Porto: Fado Show & Dinner: A Night of Fado & Fine Dining

Travelers craving a taste of Portugal’s soulful music and delicious cuisine will find this Fado show with dinner at Lemon Plaza, WOW in Porto, an experience that’s both authentic and immersive. With a reputation for engaging performances and regional flavors, this tour offers a window into Portugal’s cultural heart in a cozy, welcoming setting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the live Fado performances ebb from traditional to modern styles, including a heartfelt tribute to Amália Rodrigues, Portugal’s legendary Fado singer. Second, the authentic regional dishes paired with carefully selected Portuguese wines elevate the evening beyond just entertainment. And third, the reserved seating and seamless flow make it a stress-free way to enjoy Porto’s vibrant cultural scene.

A potential consideration is that the experience is strictly seated and in Portuguese, so non-Portuguese speakers might benefit from prior knowledge or a guide’s explanation. Still, the captivating music and flavors make this ideal for those eager to dive into Portugal’s musical and culinary traditions.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, taste-rich evening that combines music, food, and wine in a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Fado performances range from traditional to contemporary styles, including special tributes.
• Regional Portuguese dishes are thoughtfully prepared, showcasing local flavors.
• Wine pairings include three Portuguese wines, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Reserved seating at Lemon Plaza ensures comfort and a good view of the stage.
• The experience is family-friendly and accessible, with vegetarian options available.
• It’s a value-rich experience at $58, offering a full evening of culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Evening in Porto’s Lemon Plaza: What to Expect

Authentic Fado in a Memorable Setting

This experience takes place in Lemon Plaza at WOW, starting at 8 pm, perfect for a relaxed evening after exploring Porto. The live Fado show features four musical moments, offering a comprehensive look at this uniquely Portuguese genre that’s deeply emotional and often poetic. You’ll hear performances that span from traditional songs rooted in Lisbon’s neighborhoods to contemporary adaptations, making it a dynamic show.

A notable highlight is the tribute to Amália Rodrigues, probably Portugal’s most famous Fado singer, whose influence still echoes today. Reviewers mention Cristina, the Fado singer, delivering a very good performance that captures the soul of the music — as Rui Manuel Santos noted, “The Fado and dinner were excellent,” adding that the singers and guitarists contribute significantly to the evening’s charm.

An Authentic Portuguese Dinner

The culinary component is equally impressive. Expect a three-course meal emphasizing local ingredients and regional dishes. Appetizers include cod fritters, artisan bread, and rojõezinhos with pickles — all perfect starters that set the tone for the meal. The main course features slow-cooked veal confit paired with Mirandela alheira, potato purée, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes, showcasing the variety and richness of Portuguese cuisine.

The dinner is complemented by wine pairings with Sílica White 2023 from the Douro Valley and São Lourenço Tinto 2019 from Bairrada, both carefully chosen to enhance each course. Guests consistently praise the generous portions and quality of the food and wine, with reviewers like Maria de Fatima Fernandes mentioning, “The food and wine were excellent and generous.”

Indulgent Dessert & Port Wine

Finish your night with a silky crème fraîche infused with caramelized pecans and red berries, paired with a glass of Croft Reserve Tawny NV Port wine. This sweet ending amplifies the evening’s cozy, indulgent feel, leaving you savoring the combination of music, flavors, and port wine.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details & Experience Highlights

The Venue & Atmosphere

Lemon Plaza’s intimate setting creates a cozy, personal vibe that makes you feel part of a special gathering rather than a tourist spectacle. The reserved seating means you don’t need to worry about where you’ll end up, and the stage positioning provides good views for everyone.

Group Size & Duration

The experience is designed for groups of up to one — making it an ideal, private night out or a romantic date. The entire evening, from 8 pm start to end, is paced comfortably, allowing you to savor each moment without feeling rushed.

Price & Value

At $58 per group, this experience offers exceptional value. For that, you receive a three-course dinner, wine pairings, a live Fado concert, and reserved seating. Considering the quality of food, the authenticity of the music, and the intimate environment, it’s a worthwhile investment into authentic Portuguese culture.

Accessibility & Other Considerations

The event is in Portuguese, so although the music is universally captivating, non-Portuguese speakers might appreciate some prior context or a brief explanation. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and guests are asked to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

Important Rules

Smoking and flash photography are not permitted — a common rule for preserving the ambiance and respecting the performers.

Authenticity and Review Insights

The reviews reflect genuine appreciation: one guest, Rui, called the Fado and dinner “excellent,” though he suggested tables might be better if they weren’t joined for a more intimate experience. Maria praised the generous portions and excellent wine, and highlighted the quality of performances.

This feedback signals that the experience delivers on its promise of authenticity and value. The performers’ skill, the tasty and well-paired dishes, and the comfortable setting combine to create a memorable night.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits those who want to experience Portugal’s musical soul in an authentic setting, paired with regional cuisine and good wine. It’s ideal for culture lovers, foodies, and couples seeking a romantic evening. If you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group wanting a cozy, curated night out, the reserved seating and intimate setting will suit you well.

The Sum Up

The Fado Show & Dinner at Lemon Plaza in Porto offers a genuine taste of Portugal’s musical and culinary traditions. The combination of live performances, regional dishes, and carefully selected wines provides a well-rounded cultural experience for a reasonable price.

Travelers who enjoy authentic, meaningful experiences—rather than touristy gimmicks—will appreciate this evening’s warm atmosphere and high-quality entertainment. It’s best suited for those who want to connect with local culture, savor regional flavors, and enjoy a relaxed, intimate setting.

While non-Portuguese speakers might wish for some translation, the emotional power of the music and the delicious local dishes transcend language barriers. Overall, it’s a wonderful way to spend an evening in Porto that will leave you with lasting memories of Portugal’s soul.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring all guests can enjoy the meal.

How long does the event last?
It starts at 8 pm and typically includes a three-course dinner along with four musical moments, making for an evening of approximately two hours.

Are the wines included in the price?
Yes, three Portuguese wines are paired with the meal, enhancing the flavors of each course.

Is there reserved seating?
Yes, your ticket guarantees reserved seating at Lemon Plaza, offering a comfortable view of the stage.

Can I book this experience last-minute?
Yes, reservations can be made with the option to pay later, and cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While primarily designed for adults, it’s suitable for families with older children who appreciate music and food, but keep in mind the event is in Portuguese.

Are there any rules I should know?
Smoking and flash photography are not allowed during the show to preserve the ambiance and respect the performers.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is appropriate, but there’s no strict dress code—comfort and a touch of elegance are encouraged.

You can check availability for your dates here: