Italy Caffè Gaia — Restaurant in Vila Nova de Gaia

I visited Italy Café in Gaia at around 4:30 PM and had an incredibly disappointing experience. Upon arrival, we informed the waiter that we wanted a table for two to enjoy coffee and dessert. The waiter, who could barely communicate in Portuguese or English, struggled to explain their supposed “policy.” After a confusing back-and-forth, we were told we couldn’t be seated unless we ordered a starter along with dessert.

Despite explaining that we were returning customers, they insisted this was an “eternal policy.” When we asked to speak with the manager, we were given a ridiculous excuse—that people in the area come in just to order dessert and sit for hours on their laptops. Mind you, we had no laptops or work materials with us—just two customers wanting to enjoy a simple dessert.

What’s even worse? The restaurant was nearly empty, and nowhere on the doors or menus was this policy advertised. It wasn’t until we asked to file a complaint in the official “Livro de Reclamações” that their tone completely changed. Suddenly, they were willing to accommodate us—but at that point, it was too late. They had already lost two returning customers. If this so-called policy was so important, why did they backtrack the moment an official complaint was mentioned?

This experience was unprofessional, unwelcoming, and frankly absurd. If you’re looking for a place with good service, I suggest taking your...

I was not expecting to get a delicious meal here when I saw how big of a menu they have. But, coming from a newbie in Italian cuisine, I thought my order was just perfect! Loved the taste and the presentation. Prices are not very low, many of the main dishes prices start at 10€, I would expect to leave here 15-20€ per person. Unexpectedly, the place is big inside, with lots os tables, so you can either enjoy the outside or seat near the beautiful view near the window, or stay in between and enjoy a warm atmosphere of this place.

Been here second time now, still appreciated the place, but not as much as the first time. The prices a little too high for the quality offered in here, especially the drinks. Sorry, but more than 2€ per 0.5L water bottle is ridiculous. Some prices in the menu scream that this is all for the tourists to pay. My pizza marinara was nice, loved that it wasn't too salty despite having anchovies in it. But the dough was hard to chew...

Nous étions 6 français, certains d'origine italienne et nous avons tous apprécié déjeuner (midi) au restaurant Café Italia Gaia, situé au 278 Avenida da República à Vila Nova de Gaia, car c'est un établissement apprécié pour son ambiance agréable et sa cuisine italienne.

Type de Cuisine Le Café Italia Gaia propose une cuisine italienne authentique. Les plats sont préparés avec soin, mettant en avant les saveurs traditionnelles de l'Italie.

Spécialités Le restaurant a bonne réputation pour proposer des pâtes fraîches, des pizzas artisanales, des bons risottos et d'excellents desserts comme le tiramisu. Les clients apprécient la variété des plats et la qualité des ingrédients utilisés.

Ce qui plaît aux clients Les clients apprécient particulièrement l'ambiance chaleureuse et accueillante du restaurant.

L'environnement est décrit comme "muito giro", ce qui signifie agréable et charmant en portugais. La salle est bien aérée et spacieuse, offrant une vue magnifique. Le service est également très apprécié, avec un personnel sympathique et disponible.

Budget Le budget moyen par personne est d'environ 20 €, ce qui est raisonnable pour un repas de qualité dans un cadre agréable.

Décoration et Ambiance Le restaurant bénéficie d'une décoration soignée et d'une ambiance conviviale. La salle est lumineuse et bien ventilée, ce qui contribue à une expérience de repas agréable.

La vue depuis le restaurant est également un atout majeur, offrant un cadre idéal pour un repas en famille ou entre amis.

En résumé, le Café Italia Gaia est un excellent choix pour ceux qui recherchent une cuisine italienne authentique dans un cadre agréable à Vila Nova de Gaia.

Je recommande cette adresse car c'est un restaurant où on y passe un excellent moment.

Je joins en annexe quelques photos et vidéos. Svp mettre un smiley, un bravo ou un cœur ou autre etc...sous l'avis et les photos pour m'encourager dans ma démarche. Cela fait toujours plaisir d'avoir des retours sympathiques.

Bonne visite. Best regards. Éric Tison F-57 Féy (Metz....