Incredible. A gastronomic experience that is very worthwhile. To be repeated, without a doubt.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rhicke Jennings
Nestled in a quiet side street in Porto's Bonfim area, Izakaya Japanese Cuisine Restaurant is a hidden gem you might easily overlook if you’re not searching for it. Despite its unassuming location, this intimate establishment is well worth seeking out for its unique take on Japanese cuisine. With only about a dozen seats, including a cozy sushi bar, Izakaya offers a personalized dining experience where chef Rúben Mesquita frequently engages with patrons as he crafts each dish.
The atmosphere is casual and intimate, with a mix of international guests and local couples seated at the sushi bar during our visit. Reservations are a must, as we learned a few years ago when we tried to drop in spontaneously and were politely turned away due to the restaurant’s limited seating. After finally booking a spot well in advance, we received thoughtful reminders leading up to our dining date. On the day of, the chef or manager even called to inquire about dietary restrictions, a gesture we appreciated, given my wife’s aversion to raw seafood.
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated promptly without the need for introductions. The service, although attentive and knowledgeable, is understandably paced, given that only two staff members manage the entire operation. The menu, which varies daily based on ingredient availability, was meticulously explained to us, as was the thoughtfully curated wine list.
Our culinary adventure began with a delightful chef’s treat: a ball of diced raw tuna coated with dried seaweed, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was a thoughtful touch, though I found it curious they served it to my wife, given her preference for cooked dishes. The remainder of our meal was presented in courses, highlighting the chef’s modern interpretations of Japanese classics.
We started with shrimp tempura which was expertly prepared. I indulged in a selection of sashimi and Kobe beef nigiri, while my wife opted for the Okonomiyaki. One of the highlights was the soy sauce, imported directly from Japan, and the fresh wasabi, grated tableside—a rare treat even in Japan.
While I relished each dish, the pacing might be a consideration for those with dietary preferences, as my wife found herself waiting as I savored the raw delicacies. However, this also allowed us to appreciate the exceptional wines paired with our meal. The Quinta de Ceis, Caracol dos Profetas, and the intriguingly dry Respiro Ciarete blend were all selected to complement the subtle flavors of the Japanese cuisine.
For those new to Japanese food, Izakaya is a culinary treasure, offering detailed explanations of each dish that serve as an educational experience. However, seasoned travelers or those familiar with authentic Japanese dining may find the chef’s creative interpretations less traditional. Regardless, the combination of excellent food, engaging service, and carefully chosen wines makes Izakaya a memorable destination.
With its charming atmosphere and unique culinary offerings, Izakaya earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars. The restaurant provides an intriguing glimpse into Japanese cuisine, with a special emphasis on presentation and flavor that will surely delight both novices and aficionados alike. Do remember to bring a bit of patience for the personalized service—it is well worth the wait.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Fresh Wasabi, Sushi
Abilio Leite
One word defines everything... Excellence!
Dietary restrictions: They always ask if there are any restrictions
Wheelchair accessibility: Yes, it is possible. The space is small, but without steps.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Taylor Palensky
I don’t eat seafood. The chef went out of his way to think of thoughtful, complex, delicious vegetarian items for me for the tasting menu. Then we got to the Kobe Nagiri which is one of the best things I’ve ever tasted
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rui Reis Maia
Me and my partner had such an amazing experience at Izakaya. The food and drinks we're exceptional, it really felt being in Japan for a moment. :) Pedro & Ruben we're such great hosts. You can really feel and taste their passion for Japanese cuisine. Obrigado por tudo!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Claudio Fischer
The best and most Japanese-like experience you’ll have in Porto. A must!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fresh Wasabi, Sushi
Porto Freedom
This is the best Japanese restaurant you can experience in Porto. The price is high, but if you want to eat delicious Japanese food in a cozy atmosphere, be sure to visit!! Reservation is required!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ana Santos
Simply divine! I recommend the mackerel, fantastic! Excellent wine list. Intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
Everything perfect!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cavala
Juan Carlos C.P.
