2 Best Restaurants in Ponte de Lima, Northern Portugal

It's best to come hungry to this rustic eatery across the Rio Lima, famed for its starters, such as rissóis de leitão (suckling pig rissoles) and orelha de porco (pig's ear), as well as main dishes like cabrito assado (kid roasted in a wood oven) and bacalhau with a corn bread crust. The stone-walled dining room is dominated by a massive fireplace that keeps the place warm on chilly evenings; in summer there's a pleasant shaded terrace. Servings are huge, so when dining alone don't be shy to ask for a half (meia dose). Don't miss their pudim de Abade de Priscos, an ultra-rich crème caramel pudding. 

A covered balcony held aloft by stone pillars makes this one of the most appealing places for outdoor dining in Ponte de Lima. You might start with the bolinhos de bacalhau, fried potato cakes with plenty of cod in them, and then try one of the regional dishes, such as rojões (fried pork), or the beef Wellington (a serving for two). Braver souls might go for the arroz de sarrabulho, made of rice and pig's blood, for which the restaurant is renowned.