Majestic Café — Restaurant in Porto

Stepping into the Majestic Café is like stepping back in time to Portugal's Belle Époque era. This iconic café, located on Rua Santa Catarina in Porto, has been a beloved gathering spot for intellectuals, artists, and locals since it opened in 1911. The café's opulent interior, with its gilded mirrors, carved wood paneling, and stained glass windows, is a testament to the era's extravagance.

History

The Majestic Café was founded by António Cruz and Rodolfo Rocha, two entrepreneurs who were inspired by the grand cafés of Paris. They envisioned a space that would be both elegant and welcoming, where people could come to relax, socialize, and enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal.

The café quickly became a popular spot among Porto's elite, and it soon gained a reputation as a center of intellectual and cultural life. In the 1920s and 1930s, the Majestic Café was a regular haunt of writers, artists, and politicians, and it was here that many important ideas were exchanged and debated.

The café's popularity continued throughout the 20th century, and it remains a beloved institution in Porto today. In 2011, the Majestic Café was designated a National Monument, and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world.

Architecture and Interior Design

The Majestic Café is a prime example of Belle Époque architecture and interior design. The café's façade is adorned with neoclassical details, such as pilasters and cornices, and its interior is a symphony of marble, gilt, and stained glass.

The café's most striking feature is its main room, which is a large, two-story space with a balcony overlooking the street. The room is decorated with elaborate carved wood paneling, gilded mirrors, and stained glass windows. The ceiling is adorned with a fresco, and the floor is covered with a marble mosaic.

The café's other rooms are also richly decorated, each with its own unique character. The Winter Garden is a bright and airy space with a glass roof, while the Salon Bleu is a more intimate space with plush seating and soft lighting.

Furnishings

The furnishings of the Majestic Café are just as impressive as its architecture and interior design. The café's chairs and tables are made of dark wood and upholstered in plush velvet. The walls are adorned with paintings and photographs, and the floors are covered with rich carpets.

The overall effect is one of opulence and elegance, and it is no wonder that the Majestic Café has been a popular spot for over a century.

Today

The Majestic Café is still a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The café serves a variety of coffees, teas, and pastries, as well as light meals and snacks. It is also a popular spot for afternoon tea, which is served in the café's elegant Winter Garden.

If you are looking for a taste of Porto's Belle Époque era, then the Majestic Café is a must-visit. The café's opulent interior and rich history make it a truly unique and...

We were on a road trip in Portugal mid of June this year, Majestic Cafe was the first restaurant in the checklist, we came with very high expectations of how good the Portuguese food should be. It was definitely a famous hotspot in the central Porto and attracts a lot of tourists , but please think twice if your sole purpose is good food.

We came at around 3pm in the afternoon, the restaurant was quite busy, few people queue outside still. Again, think twice if you really want to queue for eating photos.

It is located in a historical building with beautiful European decoration and I believe that is why it attracts the tourists to do some instagram worthy pictures.

The seating arrangement was terrible, the space among each table was so narrow and tight, came in a group of four , we were told by the waiter to squeeze into a tiny table and two of us need sit in the pathway that waiters and other clients passing by all the time, it was really uncomfortable to enjoy in such a confined space. We requested the waiters to help us find another place, they were not very attentive until we asked multiple times. The lesson learned was maybe you just drop by for a coffee and some light snack , take pictures and quickly leave , but definitely not to come for food.

The food itself is struggled at mediocre to average line, as you can see from the picture, we ordered various dishes plus two desserts, nothing was impressed, the French toast was way too sweet. That is level 100 sweet not in a pleasant way.

Last but not the least, this is probably the most expensive place we have been to in the entire Portugal, the food served in the picture cost us EUR152, for sure not very good...

Breakfast at the Majestic Cafe

Last time I had my coffee here about 10 years ago. And and I decided to visit to Majestic Café in Porto during my current trip, as it was an unforgettable experience last time I'd like to highlight five positive points that stood out:

Exquisite Ambiance: The café's exterior and interior is a feast for the eyes with its Art Nouveau architecture, ornate mirrors, and beautifully carved woodwork. 🖼️ Stepping inside feels like traveling back in Time Machine to the early 20th century.

Impeccable Service: I think the very same guy was serving our table 10 years ago - very polite and charismatic. ))) The staff at Majestic Café are not only professional but also incredibly attentive and friendly. He really allowed me to feel welcomed and well-cared for, making my visit even more enjoyable.

Delightful Cuisine: The menu offers a delectable selection of mainly European dishes. I suggest the perfectly brewed coffee and - if you’re hungry - the fresh pastries and hearty meals.

Rich History. Since my visit this café already celebrated its hundreds anniversary. ❗️Majestic Café is steeped in history, having been a popular meeting place for writers, artists, and intellectuals and - of course tourists like me - since its opening in 1922. This rich heritage adds a unique charm and depth to the dining experience.

Cultural Hub. I love its selection of music, which creates nice atmosphere for morning coffee. Beyond its role as a café, Majestic serves as a cultural landmark in Porto.

Overall, Majestic Café is a must-visit for anyone in Porto, offering an unparalleled combination of history, culture, and...