"Nuno Mendes, a London-based Portuguese chef with a prominent career abroad, is back in his native country to oversee his first-ever project in Porto, which has become one the the most sought-after seats in the city. Cozinha das Flores, nestled within Largo de São Domingos in Porto’s historic center, boasts an open-fire kitchen at the center of the room, turning out dishes rooted in northern Portuguese ingredients and inspired by local traditions. Mendes also serves creative takes on traditional Portuguese food, such as turnip pastéis de nata with caviar or a pão-de-ló (sponge cake) with shrimp. Know before you go: on weekdays, Mendes serves rich, pot-simmered Portuguese dishes for lunch." - Rafael Tonon