One of the best experiences you can have eating Japanese cuisine. The flavors are tremendous, everything very fresh and of top quality. The attention of the staff is 10, explaining each dish and making the experience even better. Without a doubt, it is worth every euro you pay. I hope we can repeat soon!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Daniel Rodrigues
Unforgettable experience. We went for the degustation menu, and tried different white wines and teas. The Caracol dos Profetas was a great surprise. The dishes kept growing in quality, always with a twist duly explained by the chef.
We were welcomed as if coming to a friends home.
Overall, it's been a while since having such a great experience. Highly reccomend!
Nous avons passés un moment unique dans ce lieu magique où nous avons dégusté d'excellents plats. Notre hôte nous a accueilli avec sourire et a été au petit soins avec nous (surtout notre fille de 8 ans). Tous les plats étaient délicieux et uniques. Une belle découverte que je recommande à 1000% pour ceux qui veulent découvrir la gastronomie Japonaise.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mariana Neto
Amazing dinning experience in Porto, definitely a must for sushi lovers!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Juan mercant bauza
Quite a discovery, high product quality and perfect treatment.Without a doubt a recommendable place, if you are looking for a traditional Japanese concept.Thank you very much for the experience, in addition to being excellent, it was very instructive
Dirk Mettlen
My highlights: the fresh wasabi, the aged-in-port-barrels soy sauce (ultimate umami), their ways of aging / preparing Miso, the matured fish, the okonomiyaki.Service was amazing. Recommendations were right on target (wine pairing, helping on our choices on the a la carte menu…).Atmosphere is great, very intimate setting.Thanks folks for the experience and see you soon!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Cynthia Edde
If you're looking for an authentic Omakase culinary experience, Izakaya is the one and only place in Porto.It is a hidden gem offering exceptional and authentic Japanese dining experience.As soon as you step inside, you're warmly greeted by the two owners.The attention to details is impeccable, from the quality of ingredients to the presentation of each dish/moment. The Omakase menu was a delightful journey, incredibly fresh and top-notch products. Every course was thoughtfully prepared, highlighting the chef's skills and passion.So prepare yourself to be amazed by the Chef’s dedication to excellence and his profound appreciation for authentic Japanese cuisine.
Incredible. A gastronomic experience that is very worthwhile. To be repeated, without a doubt.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nestled in a quiet side street in Porto's Bonfim area, Izakaya Japanese Cuisine Restaurant is a hidden gem you might easily overlook if you’re not searching for it. Despite its unassuming location, this intimate establishment is well worth seeking out for its unique take on Japanese cuisine. With only about a dozen seats, including a cozy sushi bar, Izakaya offers a personalized dining experience where chef Rúben Mesquita frequently engages with patrons as he crafts each dish.
The atmosphere is casual and intimate, with a mix of international guests and local couples seated at the sushi bar during our visit. Reservations are a must, as we learned a few years ago when we tried to drop in spontaneously and were politely turned away due to the restaurant’s limited seating. After finally booking a spot well in advance, we received thoughtful reminders leading up to our dining date. On the day of, the chef or manager even called to inquire about dietary restrictions, a gesture we appreciated, given my wife’s aversion to raw seafood.
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and seated promptly without the need for introductions. The service, although attentive and knowledgeable, is understandably paced, given that only two staff members manage the entire operation. The menu, which varies daily based on ingredient availability, was meticulously explained to us, as was the thoughtfully curated wine list.
Our culinary adventure began with a delightful chef’s treat: a ball of diced raw tuna coated with dried seaweed, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was a thoughtful touch, though I found it curious they served it to my wife, given her preference for cooked dishes. The remainder of our meal was presented in courses, highlighting the chef’s modern interpretations of Japanese classics.
We started with shrimp tempura which was expertly prepared. I indulged in a selection of sashimi and Kobe beef nigiri, while my wife opted for the Okonomiyaki. One of the highlights was the soy sauce, imported directly from Japan, and the fresh wasabi, grated tableside—a rare treat even in Japan.
