Portuguese cuisine and wines in Old Farm 30′ from Porto

Thinking about diving into Portugal’s culinary world? This tour, offered by HM FoodExperience, promises a taste of authentic Portuguese flavors just a short trip from Porto. If you’re someone who loves combining food, wine, and a little bit of cultural exploration, this could be a lovely option, especially if you enjoy interactive experiences rather than just looking at menus.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the chance to learn about Portuguese gastronomy firsthand — from raw ingredients to finished dishes — in a setting that feels both authentic and relaxed. Plus, the farm visit adds a layer of local charm, with opportunities to harvest vegetables and stroll through vineyards. However, it’s worth noting that this tour is only available on specific days, and the visit is relatively short, so it’s best suited for those wanting a quick but meaningful taste of Portugal’s culinary traditions.

One thing to consider is the choice of menu, which is flexible at the farm but not in Porto. Also, the experience is designed as a private group, making it more intimate but possibly less spontaneous if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group. Overall, if you’re in the Porto area and want a hands-on introduction to Portuguese food and wine, this tour offers a solid, well-rounded experience.

Who would this suit?
Ideal for curious food lovers, small groups, or couples looking for a cultural culinary outing. It’s also a good choice if you want to get out of the city for a few hours and enjoy a peaceful rural setting.

Key Points

• Authentic local cuisine: Learn about traditional Portuguese dishes and cooking techniques.
• Hands-on experience: Prepare your own dishes like codfish with cornbread and custard tarts.
• Wine tasting: Discover the flavors and characteristics of local wines paired with each course.
• Farm visit: Explore the garden, harvest vegetables, and visit vineyards, adding a tangible farm-to-table element.
• Flexible scheduling: Available at 11 am or 7 pm, with options to choose menus at the farm.
• Short but immersive: Just 4 hours, making it easy to fit into a day trip from Porto.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Breaking Down the Experience

Arrival and Introduction

You’ll start at the farm located at R. da Aldeia Nova 810, a quick 30-minute journey from Porto, either by train or taxi. Once there, the experience kicks off with a presentation of raw foods, complete with explanations about their history and how to prepare traditional dishes. This part is especially helpful if you’re new to Portuguese cuisine or want some handy tips from local experts.

Food and Wine Tasting

Around 12:30 pm, the tasting begins with appetizers like codfish fritters, roasted chorizo with cornbread, and olives. These are classic Portuguese starters, and the wine tasting that accompanies them allows you to appreciate the variety of local wines and their unique notes. The chef or guide shares insights into each wine’s characteristics, which makes the tasting even more engaging.

Cooking Demos and Dish Preparation

What makes this tour stand out is the interactive element. You’ll get to see how dishes are made, with examples such as codfish with cornbread or roast pork with saffron baked rice for the main course. This isn’t just a demonstration; you might get the chance to help in the kitchen, which is a fun way to deepen your understanding of the cuisine.

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Dessert and Final Tasting

After the main dishes, it’s time for dessert — think custard tarts, a beloved Portuguese specialty. The preparation of these treats is included, giving you a full-circle experience from raw ingredients to the finished meal.

The Farm and Vineyard

One of the highlights is the walk through the farm and vineyards. Harvesting vegetables from the garden or exploring the old house adds an authentic rural feel. It’s a chance to see where the ingredients come from and appreciate the farm-to-table process firsthand. The vineyards, in particular, showcase Portugal’s tradition of wine-making, making their visit quite meaningful for wine enthusiasts.

Lunch and Farewell

Your hand-prepared meal is served around 1 pm, giving you ample time to enjoy the food and chat with your hosts. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to ask questions and absorb the local culture beyond just eating.

The Practical Details

Duration and Schedule

This experience lasts approximately 4 hours, with flexible start times at either 11 am or 7 pm, depending on your preference. That flexibility can help fit it into a busy Porto itinerary, whether you’re a morning person or prefer an evening outing.

Group Size and Accessibility

The experience is offered as a private group, which means you get a more personalized atmosphere. It’s also wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a range of travelers.

Cost and Booking

While specific prices aren’t mentioned here, the experience is designed to offer good value — combining food, wine, farm visits, and hands-on participation. You can reserve your spot and pay later, adding some peace of mind to your planning.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Why We Think This Tour Works

This experience isn’t just about eating; it’s about understanding Portuguese culture through its ingredients, methods, and land. The combination of culinary demonstration, tasting, and farm exploration offers a well-rounded, informal introduction that doesn’t feel rushed. We loved the way it balances education with fun, and the chance to harvest vegetables or walk through vineyards adds a tangible, memorable aspect.

The tour’s setting in a rural farm environment enhances the authenticity, away from the busy city streets. Plus, the local wines and traditional dishes make it a great way to get a taste of Portugal’s culinary soul.

However, a few potential drawbacks include the limited schedule and the short duration, which might not be enough if you’re craving a more in-depth cooking class or extensive wine tour. Also, the menu varies depending on the day, so if you’re very particular about specific dishes, it’s worth confirming what’s on offer beforehand.

Who Should Consider This Experience

If you’re in or near Porto and want a hands-on, immersive culinary experience, this tour hits the spot. It’s especially good for couples or small groups who enjoy exploring local traditions in an intimate setting. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate farm visits or want a break from sightseeing to indulge in good food and wine.

This experience is less ideal if you’re looking for a lengthy, in-depth cooking course, or if you prefer a tour that covers more ground in a single day. But for a relaxed afternoon that combines food, wine, and rural charm, this could be just the ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu focuses on traditional dishes like codfish and roast pork, so vegetarians might find limited options unless they specify in advance. It’s best to check with the provider directly.

Can I choose the menu?
Yes, at the farm, you can choose between different menu options, although the conditions are different from those in Porto.

How do I get to the farm from Porto?
You can take a train costing about €6 for a round trip or a taxi for roughly €110 for four people, which makes it quite accessible without needing a car.

What languages are available for the tour?
The experience is offered in French, English, and Portuguese, accommodating various travelers.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is designed for private groups, so it’s tailored to the number of participants you book with.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for a farm environment — think layers and shoes suitable for walking around the garden and vineyards.

Are there any age restrictions?
The details don’t specify age limits, but it’s probably best suited for adults or older children, given the nature of food preparation.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for different mobility needs.

What is the typical group size?
Since it’s a private experience, group sizes are tailored to your booking, generally small to ensure a personalized touch.

Final Thoughts

This Portuguese food and wine tour offers more than just a meal — it’s a small, curated window into the land’s culinary roots. You get to see, taste, and even help prepare traditional dishes in an authentic farm setting, all with the added bonus of exploring vineyards and harvesting fresh ingredients.

It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, educational, and tasty outing that provides a genuine connection to Portuguese culture. While it’s not a deep-dive cooking class or a vast wine tour, it’s a genuine, well-curated experience that’s likely to leave you with good memories and some new skills.

If you’re after a friendly, intimate way to experience Portuguese cuisine away from tourist traps, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to book in advance, especially if you’re aiming for the evening slot, and confirm the menu if you have specific preferences.

Enjoy your journey — and bon appétit!

You can check availability for your dates here: