Why choose Bogani Cafe over any other coffee shop in Gaia? Simple. Because it has the absolute best views of Porto, and the Dom Luis bridge! Located on the Douro River, there are, of course, plenty of cafe’s situated nearby but none of them have the spectacular views of chic Bogani — or the incredible coffee!
We recommend choosing Bogani Cafe first thing in the morning for a strong latte to help wake you up, or for an evening aperitif as you sit on the wooden terrace and watch the magnificent sunset over the Douro. The comfortable and luxurious chairs of the cafe were designed by Philippe Starck and are really rather unique.
The attention to detail in Bogani is simply mind-blowing, with outdoor heaters to keep you toasty in winter and even panoramic TV screens of the view over the river in case you can’t find a seat with a view.
The atmosphere is calm and relaxing, with chill-out music played at a low enough level that you can still have a conversation — it is especially wonderful in the evening when you can watch the entire city light up in front of you.
As for the menu, we can recommend the coffee as being some of the best in Porto — especially the macciato. If you’re travelling in Porto in the winter then they also have some specialty drinks, including irish coffee and cafe brulot (brandy, orange, cinammon), to help warm you up. In summer, try the sangria or iced teas/coffees.
Though the meal sizes are smaller than average (and a little bit more expensive than most cafes in Porto), it’s still worth eating here at least once during your time in Porto. If you have a large appetite then it would be best to visit for lunch. There is a huge range of delcious seafood, including sea-bream, Atlantic mackerel, swordtail and sardines. You can even order an octopus salad!
Finish off your meal with a small bowl of gelato — either from Bogani Cafe or from one of the nearby shops that offer it.
Bogani is one of our favourite coffee shops in Porto and our absolute favourite in Gaia. Be sure to have at least a drink here while you’re touring the area.
Typical prices: Coffees usually start from €3 and main courses from around €18.
Opening hours: Friday, Saturday — 10:00am until 1:00am. All over days — 10:00am until midnight.
How to get there: Starting in Porto, cross the Dom Luis bridge on the lower section, turning right once you cross the bridge to Gaia. Walk for five minutes and you’ll come across a large building on your right. Bogani Cafe is on the top floor and is clearly signposted. Or you can simply write down the address and hand it to a taxi driver.
Address: Bogani Cafe, Cais de Gaia; 4400-161 Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto.
Phone number: (+351) 22 374 70 70
Email address: bogani@caisdegaia.com
Reservations: Not necessary unless you’re planning on visiting for dinner at around 8pm in peak season (July).
