MONTEEN — Restaurant in Porto

Stepping into this restaurant, I knew we were in for something special. From the moment we sat down, it was clear this was no ordinary dining experience.

The menu showcased the chef's innovative approach, with each dish offering a delightful surprise. We started with the charred cabbage - a humble vegetable elevated to new heights. The smoky flavor combined with a perfect tender-crisp texture was a revelation.

The cauliflower dish that followed was equally impressive. The chef's treatment of this versatile vegetable demonstrated both skill and creativity, bringing out flavors I never knew cauliflower could possess.

The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the kebab. Far from the standard fare, this was a fresh take on a classic. The meat was succulent and seasoned to perfection, with each bite bursting with flavor.

To complement our meal, we opted for the orange wine - an excellent recommendation that paired beautifully with the bold flavors of the food.

Just when we thought it couldn't get any better, the desserts arrived. Each sweet creation was a work of art, balancing flavors and textures in unexpected ways.

Throughout the evening, the staff provided attentive and personalized service. Their friendly demeanor and deep knowledge of the menu enhanced our dining experience.

This restaurant is a true gem for food enthusiasts looking to expand their culinary horizons. It's a place where every dish tells a story and every bite is an adventure. Highly recommended for those seeking a memorable and extraordinary...

Food was good if a bit overpriced. The babaganoush was my favourite, delicious!

However, the service and the general attitude towards customers is questionable. I made a simple request "please do not add coriander to this dish", and to my amazement I was told that was not possible. I wasn't asking them to change the dish, just not to put the final coriander topping, which if anything is less work for them. It escalated to a whole discussion as to why the chef could not do it because the dish doesn't make sense bla bla... guys, the dish doesn't make sense if it tastes like soap to me.

I understand art and creativity. But please also understand that you are running a restaurant to serve customers and give them a happy experience. It was a simple, reasonable and polite request. Why going through such trouble to leave the customer unhappy. Sorry but I will not return nor recommend...

The best food I have had in Portugal. Period. The Mediterranean- Israeli, Tunisian, Morrocan and Portuguese fusion kitchen operated by Chef Meshulam is exquisite.

It portrays the sea, the salt, the fresh hill crops and olive intake with a precise picante flavor.

The Zaatar fried fish is a starter to eat all day long and the shrimp Hrayme will let you enjoy the true Moroccan spirit with a European twist.

The service is top level, the atmosphere is homely and warm, as should be expected from a true Med spirit.

Bar-wise: A wide selection of local quality wines and a quirky cocktail selection , I recommend the tequila Chartreuse chili. The music has a psychedelic desert atmosphere, very intaking.

What started as a quite night turned into happy chatter with common conversations across guests, both Portuguese and tourist alike. I will come back...