Seemor
Porto › Ribeira › Taberna dos Esquecidos
Taberna dos EsquecidosA-Worth Trying
Tv. de Cedofeita 40A, 4050-157 Porto, Portugal
· Restaurant, Wine bar
· 4.8/5 Google (512 reviews)
Reservations
Cozy upstairs taberna for Portuguese small plates and a thoughtful wine list; excellent food and warmth, but cash-only and small portions with occasional waits.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Taberna dos Esquecidos delivers exceptional food quality anchored by standout pork cheeks, baby squid, and chocolate mousse, paired with warm, attentive service that creates genuine hospitality. The charming upstairs hideaway and thoughtful wine program elevate the experience, though occasional consistency dips, service pacing constraints when busy, and recent safety concerns prevent grade A territory. A beloved neighborhood gem that rewards those seeking simple Portuguese cooking done right.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked above a quiet Cedofeita alley, this intimate room feels warm and homely without turning fussy. Guests talk about a host who glides in with a tiny chalkboard, pours well-chosen wines, and checks in just enough. One diner put it simply: "It felt like a friend's living room with better food." Do note the cash-only policy and that pacing stretches when the room fills. The cooking leans classic Portuguese with a clean, ingredient-first style: pork cheeks that melt into their red wine sauce, garlicky baby squid, and thick chocolate mousse. Plates are modest in size—meant for sharing—so plan a few per person to make a meal. This suits diners who enjoy simple dishes done right over showy fusion; the wine list is a quiet strength, guided with friendly, if occasionally imperfect, suggestions. For families, the snug space and small-plate format can be tricky. There is no kids menu, and portions run small. That said, straightforward items like bread, mozzarella with tomato, and tomato salad may work for selective eaters. Bring euros because cards from abroad are not accepted.
At a Glance
- Cozy upstairs hideaway with genuine warmth
- Standout pork cheeks, baby squid, and chocolate mousse
- Thoughtful Portuguese wine selection with helpful guidance
- Cash-only and no international cards accepted
- Small portions and occasional long waits between plates
What Sets It Apart
- intimate_upstairs_hideaway
- chalkboard_menu_service
- strong_Portuguese_wine_guidance
What People Love
- That tucked-away, intimate setting
- Friendly, welcoming host and staff
- Deeply flavored pork cheeks and squid
- Simple desserts that overdeliver (mousse, panna cotta)
Points of Concern
- Cash-only policy with no international cards; some guests were not warned
- Small portions; plan multiple plates to feel satisfied
- Service pacing slows when full; occasional missed items or wine pairing mismatch
- Isolated recent reports of foodborne illness; majority had no issues but vigilance advised
- Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (none detected materially; natural variation observed).
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€28-40 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a balanced spread: peppers or mozzarella, garlic prawns, pork cheeks, and panna cotta
- For vegetarians: aromatic salad, peppers, hummus, ricotta mushrooms, and mozzarella combo
- Seafood-forward option: salmon carpaccio, garlic prawns, baby squid, and cod with crumbs
Perfect For
- Date night in a cozy nook
- Wine-led small-plates dinner
- Relaxed catch-up with a friend
- Final-night Porto meal with local feel
Location Insights
Area: Creative, central neighborhood with galleries and boutiques; draws locals and travelers seeking non-touristy dining.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked streets; typical urban awareness needed at night on side alleys.
Nearby: Near Rua de Cedofeita shops, bars, and small galleries; short walk to downtown attractions.
CedofeitaCedofeita is a lively and artistic neighborhood in Porto characterized by its bohemian atmosphere, independent shops, galleries, and a diverse range of eateries and wine bars. It attracts a crowd interested in creative culture and relaxed yet sophisticated dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday17:00–00:30
Thursday17:00–00:30
Friday
Saturday17:00–00:30
Sunday17:00–00:30
Available: Reservations
View full analysis on Seemor →