Tasquinha da Linda

A restaurant with a great location, right in the port — which feels very authentic for a seafood spot and really added to the atmosphere. All the seafood was fresh and flavorful. The desserts were also a pleasant surprise and impressed our taste buds. Service was good — nothing exceptional. The only downside was the plating — we expected more in terms of presentation some dishes.

This is a lovely restaurant and dining experience. The venue is elegant and the food is exquisite. Our server forgot one of our salads, but quickly brought it out. The dining area seemed crowded as items were served. I got an up close view of more elbows than I wanted. Still, a beautiful dining experience. Large portions of delicious seafood, and excellent wine.

We booked Tasquinha da Linda for a private corporate reception and dinner. The evening started with cocktails and appetizers outside on the patio. We followed up with a wonderful four course dinner inside. Delightful fresh seafood is their specialty. Everything was delicious and the service from Linda, Sergio and Anais was spectacular. It felt like we were invited over to their home for a family feast. Prices are high for Viana do Castelo but still a bargain compared to US or the rest of continental Europe for the quality of food and service.

While the restaurant is very nice and the service impeccable, the sea food platter was a little meagre for the cost. Many of the shells were from small animals with little inside, and some were much tastier than others. We would come again but try a different item in the menu.

What makes this place enormous is the stuff who took a great care about our table and order. Not only by drop-and-go, but waitresses had also recommended for us favorite options among drinks and desserts. It’s obvious that they know what is being sell in the menu and are able to adapt to the guest expectations. The food was not that spectacular as we thought it will be, however still done well and served nicely. Restaurant near the port with a cost design inside.

I am so happy that I gave myself this experience! So peaceful when the service is so professional and every dish, or glass of wine is a celebration of the creatures and ingredients. And from this relaxed state of gratitude, I assumed that something might have been lost translation when I requested that half of the generous portion be prepared to go. I left without it, but was “chased” down by a kind staff member who handed me my bag of to go left overs! Above and beyond! Treat yourself to dishes and service that bring meaning to our lives and I hope, as well, to the chefs and staff and plants and animals and the tradition that they celebrate in their cooking.

Before I begin: the restaurant has a Michelin guide mention, and does NOT have any stars. This could be a good thing, because my food was… okay. I ate a grilled John Dory, which was enthusiastically salted to within an inch of its life. It came with some rather limp green beans and some very soggy roast potatoes. The surroundings are quite lovely. The service is truly wonderful. Still trying to recover from my salt overdose.

This restaurant is, unfortunately, living on its reputation. Family of 4 (adult children) one vegetarian, (who knew the score) asked for the mushroom risotto. Apparently they'd run out. The rustled up a bowl of white rice & vegetables (potatoes and runner beans) - just disgraceful. #2 and I had the lobster pasta and it was watery and overcooked. And why do they need TVs on the wall. All in all lovely spot on the harbour with fresh fish and a good wine selection (saw a few "fruits de Mer plates go by that looked good ) but think twice.