Rua 31 - Amarante

We were staying 5 star along with Michelin food but craved something sincere, simpler and local, this place was magic. Passing it looked small but inviting and we could see only one couple inside, tempted we stepped in and wow what a night. We hit it off with Paulo the owner instantly, then the couple (from Switzerland). As the night wore on Mario a famous local artist joined in, then a Japanese percussionist and her fella a French horn player, hopefully you get the point. I loved the bar, the owner, his friends, his customers and we were drinking so much I ordered Tapas to go around yep the food was great too, so much so we came back and enjoyed it one night more. Step in, be bold, enjoy.

We called in for a late lunch and asked the owner to feed us!! He produced a huge plate of cold meats, warm sausage and local cheese with olives and some fresh local bread which was lovely. To go with this we had a couple of glasses of the families own Green Wine which quickly became a couple more The service by the owner was friendly and efficient, and despite him telling us he spoke little English, he made sure we felt very at home and knew the background to his food and wine. The bill when it came excluding a tip was 20 Euros which was amazing value I'm not saying that all the food is 5 fine but for what we wanted it was brilliant and the value for money could not be bettered.

We visited on our first day, and welcomed by the owner Paulo. What a warm and friendly atmosphere. He invited us in and took our order for tapas and wine both amazing award winning sausage amazing Vinho Verde, not to be missed. We enjoyed it so much we visited again. This night was like a homecoming party, Paulo is the perfect host, he makes every one feel he is only cooking for them. This is a place to visit when you are in amarante

Popped in for a glass of wine and ended up ordering some lovely Tapas including tasty homemade game sausage, cheese and ham with warm crusty bread. Had a lovely chat with the friendly owner Paulo who was a great character and passionate about his products. Great value for Money and would recommend a visit.

I visited Amarante with two more friends and we were starving when we came across Rua 31! Right away, I was impressed by the sympathy of the owner and the simplicity and originality of the place. Very welcoming, warm and friendly. We had an excellent soup, that reminded me of Grandma 's and Bifanas . They were superb! We were presented with a local and own produced wine, Vinho Verde. No doubt, the perfect combination for our meal! Thank you for the wonderful time and caring service, definitely a place to go again next time!