Braga, a city in the northwest of Portugal, is a place where history, culture, and gastronomy blend seamlessly to create a unique travel experience. As a self-proclaimed food lover, I was excited to explore Braga’s culinary scene, which offers everything from rich traditional dishes to modern takes on Portuguese flavors. During my trip, I visited six amazing restaurants that not only showcased Braga’s culinary traditions but also introduced me to some hidden gems. Join me as I take you through a delicious journey of Braga’s best eateries, local delicacies, and food experiences that you simply can’t miss.
1. Tasquinha Dom Ferreira: Traditional Portuguese Comfort
Location: Rua do Souto, 135, Braga
Nearby Attractions: Braga Cathedral, just a short 5-minute walk
On my first day in Braga, I knew I had to try a quintessential Portuguese meal, and Tasquinha Dom Ferreira did not disappoint. Located in the heart of Braga’s old town, this small, cozy restaurant offers a traditional menu that stays true to the roots of Minho cuisine.
Walking into the restaurant, I immediately felt the charm of this family-run establishment. The décor was simple yet inviting, with wooden tables and warm lighting. The staff was incredibly friendly, making me feel right at home.
What I Tried:
For the main course, I ordered bacalhau à Braga, a classic Portuguese dish of cod cooked with onions, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of white wine. The cod was perfectly flaked, tender and slightly crispy around the edges, and the caramelized onions added a sweet balance to the saltiness of the fish. I also indulged in a side of roasted potatoes, golden and crispy, which complemented the richness of the cod.
To end the meal, I tried pudim Abade de Priscos, a traditional Portuguese flan made with eggs, sugar, and a touch of pork fat (yes, you read that right). The texture was smooth and creamy, and while the idea of pork fat might seem odd, it added an unexpected depth to the dessert.
Pricing:
- Bacalhau à Braga: €14
- Pudim Abade de Priscos: €5
Discounts and Booking:
I made a reservation via TheFork, which gave me a 10% discount on the total bill. I recommend booking in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the weekend as it can get busy.
Recommendation Index: 9/10
The food was excellent, and the location made it a convenient stop after exploring Braga Cathedral. The only downside was that the restaurant is a bit small, so getting a table without a reservation might be a challenge.
2. Restaurante Dona Julia: Views and Local Specialties
Location: Estrada do Bom Jesus, Braga
Nearby Attractions: Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site just a few minutes away
After a morning visit to the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte, I was ready to enjoy a leisurely lunch, and Restaurante Dona Julia was the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with a view. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The setting itself was tranquil and elegant, with large windows that framed the picturesque scenery.
What I Tried:
I went for the cabrito assado, a roasted goat dish that is a traditional specialty of the Minho region. The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, having been slow-cooked with herbs, garlic, and white wine. The dish was served with crispy roasted potatoes and sautéed vegetables, which balanced out the richness of the goat meat. For dessert, I had torta de laranja, a soft, citrusy orange cake that was light and refreshing.
Pricing:
- Cabrito Assado: €17
- Torta de Laranja: €4.50
Discounts and Booking:
I booked a table through the restaurant’s website, and they offered a complimentary appetizer of olives and bread, which was a nice touch.
Recommendation Index: 10/10
The food was fantastic, but the highlight was definitely the view. If you’re planning to visit Bom Jesus do Monte, I highly recommend taking the time to enjoy a meal here. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
3. Tia Isabel: A Cozy Spot for Home-Cooked Meals
Location: Avenida João XXI, 657, Braga
Nearby Attractions: Parque da Ponte, a beautiful park that’s just a short walk away
For a more casual, home-cooked meal experience, Tia Isabel was a perfect choice. This unpretentious restaurant is beloved by locals for its hearty, traditional Portuguese dishes. It’s a small, family-run place, and you can tell that the chefs care deeply about serving quality food.
What I Tried:
I opted for the arroz de pato, a delicious Portuguese rice dish made with duck, chorizo, and aromatic spices. The rice had absorbed all the flavors of the duck, and the chorizo added a smoky richness. The dish was baked until golden and crispy on top, which added a delightful texture. For a starter, I enjoyed a bowl of caldo verde, a comforting kale soup with potatoes and chorizo.
