On a visit to Porto three years ago, I came across a culinary gem of a bistro, where the unsurpassed hospitality that I experienced will live long in the memory. Casa Mariazinha opposite Hotel da Bolsa, R. Belomonte 2 - 4, is a jewel that sparkled during my stay. Mein host Antonio welcomed us with warmth and a greeting that was unconventional, but ultimately rewarding. "We do not serve beer or fizzy juice, all drink here is either from the grape or the tap. There is no set menu, all dishes are cooked by my wife, and all ingredients are freshly purchased today at the market." What followed was an extravaganza of Portugese/Brazilian cuisine, lovingly prepared, and accompanied by an array of local wines. Angels danced on my tongue as the selection of Douro wines, orchestrated an explosion of taste sensations with the truly remarkable food. Antonio regailed us with tales of his love of Portugese wine and his in depth knowledge of the local grapes, proffering vintage port and cheeses to die for.
The atmosphere was cosy, homely and unobtrusive with the accent on sociability in an environment of respect for local culture and taste. Not seating many Casa Mariazinha allows Antonio to attend the tables like a man entertaining in his own home. On each occaision our stay lasted into the small hours and I left with a heavy heart and a full stomach to Scotland thinking "This is how it should be done."
If you are ever in Porto do not miss this place, by far the best place I have ever eaten.