National gastronomy once again shined on the international scene, with a Portuguese restaurant achieving the top of European luxury distinctions. Culinary excellence, combined with the hospitality that characterizes the country, was highlighted in an event that brought together the best of the world’s hotel and restaurant industry.
The Largo do Paço restaurant, located in Casa da Calçada, in Amarante, was voted “Best Restaurant” in Europe in the Condé Nast Johansens Annual Excellence Awards. According to the digital lifestyle magazine Marketeer, the distinction, awarded during the gala held in London at the Kimpton Fitzroy hotel, crowns the recent reopening of the space and reaffirms Portugal’s position among the continent’s great luxury gastronomic destinations.
Largo do Paço: big return of a Portuguese classic
Recognized for its signature cuisine and the fusion between tradition and innovation, Largo do Paço has long been a reference for Portuguese haute cuisine.
This year’s distinction reflects not only the quality of the ingredients and the technical rigor of the teams, but also the sophisticated and welcoming environment that transforms each meal into a unique experience for everyone who visits. The award reinforces Portugal’s commitment to valuing gastronomy as one of the pillars of excellent tourism.
The Portuguese restaurant is part of the universe of Casa da Calçada Relais & Châteaux, one of the best-known historical spaces in Amarante. The location, in the heart of the city, offers a romantic and intimate setting, overlooking the Tâmega River. The combination of the building’s charm, high quality service and gastronomic creativity has attracted national and foreign visitors in search of memorable experiences.
In addition to international recognition, Largo do Paço contributes to affirming the northern interior of Portugal as a destination for wine tourism and luxury gastronomy. According to the same source, the restaurant has been strengthening partnerships with local producers and promoting contemporary Portuguese cuisine, in a balance between innovation and respect for tradition.
Six Portuguese hotels also among the best in Europe
In addition to the gastronomic success of the Portuguese restaurant mentioned above, Portugal saw six hotel units distinguished among the best in Europe. The Altis Porto Hotel, opened in 2025, was recognized as “Best New Hotel”, standing out for its modernity and elegance. The Rebello, in Vila Nova de Gaia, won in the “Best Urban Hotel” category, reinforcing the prestige of the northern region in luxury tourism.
In Madeira, Quinta da Casa Branca received the award for “Best Immersive Experience”, standing out for the intimate connection between architecture, nature and hospitality. In Cascais, the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa was distinguished as “Best for Meetings and Events”, recognizing the quality of its infrastructure and services.
Sobreiras Alentejo Country Hotel won in the “Best Pet Friendly Accommodation” category, while Gandum Village – Conscious Boutique Hotel was awarded for “Best Environmental & Sustainability Practice”, reflecting the sector’s growing commitment to ecological and responsible practices.
Portugal reinforces its position among the most prestigious luxury destinations
The ceremony, which also marked the launch of the Condé Nast Johansens Luxury Hotels Guide 2026, brought together the main names in the international hotel and restaurant industry. According to , the winners were chosen based on online votes, guest opinions and reviews from the publication’s experts.
With this set of distinctions, especially the award won by Largo do Paço, Portugal seems to consolidate itself as a reference luxury destination, capable of rivaling the best in Europe and the world, combining gastronomy, sustainability and excellent hospitality.
Portugal’s constant presence in the Condé Nast Johansens awards highlights the maturity and growing quality of the national tourism offer. From north to south, Portuguese establishments demonstrate that the country has known how to combine tradition, innovation and authenticity, winning over an increasingly demanding international audience.
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