Porto: Fado Show & Dinner – A Night of Fado & Fine Dining
Imagine spending an evening in Porto where you’re treated to live Fado music, delicious regional cuisine, and carefully selected Portuguese wines — all in a cozy spot at Lemon Plaza, WOW. For around $58 per group, you get a memorable taste of Portugal’s soulful music and hearty flavors. The event kicks off at 8 pm, making it a perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.
What we love about this experience is how authentic the Fado performances feel, especially with a tribute to the legendary Amália Rodrigues that rewards fans of traditional Portuguese music. The thoughtfully curated meal adds a flavorful layer to the night, with regional dishes that showcase Portugal’s culinary soul. Plus, the pairing of regional wines enhances the atmosphere, turning an ordinary dinner into a cultural celebration.
A potential consideration is that the venue is a seated event with tables joined together, which may influence privacy or comfort for some guests. Also, since the tour is conducted in Portuguese, non-Portuguese speakers might find the commentary less accessible unless they’re familiar with the language or have prior knowledge of Fado.
This experience suits travelers eager to dive into local culture through music, cuisine, and wine. If you appreciate live performances that highlight tradition, and you’re looking for an intimate, authentic setting, this tour is a perfect fit.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Fado: Live performances cover traditional to contemporary styles, including a tribute to Amália Rodrigues.
- Regional Cuisine: Enjoy a three-course Portuguese dinner with regional dishes and wine pairings.
- Cultural Atmosphere: A cozy venue that immerses you in the soulful spirit of Portugal.
- Wine Pairings: Three Portuguese wines complement each course, elevating the tasting experience.
- Reserve & Flexibility: Book in advance with a pay-later option—cancel 24 hours prior for a full refund.
- Authentic Experience: Hosted by The World of Wine (WOW), focusing on genuine culture.
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A Detailed Look at the Experience
Location & Setting
Held at Lemon Plaza in WOW, this venue acts as a welcoming portal into the heart of Portuguese music and food. The setting is designed for intimacy, allowing you to really feel connected with the performers and other guests. It’s a seated dinner, so you’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early to find your spot and settle in comfortably.
The Fado Performances
The highlight of the evening is the live Fado concert, which features four musical moments capturing everything from classic to modern styles. The performances include a tribute to Amália Rodrigues, the iconic figure who essentially shaped modern Fado. According to reviews, the singing and guitar playing are top-notch, with Cristina—the singer—being particularly praised. As one guest put it, “The Fado and dinner were excellent,” indicating that the musical aspect hits the right note.
The performances are in Portuguese, which might be a consideration for non-Portuguese speakers, but the emotion conveyed transcends language barriers. The live music creates a captivating, soulful atmosphere that makes you feel part of Portuguese tradition.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Dinner Experience
The meal is a thoughtfully prepared three-course dinner highlighting regional flavors. It begins with appetizers like cod fritters, artisan bread, and rojõezinhos with pickles, paired with Sílica White 2023 from the Douro Valley. The emphasis on authentic regional dishes means you’ll get a genuine taste of Portugal’s culinary heritage.
For the main course, tender slow-cooked veal confit accompanied by Mirandela alheira sausage, potato purée, broccoli, and confit cherry tomatoes offers a hearty, satisfying bite. The wine pairing continues with São Lourenço Tinto 2019 from Bairrada, which complements the rich flavors.
To finish, a creamy dessert of fresh crème fraîche, caramelized pecans, and red berries provides a sweet, satisfying conclusion. This is paired with Croft Reserve Tawny NV Port, a classic Portuguese wine that enhances the dessert’s richness.
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The Value and Experience
At $58 per group, the cost covers the entire evening: dinner, wine, and a live cultural performance. The inclusion of three wines for pairing adds value, especially since the wines are regional specialties. The reserved seating ensures you won’t be left standing and gives the event a more intimate feel.
Practical Details
- The event begins at 8 pm, so plan to arrive a little early.
- Vegetarian options are available on request, making it accessible for different dietary needs.
- The event is in Portuguese, which enhances authenticity but may limit understanding for non-speakers.
- Smoking and flash photography are not allowed, respecting the performers and atmosphere.
- Cancellation is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, ideal if your plans shift.
What Past Guests Say
Reviewers have consistently praised the quality of the food and wine—”excellent and generous”—and the musicians. One guest specifically mentioned the “very good” guitarists and singer Cristina, which suggests the performance is both skilled and engaging. A minor critique from a guest was that joined tables might feel less private but didn’t detract much from the overall enjoyment.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is perfect for music lovers who want to experience authentic Fado in a cozy, intimate setting. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy Portuguese cuisine and regional wines, especially if you’re seeking a cultural evening that combines live music with a hearty meal. Perfect for couples, small groups, or travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Porto’s musical soul.
The Sum Up
For anyone visiting Porto and craving an authentic cultural experience, this Fado dinner in Lemon Plaza offers an excellent combination of live music, regional dishes, and regional wines at a reasonable price. It’s a chance to see Portugal’s famed musical genre performed live, complemented by a well-curated meal that highlights local flavors.
While the language might be a barrier for non-Portuguese speakers, the passion and emotion of the performances compensate beautifully. The setting is intimate enough to feel special, yet casual enough to be relaxed and enjoyable. The inclusion of wine pairings and a thoughtfully prepared menu makes this a value-packed evening.
This tour suits travelers who are eager to connect with Portugal’s soul through its music, food, and wine. If you appreciate quality performances and authentic regional cuisine, this is an experience you won’t forget.
FAQ
Is the event suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested in advance, ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal.
What time does the event start?
The event begins at 8 pm, so plan to arrive about 15 minutes early to settle in and find your seat.
Are the performances in Portuguese?
Yes, the shows are conducted in Portuguese, but the emotional delivery makes the music understandable beyond language.
Does the price include drinks besides the wines?
No, the included beverages are the three Portuguese wines paired with each course. Additional drinks are not included.
Is the seating arrangement private?
The seating is reserved and involves tables joined together, which may limit privacy but fosters a communal atmosphere.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the event for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.
Is the event suitable for large groups?
The experience is designed for small groups, creating an intimate setting that allows you to really feel part of the performance.
Is there any dress code?
There’s no formal dress code, but smart casual attire is appropriate for an enjoyable, relaxed evening.
In summary, this Fado dinner experience in Porto offers a compelling look into Portugal’s musical and culinary traditions. It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting a genuine, intimate night out that highlights the country’s soul — music, food, and wine all rolled into one memorable evening.
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