“Life is like a box of chocolates” said everyone’s favourite movie character. However, had Forrest Gump’s director visited Porto backyard gardens, and our city would have probably featured in one of the most famous movie lines of all time. Here’s the thing about Porto: behind the narrow façades of the downtown’s 1500’s buildings, you truly never know what you’re gonna get!
HERE ARE 4 SECRET BACKYARD GARDENS IN PORTO
CASINHA BOUTIQUE CAFE
Photo by: Nuno Carvalho
Let’s start with what is probably the worst kept secret when it comes to backyard gardens in the city. Regarded as a real pioneer, A Casinha started a trend among restaurants and bars which were housed in old traditional buildings, as one of the first commercial spaces to make an overhaul to their back gardens. It worked so well that people used to go there just to enjoy the lovely decorated gardens…well, and also to stuff their faces on delicious scones of course! A place that put “Boutique” in its name before it was cool, this is a café and a garden you’ll definitely want to see. A Casinha is open every day between 9am and midnight.
CAFÉ VITÓRIA
Photo by: Nuno Carvalho
Café Vitória is so discreet and unassuming that you may easily miss it if you’re not paying attention. However, once inside, you’ll realize it fits into whatever it is that you are looking for. Looking for a late-afternoon drink? Go to the bar. A light lunch? They serve burgers, toasts and salads in their smaller dining room. Fancying something more elaborate for dinner? Try their main restaurant on the top floor. As you can see, Café Vitória is always a good choice regardless of the time of day – and their two amazing spaces in the backyard (one covered room that resembles a greenhouse and a garden) are just the cherry on top. Café Vitória is open from Wednesday to Monday between noon and 1am.
ESPIGA
Photo by: Nuno Carvalho
As a place that blends art, travels and food, Espiga will feel like home for customers who like to wander, write and share. One look at their giant origami world map hanging on one of the walls and you’ll instantly understand the kind of place you’re walking into. A place where imagination is the keyword, which is why seating in their backyard garden just soaking in the atmosphere while having one of their rich soups is a great way to draw so much-needed inspiration. Besides, every Thursday night people go there and share their travel experiences, so pop up and let us know what you’ve been up to! Espiga is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 8pm and 1am.
EM CARNE VIVA
Photo by: Nuno Carvalho
Ironically called Em Carne Viva (a Portuguese expression for when a wound is open and looking nasty) this restaurant offers a fine-dining vegetarian experience, and a gourmet option for those who believe fancy food isn’t all about filet mignon or scallops. Its beautiful backyard garden is decorated with tables and chairs where you can sit down while enjoying your meal, and it’s actually so extensive that even yoga classes are taught there! Don’t worry though, these classes take place off-mealtimes, so you don’t have to struggle with keeping eye-contact with your boyfriend while that ripped guy in the background is flexing! Em Carne Viva is open from Monday to Saturday between noon and 10pm.
And that’s our list! Which one did you find more appealing? Let us know on the comments section!
