Tiny place, very cosy, nice atmosphere, staff are very helpful and kind, very professional. The food is unbelievable. It is exactly what it presents itself to be, traditional dishes with a modern twist. We had a beef profiterole, scallops and as mains chicken supreme and beef cheek. It was fantastic. All the components in the dishes were complimenting each other, the horseradish sauce was brilliant. We also had a nice bottle if Italian primitivo, great wine selection overall. Its a bit pricey but totally worth it. Also what really pleased me is that service charge was not added onto the bill. You were not expected to pay it, which obviously makes you happy to add it on considering the quality of the service. One thing that stood out to me were these tiny towels in the bathroom. Gave the place a bit of a fancy kick. Definitely would recommend.
Overview
Porto Restaurant is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, a charming village located by the picturesque Lake Windermere in the Lake District. Located at 3 Ash Street, this delightful eatery offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary dining, making it an ideal spot for locals and tourists alike.
From the moment you step inside Porto Restaurant, you’re welcomed by its warm, inviting atmosphere. The intimate setting, paired with the modern decor and cozy lighting, creates a space where you can truly relax and enjoy your meal. The staff is friendly and attentive, always happy to offer recommendations or help you navigate the menu, which is filled with mouth-watering options.
The menu at Porto Restaurant features a range of expertly crafted dishes that showcase the best of local and seasonal ingredients. From fresh seafood to hearty meats and vegetarian delights, there’s something for every palate. One standout dish is the signature seafood risotto, packed with plump prawns, mussels, and delicate scallops, all perfectly cooked to retain their natural flavors. The rich, creamy sauce adds the perfect finishing touch to the dish.
If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, the slow-cooked lamb shank is a must-try. Served with roasted vegetables and a rich gravy, the lamb falls off the bone with ease and offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience. For those who prefer a lighter meal, the roasted vegetable salad with feta and balsamic glaze is a fresh and flavorful option that’s both filling and refreshing.
In addition to the exceptional food, Porto Restaurant also boasts a carefully curated wine list that pairs beautifully with the dishes on offer. Whether you prefer a crisp white wine to accompany your seafood or a full-bodied red to complement a rich steak, the knowledgeable staff is always happy to guide you to the perfect pairing. The restaurant also serves a selection of craft beers, ideal for those who prefer something more casual but still high-quality.
The atmosphere at Porto Restaurant is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you're celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a quiet dinner. The cozy dining area is ideal for an intimate evening, while the outdoor seating area offers a lovely option during warmer months, providing views of the surrounding countryside. The overall vibe is relaxed, making it the perfect setting for both casual gatherings and romantic dinners.
Porto Restaurant is known for its high level of consistency and quality. Reviews from diners consistently praise the restaurant for its impeccable service, outstanding food, and cozy ambiance. Many visitors also comment on the restaurant’s attention to detail and its dedication to using locally sourced ingredients. It’s clear that the team behind Porto Restaurant takes great pride in offering an unforgettable dining experience.
For anyone planning a visit to the Lake District, Porto Restaurant should undoubtedly be on your list. Whether you’re craving a comforting plate of pasta, indulging in decadent desserts, or simply enjoying a glass of wine by the fire, this restaurant provides a top-notch experience that’s hard to beat.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Dine-in ✓ Delivery ✓ TakeawayHighlights
✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Assistive hearing loop ✓ Wheelchair-accessible car parkOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Romantic ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Lunch reservations recommended ✓ Reservations required ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Excellent lunch here with four family members; we sat upstairs and had sandwiches (halloumi, chicken goujons) and Cumbrian rarebit from the menu - all with chips. The chips are superb, as are the sandwiches. Everyone enjoyed their food. Especially nice to have a dressed salad with olives. Gorgeous food and excellent service. I am fussy, according to my husband, and I would recommend this place to eat without hesitation.
Absolutely a gem! have dined here twice this week and can honestly recommend the food and great service we received, just finished Sunday lunch and it was fabulous, definitely one to go to you won’t be disappointed
Great restaurant, I booked a table for my partners birthday. They decorated the table with a few birthday bits which was lovely of them and they didn’t have to do! The food just added to the experience, the belly pork and Cumbrian chicken was absolutely delightful. To finish things off, the brownie and ice cream was superb. Would recommend here to anyone visiting the Lakes! Thank you guys!
We had a fantastic dining experience at Porto Restaurant! The food was excellent across the board—flavorful, fresh, and beautifully presented. The mixed kofta stood out with its perfectly seasoned meat and juicy texture. The risotto was rich and creamy, cooked to perfection, and the grilled chicken sandwich was a satisfying choice—light yet full of flavor. What truly made the visit special was discovering their impressive kids’ menu. It was a nice surprise to find such a well-thought-out selection for little ones, offering both variety and quality—a rare find in many restaurants. Overall, a great spot for families or anyone looking to enjoy delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere. We’ll definitely be back!
Had an absolutely gorgeous lunch with my parents—it was my mom’s birthday. Our server was the cool Spanish guy, he was extremely considerate! Food was awesome and very reasonably priced considering its prime location in the town.
Well presented food and pleasant service. Went here as the places on the waterside were crowded and we wanted something a bit more than pub grub. Particularly enjoyed the beef bourguinion profiterole.
Wow, the food, ambiance and drinks were delicious. The cheese souffle starter was exquisite. I couldn't get enough of it. For mains, I had the pork, which was delicious and the other had steaks and all enjoyed them. The wines were excellent, as was the after dinner port. The desserts were also a hit with us all. Excellent atmosphere and our server was excellent and friendly. Highly recommend.