Vila Foz
Porto, Portugal
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
It will surprise you, as it occupies what was once the luxurious events room of the Vila Foz H. & SPA, an evocative 19th-century mansion located opposite Praia do Homem do Leme. Here, surrounded by elegant frames, period goldwork, original lamps and mirrors inspired by grand palatial residences, discover the gourmet cuisine of Chef Arnaldo Azevedo, who through his menus Novo Mundo (entirely vegetarian) and Maresia (more focused on Atlantic products, playing with the tides’ rhythm) champions a contemporary style of cooking that highlights the flavours of Portugal’s fantastic fish and seafood. Curious facts? In what used to be the bar, there is a counter in front of the stoves, where they also offer a far more personal, intimate, and intense option called the “Kitchen Seat” reserved exclusively for just two diners and where… the experience is enhanced by constant interaction with the chef!
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Here are three unique and unconventional aspects of the Michelin-starred restaurant Vila Foz in Porto:
1. Dining in the Former Ballroom
The Vila Foz restaurant is uniquely situated in the hotel's former ballroom, blending historic grandeur with fine dining under the guidance of chef Arnaldo Azevedo.
2. The Kitchen Seat Experience
Vila Foz offers an exclusive and immersive dining option called the "Kitchen Seat," where guests sit at a bar counter facing the restaurant's kitchen, allowing them to observe the culinary team in action and engage with the cooking process firsthand.
3. Location in a 19th-Century Seaside Mansion
The restaurant is part of a stunning 19th-century mansion located on Porto’s Foz do Douro coastline, combining classic aristocratic architecture with contemporary luxury and providing an elegant seaside ambiance that enhances the dining experience.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred Vila Foz restaurant in Porto, under Chef Arnaldo Azevedo, reflect a strong focus on fresh, seasonal Portuguese seafood and coastal products. Key ingredients include:
Lobster: Considered the "king of the sea," lobster is a central ingredient often featured in signature dishes such as lobster rice. This dish blends traditional Portuguese flavors with haute cuisine techniques, showcasing the versatility and luxury of lobster in both refined and regional styles.
Fish and Seafood from the Portuguese Coast: The restaurant emphasizes freshness and authentic flavors of Atlantic fish and seafood, which are the foundation of many tasting menu dishes. These ingredients highlight the maritime heritage of Porto and are treated with elegance and bold culinary techniques.
Seasonal Portuguese Produce: Vila Foz uses fresh, seasonal ingredients native to Portugal, ensuring that the dishes reflect the local terroir and culinary traditions, often combined with contemporary gastronomic creativity.
These ingredients are used in dishes that balance tradition and innovation, with a focus on texture, flavor precision, and a strong connection to the sea, making them signature to Vila Foz's Michelin-starred cuisine.