€€Modern Cuisine
Its wooden construction and reddish hue show that it once operated as one of the many salt warehouses facing the São Roque canal (the only one that still preserves its essence today). This setting, not without sophistication, offers a cuisine based on Portuguese gastronomy, incorporating ingredients from the estuary, presented in a modern format with signature touches. Among them, the smoked eel stands out, served with fresh notes and beetroot emulsion, the sea fish accompanied by bivalves from the estuary, and the classic Portuguese style egg nog presented in various textures. The menu featur
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Salpoente, situated on an Aveiro canal, offers modern Portuguese cuisine praised for fresh ingredients, complex flavors, and consistent technical execution. Many guests highlight the cozy atmosphere and reliable quality year after year. However, negative reviews point to significant inconsistencies in service, including poor meal pacing, wine ordering errors, and unattentive or clumsy staff. Some diners noted missing menu items and felt the portion sizes were too small relative to the cost. Additionally, the location is described as far from downtown in a dark, less safe neighborhood at night. While the food quality is generally high, the overall experience is marred by service lapses and logistical issues.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic modern Portuguese cuisine who can tolerate potential service inconsistencies.
€€€Contemporary
This sophisticated restaurant is housed in an eighteenth-century palace, which now hosts the MS Collection Aveiro – Palacete Valdemouro, an historic building where the writer and diplomat Eça de Queiroz lived, and on which all its décor is inspired. The offering, signed by the renowned chef Rui Paula and executed daily by chef João Covas, is developed under the motto ‘each dish, a story’ and proposes updated dishes with products sourced mainly from the waters that surround the city. With à la carte options and two tasting menus of 6 and 10 courses, modern versions are present such as A Nossa C
€€seafood
This restaurant, with more than half a century of history yet updated in a contemporary urban style, stands opposite the canal from which the popular Moliceiros depart — the small boats that take tourists around the ria (indeed, the venue’s name evokes another traditional vessel, slightly larger, once used to transport fish and salt). What is found here? The menu features contemporary dishes rooted in local tradition, accompanied by excellent house-made bread and various rice dishes (we particularly enjoyed Arroz de algas de Aveiro e bacalhau (Aveiro seaweed and salt-cod rice)). The offering,
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Located by the canal in Aveiro, Mercantel features a chic, modern, and warm atmosphere. Reviews frequently praise the excellent service, beautiful dish presentation, and high-quality ingredients. However, some guests note issues with value, citing slow pacing, small portions, and occasional inconsistencies in food preparation. While most experiences are positive, a minority report dissatisfaction with pricing and service speed. It is generally well-regarded for its ambiance and attentive staff.
Suitable for diners prioritizing ambiance and service, though those sensitive to portion sizes or wait times may want to manage expectations.