start a day at Do Norte Café by Hungry Biker, then plan one lunch or dinner around bacalhau and another around steak.
- Follow the river: Terra Nova, Muro do Bacalhau, and Bacalhau all tap into the Douro’s energy, making it easy to pair your meal with a walk or a sunset drink.
- Book key meals: For Muu Steakhouse and the most popular riverside tables, reserving is the safest way to avoid long waits.
Why these Porto restaurants are on your radar now
All five of these spots combine strong ratings with real, on-the-ground momentum. They are busy but still feel personal, rooted in local flavors yet open to global tastes. Use this list as a starting point, then let MapsBuddy help you uncover the next wave of rising places nearby.
With MapsBuddy, you are always one step ahead of the mainstream, finding the restaurants that locals are talking about right now, not last year.
Places featured in this guide
1. Do Norte Café by Hungry Biker | Brunch & Breakfast
Rua do Almada 57/59 4000, 4050-036 Porto, Portugal
2. Terra Nova
Cais da Ribeira 34, 4050-509 Porto, Portugal
3. Muu Steakhouse
Rua do Almada 149A, 4050-037 Porto, Portugal
4. Muro do Bacalhau
Cais da Estiva 122, 4050-080 Porto, Portugal
5. Bacalhau
Muro dos Bacalhoeiros 154, 4050-080 Porto, Portugal