Pricing:
- Arroz de Pato: €12
- Caldo Verde: €4
Discounts and Booking:
Tia Isabel doesn’t accept reservations, but I arrived just before peak lunch hour, and there was no wait. The prices are incredibly reasonable for the portion sizes.
Recommendation Index: 8/10
While the food was outstanding, the lack of reservations can make it a bit tricky to get a table during peak hours. However, it’s definitely worth the wait.
4. Taberna Belga: A Taste of Belgian Flavors in Braga
Location: Largo da Senhora A Branca, 58, Braga
Nearby Attractions: The Arch of the New Gate (Arco da Porta Nova), a 15-minute walk away
After a full day of sightseeing, I craved something a bit different, and that’s when I stumbled upon Taberna Belga. This Belgian-inspired tavern brings a bit of Brussels to Braga with its selection of Belgian beers, hearty stews, and indulgent comfort food.
What I Tried:
I couldn’t resist trying their francesinha, a Portuguese sandwich stuffed with layers of meat and cheese, then smothered in a rich, spicy sauce. It’s one of the most famous dishes in Portugal, and Taberna Belga’s version did not disappoint. The sandwich was decadent and satisfying, especially when paired with a cold Belgian beer. For dessert, I had a waffle, which was topped with whipped cream and chocolate sauce.
Pricing:
- Francesinha: €15
- Belgian Waffle: €5
Discounts and Booking:
I booked a table via TheFork and received a €5 discount on my meal, which was a nice surprise.
Recommendation Index: 9/10
The food was comforting and hearty, and the Belgian beer selection made it a fun spot for foodies looking for something different.
5. Spirito Cupcakes & Coffee: Sweet Delights and Coffee Breaks
Location: Avenida da Liberdade, 617, Braga
Nearby Attractions: Jardim de Santa Bárbara, a peaceful garden just a few steps away
For a sweet afternoon treat, Spirito Cupcakes & Coffee was the perfect stop. This cozy café specializes in artisan cupcakes, coffee, and homemade gelato.
What I Tried:
I went for a red velvet cupcake paired with a scoop of salted caramel gelato. The cupcake was moist and light, with just the right amount of cream cheese frosting. The salted caramel gelato was velvety and indulgent, with a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness.
Pricing:
- Red Velvet Cupcake: €2.50
- Salted Caramel Gelato: €2 per scoop
Discounts and Booking:
No reservation needed, but it’s worth following them on Instagram for occasional discounts and updates on new flavors.
Recommendation Index: 10/10
It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a treat after exploring the nearby garden.
6. Mercado Municipal de Braga: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Location: Rua Francisco Sanches, Braga
Nearby Attractions: Igreja de São Marcos, located just around the corner
If you want to truly experience Braga’s food culture, visiting the Mercado Municipal de Braga is a must. This bustling market is home to a variety of vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and baked goods.
What I Tried:
I indulged in some freshly baked broa de milho, a type of cornbread that’s a staple in Portuguese cuisine. I also sampled a few pastéis de nata, the famous Portuguese custard tarts. They were perfectly flaky, with a rich, creamy custard filling. I picked up a bottle of locally made olive oil and some cured ham to take home as souvenirs.
Pricing:
- Broa de Milho: €1.50
- Pastéis de Nata: €1 each
- Olive Oil: €8 per bottle
Discounts and Booking:
No booking is necessary, but arriving early ensures you get the freshest items.
Recommendation Index: 9/10
The market itself is an experience, and it’s a great place to pick up authentic Portuguese ingredients.
Braga is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of traditional Portuguese dishes and unique regional specialties. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting plate of bacalhau or a sweet pastel de nata, the city’s diverse restaurants and markets provide something for every palate. From cozy family-run spots to trendy cafés, Braga’s culinary scene is rich, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying.
Tags: Braga Restaurants