Euskalduna Studio in Porto: A Culinary Symphony of Innovation and Intimacy
Porto, Portugal’s vibrant second city, is renowned for its rich culinary traditions and cuttingedge gastronomy. Among its most distinguished establishments is Euskalduna Studio, a restaurant that defies conventional dining with its innovative approach to food and unparalleled intimacy. My recent visit to Euskalduna Studio was not just a meal but a transformative experience that seamlessly blended art, flavor, and storytelling, orchestrated by the visionary Chef Vasco Coelho Santos.
Euskalduna Studio’s philosophy is rooted in creating a sensory journey that pushes the boundaries of traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant’s name, “Euskalduna,” meaning “Basque” in Basque language, reflects Chef Vasco’s deep respect for the Basque culinary heritage, where he trained and drew significant inspiration. However, the “Studio” component embodies the creative freedom that defines this establishment.
Euskalduna Studio operates on a singular concept: every meal is a dialogue between chef and guest, where each dish tells a story. The restaurant’s open kitchen design invites diners to witness the artistry firsthand, breaking down barriers between those who create and those who consume.
Chef Vasco Coelho Santos: A Maverick of Portuguese Gastronomy
Chef Vasco Coelho Santos is a culinary innovator with a background that bridges global influences and local traditions. After gaining experience in worldrenowned kitchens, including Mugaritz in Spain, he returned to Porto with a vision to revolutionize Portuguese dining.
“I want to surprise, to break conventions,” Chef Vasco explained when he greeted us at the start of our meal. His culinary philosophy is rooted in the idea of pushing limits while respecting the essence of his ingredients. At Euskalduna Studio, he has achieved this vision through meticulous attention to detail and an everevolving menu that is as bold as it is refined.
Dining Experience
Located in Porto’s vibrant Baixa district, Euskalduna Studio is discreet and understated from the outside. Inside, the restaurant’s design is intimate and modern, seating just 16 guests around a central counter that offers an unfiltered view of the kitchen. The space exudes warmth, with wooden accents, soft lighting, and an atmosphere of quiet anticipation.
This intimate setting fosters a unique connection between the diners and the chefs, transforming the act of eating into a collaborative experience. From the moment I stepped in, it was clear that Euskalduna Studio was not just about food; it was about immersion and interaction.
Euskalduna Studio offers a tasting menu of approximately 10 to 12 courses, with each dish crafted to highlight Portugal’s seasonal and local ingredients. The menu changes frequently, reflecting the rhythms of nature and the creativity of Chef Vasco’s team.
The meal began with a series of amusebouches that were both playful and profound. One of the menu’s showstoppers was “Aged Yellowtail", which is grilled over charcoal. The fish was cooked to perfection, its meat tender and flavorful. It was paired with an wondrerful sauce that added a bright acidity, elevating the dish to new heights.
Euskalduna Studio’s wine program is as thoughtfully curated as its menu. Each course was paired with a wine that not only complemented the flavors but also told a story of Portugal’s diverse wine regions. From crisp Alvarinhos to robust Douro reds, the pairings enhanced the meal’s narrative, creating a seamless interplay between food and drink. For those seeking alternatives, the restaurant also offers a nonalcoholic pairing featuring housemade infusions and juices, too.
The service at Euskalduna Studio was exemplary, striking a perfect balance between professionalism and warmth. The chefs themselves presented many of the dishes, explaining their inspiration and preparation. This direct interaction added a layer of intimacy that is rare in fine dining. The staff’s passion for their craft was palpable, and their attention to detail ensured that every aspect of the meal—from the pacing to the table settings—was flawless.
Euskalduna Studio is a canvas where Chef Vasco Coelho Santos and his team paint a vivid portrait of contemporary Portuguese gastronomy. Every element—from the setting to the service to the food itself—is designed to engage, surprise, and delight. For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Porto, Euskalduna Studio offers a journey through Portugal’s culinary landscape that is as innovative as it is intimate. It is a celebration of tradition and creativity, a testament to the transformative power of food, and a reminder of why Porto is one of the world’s most exciting culinary destinations.
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