While I relished each dish, the pacing might be a consideration for those with dietary preferences, as my wife found herself waiting as I savored the raw delicacies. However, this also allowed us to appreciate the exceptional wines paired with our meal. The Quinta de Ceis, Caracol dos Profetas, and the intriguingly dry Respiro Ciarete blend were all selected to complement the subtle flavors of the Japanese cuisine.
For those new to Japanese food, Izakaya is a culinary treasure, offering detailed explanations of each dish that serve as an educational experience. However, seasoned travelers or those familiar with authentic Japanese dining may find the chef’s creative interpretations less traditional. Regardless, the combination of excellent food, engaging service, and carefully chosen wines makes Izakaya a memorable destination.
With its charming atmosphere and unique culinary offerings, Izakaya earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars. The restaurant provides an intriguing glimpse into Japanese cuisine, with a special emphasis on presentation and flavor that will surely delight both novices and aficionados alike. Do remember to bring a bit of patience for the personalized service—it is well worth the wait.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Fresh Wasabi, Sushi
One word defines everything... Excellence!
Dietary restrictions: They always ask if there are any restrictions
Wheelchair accessibility: Yes, it is possible. The space is small, but without steps.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I don’t eat seafood. The chef went out of his way to think of thoughtful, complex, delicious vegetarian items for me for the tasting menu. Then we got to the Kobe Nagiri which is one of the best things I’ve ever tasted
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Me and my partner had such an amazing experience at Izakaya. The food and drinks we're exceptional, it really felt being in Japan for a moment. :) Pedro & Ruben we're such great hosts. You can really feel and taste their passion for Japanese cuisine. Obrigado por tudo!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The best and most Japanese-like experience you’ll have in Porto. A must!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fresh Wasabi, Sushi
This is the best Japanese restaurant you can experience in Porto. The price is high, but if you want to eat delicious Japanese food in a cozy atmosphere, be sure to visit!! Reservation is required!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Simply divine! I recommend the mackerel, fantastic!
Excellent wine list.
Intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
Everything perfect!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cavala
One of the best experiences you can have eating Japanese cuisine. The flavors are tremendous, everything very fresh and of top quality. The attention of the staff is 10, explaining each dish and making the experience even better. Without a doubt, it is worth every euro you pay. I hope we can repeat soon!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Unforgettable experience. We went for the degustation menu, and tried different white wines and teas. The Caracol dos Profetas was a great surprise. The dishes kept growing in quality, always with a twist duly explained by the chef.
We were welcomed as if coming to a friends home.
Overall, it's been a while since having such a great experience. Highly reccomend!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Nous avons passés un moment unique dans ce lieu magique où nous avons dégusté d'excellents plats. Notre hôte nous a accueilli avec sourire et a été au petit soins avec nous (surtout notre fille de 8 ans). Tous les plats étaient délicieux et uniques. Une belle découverte que je recommande à 1000% pour ceux qui veulent découvrir la gastronomie Japonaise.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing dinning experience in Porto, definitely a must for sushi lovers!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Quite a discovery, high product quality and perfect treatment.Without a doubt a recommendable place, if you are looking for a traditional Japanese concept.Thank you very much for the experience, in addition to being excellent, it was very instructive
My highlights: the fresh wasabi, the aged-in-port-barrels soy sauce (ultimate umami), their ways of aging / preparing Miso, the matured fish, the okonomiyaki.Service was amazing. Recommendations were right on target (wine pairing, helping on our choices on the a la carte menu…).Atmosphere is great, very intimate setting.Thanks folks for the experience and see you soon!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
If you're looking for an authentic Omakase culinary experience, Izakaya is the one and only place in Porto.It is a hidden gem offering exceptional and authentic Japanese dining experience.As soon as you step inside, you're warmly greeted by the two owners.The attention to details is impeccable, from the quality of ingredients to the presentation of each dish/moment. The Omakase menu was a delightful journey, incredibly fresh and top-notch products. Every course was thoughtfully prepared, highlighting the chef's skills and passion.So prepare yourself to be amazed by the Chef’s dedication to excellence and his profound appreciation for authentic Japanese cuisine.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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