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Caldo Verde
Pudim Abade de Priscos
Filete de pescada ou hambúrguer de vitela Mirandesa + Bola de gelado + Bebida
Bolo de bolacha e chocolate
About
Mario Luso
Welcome to Mario Luso, a hidden gem nestled in the charming locality of Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. This remarkable traditional Portuguese restaurant invites you on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich flavors and heritage of Portuguese gastronomy. Located at Largo Franca Borges, the ambiance is both cozy and inviting, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking to indulge in a meal that feels both intimate and culturally significant.
The menu at Mario Luso is a reflection of the country’s diverse culinary landscape, featuring an impressive selection of entrées, fresh seafood, and delectable desserts. Start your experience with their highly recommended Salada de Polvo, priced at €13.50, or savor the richness of the Lombo Bellota 100% Ibérico for just €8.50. Each dish showcases the quality ingredients and meticulous preparation that define authentic Portuguese cuisine.
For seafood lovers, the menu boasts exquisite options like the Arroz de Robalo Selvagem and the Filetes de Linguado Selvagem, both offering a taste of the ocean’s bounty. With prices ranging from €21.00 to €24.00, you can relish the freshness of wild-caught fish prepared in traditional styles. The expert wine pairing available enhances the dining experience, crafting a well-rounded sensory journey that is both refreshing and satisfying.
It’s also worthwhile to save room for dessert. The culinary team at Mario Luso has curated a selection of sweet delights that are not to be missed. The Bolo de Bolacha e Chocolate and Leite Creme Queimado, both priced at €5.50, promise to be delightful finishes to your meal. Each dessert is crafted with the same attention to detail found throughout the menu, ensuring every bite is memorable.
While many patrons have praised the high quality of food and inviting atmosphere, some experiences have been marred by service delays. A common sentiment expressed in customer reviews highlights the restaurant's potential and appealing culinary offerings, but also the need for improved efficiency during busier periods. Yet, for those who appreciate authentic flavors and are willing to savor the experience despite occasional hiccups, Mario Luso stands as a worthy destination away from the hustle of central Porto.
In summary, if you find yourself in Vila Nova de Gaia, Mario Luso is undoubtedly worth the visit for a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine. Whether you’re coming for a casual family meal or a special occasion, the gastronomic delights await you. Just consider planning for potential service delays, and you’ll walk away cherishing the experience and the wonderful dishes that honor Portugal’s culinary heritage.
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“ Really cool to experience a traditional Portuguese restaurant outside the city. Glad we made the 25 minute Uber from Porto! ”
“ It has potential as a traditional restaurant with good meat but food was underwhelming (the burger was bland and the veal tasteless). The pork secretos were good. Service was okay and the space is nice. Still got a +90€ bill with two kids menus... More expensive than expected. ”
“ Following the recommendation, we came to enjoy the food. The experience is spoiled by the service. Three waitresses were serving the smaller room. After ordering we waited for food hour and a half. When we finished eating nobody saw our empty plates. We asked for a menu to order desserts. We got the menu but it is 30 min since the menu was given and no one is here to take an order. We are leaving. We take a coffee and dessert somewhere else. ”
“ Good overall experience of Portuguese gastronomy. A restaurant with cozy ambience outstanding service and an amazing decoration more like a private collection expo of Portuguese and wild cultural heritage. The plates are served mostly individual with excellent portion size and amazing wine pairing. A wide variety of drinks and deserts :) ”
“ Amazing food! Light and welcoming ambiance. Warning! The prices are STEEP! However I find the food and service quality to be WORTH IT! ”
“ Traditional portuguese cooking in a traditional environment. Went there following the Michellin guide and it is truly a good place with great service and food for an affordable price. It is in Carvalhos, about 30mins from the tourist area of Ribeira but totally worth the trip. We were mainly accompanied by locals. Don’t miss the bolinhos de bacalhau and arroz de tamboril. ”
“ Traditional Portuguese cuisine very well cooked. Nice wine list and good service. Costela mindinha is a must. ”
“ This place was incredible, the food was delicious, the staff was super friendly and went the extra mile to make out dinner an unforgettable experience, the wine was superb and the desserts were heaven. I've always wanted to come here and never did and I regret it, I should have come sooner! 5/5***** ”