Why Brasão Salgueiros Stole the Show in Porto
In June of last year, me and my friend Charl went to Porto for a week of adventures. It was my third time there and her first time in Portugal, and I couldn’t wait to show her my favourite country after years of going on about it!
Our Uber driver from the airport, a lovely older guy, told us we had to check out Vila Nova de Gaia. That’s how we ended up at Brasão Salgueiros, a beachside spot we visited on our first night. Honestly, it immediately stuck with us. The food, drinks, staff, and that beachside vibe—everything was just perfect.
We kicked things off with a classic Strawberry daiquiri, and after a long day of travelling, it was exactly what I needed. I love all things sweet, and this was spot on. It instantly got me into holiday mode and set the tone for such a chilled-out evening. Honestly, I’m all about the vibes when I pick a place, and this one totally delivered.
Charl’s steak was unreal. She ordered the "Bife com Ovo," which came with a fried egg on top and a tangy cucumber pickle on the side. She couldn’t stop talking about how good it was. I had the "Bife à Portuguesa," smothered in creamy peppercorn sauce and served with chips that were perfectly crisp. Every bite was the kind that makes you close your eyes and think, “This is what food is all about.” It was one of those meals that just hit the spot perfectly.
Then came dessert. I went for the "Taça de Chocolate e Pistácio," which was basically heaven in a bowl. Pistachio and chocolate ice cream with crunchy chocolate crumble and brownie bits. It was one of those desserts where you keep telling yourself, “Just one more spoonful,” and then suddenly it’s gone. No regrets.
After dinner, we strolled along the boardwalk just as the sun was setting. The sky turned this amazing mix of pinks and oranges, reflecting off the ocean. It was one of those moments where everything feels peaceful, like the world has paused just for you. The food alone made the night unforgettable, but the sunset just sealed the deal. Me and Charl are both graphic designers, and at the time, life had been so hectic—we really needed that break to step away from it all and breathe a little.
If you’re ever in the city of Porto, it’s worth scoping out Vila Nova de Gaia and checking out Brasão Salgueiros. Whether it’s for the cocktails, the steak, or just the chance to sit by the beach and soak it all in, it’s 100% worth it.
