Porto, a city celebrated for its historic port wine lodges and cobbled riverside streets, has a new destination that every wine and food lover will want to explore. Matriarca, nestled in the heart of Porto, is more than a wine bar or dining space; it’s a place where tradition meets modern sophistication, and where the joy of sharing food and wine takes center stage.
At the heart of Matriarca lies a story of family, heritage, and passion for wine. Inspired by Beatriz Leitão Carvalhosa Atkinson, the original matriarch of the Symington family, Matriarca embodies the spirit of warmth, generosity, and joyful gatherings that defined her life.
The interiors of Matriarca are a masterclass in blending history with modern elegance, thanks to James Thurston Waterworth, renowned for his visionary approach to design. Every detail, from repurposed materials to vintage décor, reflects the rich narrative of Port wine: rooted in tradition yet continually evolving.
Matriarca’s Wine Bar is vibrant and inviting, offering an all-day menu centered around Port wine by the glass and a variety of sharing plates. Guests can enjoy live music, community events, and self-guided wine flight experiences, making it one of Porto’s most dynamic wine and dining experiences.
For those seeking a more intimate exploration, the Cellar Shop evokes the feeling of wandering through a private cellar at someone’s home.
The Dining Room at Matriarca brings together heritage Portuguese cuisine and innovative English influences, creating a unique gastronomic dialogue. From private dinners to special events, the menu is complemented by a diverse selection of Portuguese and international wines, all set in a 19th-century-inspired environment that celebrates both British and Portuguese design influences.
Matriarca also introduces The Attic Bar, an exclusive cocktail space where locals and tourists can discover creative Port wine cocktails and classic drinks in a sophisticated, intimate setting. With an emphasis on events, corporate gatherings, and team-building experiences, this bar reflects Porto’s growing reputation as a city where tradition and contemporary lifestyle meet.
For those eager to deepen their knowledge, the Wine Academy offers hands-on workshops, creative wine experiences, and guest speaker sessions with industry experts. From School of Port programs to annual educational offerings, the Academy positions Matriarca as Porto’s hub for wine education and appreciation.
Whether you are a local wine enthusiast or a visitor seeking an unforgettable culinary journey, Matriarca offers a holistic Porto experience. From intimate tastings and wine flights to innovative cocktails, heritage cuisine, and private events, it is a destination where history, design, and gastronomy converge to create memories that linger long after the last glass is poured.