MAFALDA’S — Restaurant in Matosinhos

Mafaldas is, without a doubt, one of my favorite restaurants in Matosinhos. I've been there many times—probably more than 50 times over the last three to four years.

The food is always delicious, creative, and a fusion of flavors from around the world. They change the menu daily, offering two options in addition to the regular menu, with one always being vegetarian. While the portions are satisfying, this isn’t the kind of place known for very generous servings.

The restaurant is located inside Mercado de Matosinhos, so it can be a bit noisy, but the setting is unique and lively. In the winter, it can get chilly if you're seated in the covered market area, but in the summer, it's very comfortable.

The prices are incredibly reasonable—it's rare to find this level of quality at such affordable prices.

Oh, and the desserts?...

The menu changes everyday and there is not a lot of choice (typically just two options for the main dish). So it is a good idea to go check the menu of the day on Instagram. We got the katsu of pork. It was good, coherent. The breading was detaching from the meat in some part, but it was otherwise well cooked, very crispy. The pork cutlet were a bit thin and a bit dry in some part. The katsu sauce was good, but a bit unbalanced for my taste (too strong, for lack of a better word). I would have prefer the dish with more textural contrast: a thicker creamier sauce, probably sweeter. However, as I said, it was still very good and also well presented. The dessert was a tarte de chocolate e whisky. It's a bit like a chocolate mousse in a pie...

Mafalda’s, tucked away inside Mercado de Matosinhos, is a charming spot with a welcoming vibe. Remember to place your order beforehand, as it’s a popular local favorite. The dishes are outstanding, featuring generous portions and thoughtfully selected ingredients that deliver authentic, delightful flavors.

Though it might not be an absolute must-visit destination, if you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a stop - you won’t regret it. I tried their veggie lasagna and instantly fell in love with it; the taste was simply exceptional. Mafalda’s offers a genuinely enjoyable dining experience that leaves you satisfied and...