Once known mainly for its fishing boats and the scent of grilled sardines drifting through its streets, Matosinhos is stepping confidently into the global spotlight. The seaside city has been officially named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, joining a select group of destinations recognized for their cultural and creative contributions to food and design.

This new title celebrates Matosinhos not just as a place to eat well, but as a city that lives and breathes its culinary heritage. Here, the sea and the table are inseparable. Generations of families have worked along the docks, shaping a culture built on authenticity, craftsmanship, and care. These values still define the city’s food scene today.

A City Shaped by the Sea

Matosinhos’ story begins with the ocean. From the morning fish markets to the open grills that line its narrow streets, the city’s identity is rooted in salt air and seaside rhythm. Over time, its humble fishing traditions have evolved into something more — a dynamic community of chefs, designers, and local producers blending old-world know-how with fresh ideas.

The result is a food culture that feels both timeless and new. You will find traditional seafood tascas next to elegant restaurants experimenting with sustainable ingredients and modern technique. Across it all, there is a sense of continuity, a quiet pride in doing things the right way.

Beyond the Plate

For travelers and locals alike, the recognition goes far beyond gastronomy. It reflects a broader creative energy that is shaping Matosinhos into one of Porto’s most interesting neighborhoods. Food, design, and lifestyle come together naturally here.

From cafés tucked inside restored warehouses to minimal coastal-inspired interiors in boutique hotels, the city’s visual language mirrors its culinary one. It is bright, textured, and grounded in place. It is a destination that invites you to slow down, taste, explore, and live a little more intentionally by the sea.

Looking Ahead

With its new UNESCO status, Matosinhos is poised for an exciting chapter. Expect more collaborations between chefs, artists, and designers, new food experiences that highlight sustainability, and a growing appreciation for the everyday rituals that make this coastal city so special.

Whether it is a plate of grilled sardines shared at sunset or a quiet morning coffee by the port, Matosinhos proves that food is never just food. It is a way of living and a reflection of everything this city stands for.