The Art of Eating and Making Friends

If you’re visiting Porto and craving a taste of local life beyond the usual tourist spots, the Art of Eating and Making Friends tour might just be what you’re after. This experience offers a chance to dine in a local Porto apartment, enjoy authentic Portuguese food, and connect with others in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you’re solo, a couple, or part of a small group, it’s a chance to see Porto from a different angle—through its flavors, its people, and its views.

What immediately drew us in about this experience is the casual, social vibe—it’s not a formal restaurant, but a warm, inviting home where locals open their doors and hearts. Plus, the inclusion of local wines and drinks makes it feel like a true taste of Portuguese hospitality. That said, it’s not for everyone; space is limited to six guests, so it’s intimate but may require some planning around the timing. Overall, it’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy food, conversation, and a little authenticity in their travel stories.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is designed to be a carefree, social evening. If you’re expecting a structured tasting or a grand culinary journey, you might find it more informal than some other food tours. But if you’re open to spontaneous chats and authentic home cooking, this could be a real highlight. It’s especially appealing if you love meeting locals and getting a glimpse of everyday life in Porto.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Authentic local experience in a Porto apartment, not a commercial restaurant
• Includes all food and drinks, making for an easy, worry-free evening
• Focus on socializing, with lively conversation and great music
• Beautiful city views and lush greenery add to the relaxed atmosphere
• Limited group size of 6, ensuring an intimate setting
• Affordable price for a multi-course, chef-prepared meal in a private home

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Imagine stepping into a cozy Porto apartment with panoramic views of the city. That’s the starting point of this three-and-a-half-hour adventure, hosted by João Inácio, a warm and welcoming guide who’s passionate about sharing his local culture. The evening begins at 7:00 pm, a perfect hour for unwinding after a day of sightseeing or just settling in for a relaxed dinner.

The Atmosphere and Setting

From the reviews, it’s clear that João’s place is warm and inviting, with touches of greenery that make the space feel lively yet intimate. Expect to gather around a table with other travelers and locals, where the vibe is informal, friendly, and lively. The setting encourages conversation and connection, making it more than just a meal—it’s a social event.

The apartment’s location, close to public transportation, makes it easy to find and convenient to access, which is a plus for those unfamiliar with Porto. The experience is capped at six travelers, preserving that cozy feel and enabling genuine interactions—something we really appreciate.

The Food and Drinks

The menu is a delightful mix of traditional and innovative Portuguese dishes. You’ll savor local meats, fish, and vegetable dishes—all prepared by João himself. One of the highlights is a Codfish dish, which is a staple in Portugal and often a favorite among visitors. The appetizers are a showcase of cheeses, meats, and homemade bread, with reviews praising the bread in particular.

All food and drinks are included, covering alcoholic beverages and bottled water, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. This setup makes the evening feel relaxed and carefree, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the flavors and the company. As one reviewer mentioned, “The meal was very good,” and “the shrimp and rice dish was one of the best dishes I’ve had.” It’s clear that João’s cooking hits the right notes for most.

Music, Conversation, and Views

What sets this experience apart is the combination of good food, lively music, and great company. It’s not just a dinner; it’s a social gathering that elevates the experience. Guests have described the conversations as “lively,” with hosts being “cordial,” which makes for a memorable, engaging evening.

And then there are the views—the apartment’s windows overlook Porto’s skyline, and the lush greenery adds to the sense of being in a secret garden above the city. It’s the kind of backdrop that makes conversations flow more easily and adds a special touch to the night.

The Price and Value

At $98.42 per person, this experience offers a lot—an authentic multi-course meal, drinks, a cozy setting, and a chance to connect with locals. When compared to typical restaurant meals in Porto, this is a good deal considering the personalized service, the view, and the cultural insight. Plus, all the food and drinks are included, removing any surprises or extra expenses.

Some might find the price a bit steep for a casual dinner, but for what’s offered—an intimate setting, home-cooked food, and a chance to meet locals—it’s fair. Reviews support this, noting the quality of the meal and the warm hospitality. Basically, you’re paying for an experience rather than just a meal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys small-group settings, authentic local interactions, and home-cooked food, you’ll likely love this experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those who appreciate the stories behind dishes and the chance to chat with locals in a relaxed environment. It’s also a good option if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, as the capped number of six ensures everyone gets to participate fully.

While it’s not geared specifically towards families or children, most travelers who love food, socializing, and authentic experiences will find this a rewarding evening. If you’re after a formal tasting or a highly structured tour, you might prefer something else. But if you want to feel connected to Porto’s everyday life, this is a lovely choice.

The Sum Up

The Art of Eating and Making Friends tour in Porto offers an authentic glimpse into local life through food, conversation, and shared experiences. It’s a wonderful way to relax after a day of exploring, with the added bonus of stunning views and warm hospitality. The focus on socializing makes it ideal for curious travelers eager to meet new people and learn about Portugal’s culinary traditions in a casual setting.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy small, intimate gatherings, home-cooked meals, and lively chats. The price reflects the personalized nature of the experience and the quality of the food, drinks, and atmosphere. It’s not a high-end fancy dinner, but rather a genuine, heartfelt encounter with Porto’s local culture.

If you’re looking for a relaxed evening that combines delicious food, beautiful views, and friendly company, this could be a highlight of your trip. Just be sure to book in advance, as space is limited, and remember that it’s all about enjoying the moment and making new friends.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
The menu features local meats, fish, and vegetable dishes, so it might be best to check with the host in advance if you have specific dietary restrictions.

What is included in the price?
All food and drinks are included—this means the multi-course meal, local wines, bottled water, and any alcoholic beverages served during the evening.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 7:00 pm, giving plenty of time to enjoy the meal and conversation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel in time.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at R. Orfeão do Porto 229, in Porto. The experience ends back at the same location.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
The group size is capped at 6 travelers, and the experience requires a minimum number to operate—if it’s canceled due to low bookings, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted, making it accessible for travelers with disabilities.

In all, if you’re seeking a relaxed, authentic night out in Porto that combines great food, stunning views, and meaningful conversations, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a lovely way to see the city’s warm, welcoming side — one plate, one glass, and one new friend at a time.