Arco Iris - Vila Nova de Gaia

The lady at Reis de Gaia where we stayed recommended this restaurant to us. This is a restaurant where the locals eat and we enjoyed eating here much more than at the restaurants on the waterfront. Great food, generous portions, fair prices and good service. We went there 3 times during our stay in Vila Nova de Gaia and wasn't disappointed once.

This small restaurant, diner almost, is located on a small street off the main drag in Vila Nova de Gaia. On the corner is the large Sandeman port wine cellar, which is a landmark. Our apartment was situated almost next door, which was lucky for us. Our landlady recommended the seafood rice, similar to a paella, for 2. It was really tasty, enormous portion, and lots of seafood in it. The lamb was also good. The wine was OK. Apart from the seafood rice, the food was pleasant but not very special. Very nice service and very good prices though. About 60 euros for our dinners plus wine, water and a few small appetizers.

A bit off the riverside esplanade, locals were queuing in the light drizzle to get inside. First you pop in and write your name and how many seats you need at the bottom of a list, then you wait for your turn outside. Names are called out as and when tables become available. Despite the small size, the service is fast and efficient so we didn’t have to wait for long before we were seated. The food is fresh and very tasty, “home style” local cuisine. Our friendly waiter suggested a nice glass of port to round off a great meal.

Restaurante familiar, muy acogedor y con una deliciosa comida. Comimos cordero a la sartén y nos trajeron una enorme bandeja, la carne en su punto perfecto, muy sabrosa y tierna. El servicio es muy atento y el excelente cocinero. Por todo lo que comimos, no encontramos nada caro. Muy recomendable!

Nous avons préféré ne pas prendre le déjeuner du midi le long de la rivière. On a pris les ruelles et on s'est bien débrouillés. Très bon accueil, délicieux plat, nous avons passé un bon moment en famille sur la terrasse.