Nestled in one of Porto's residential neighborhoods on a quiet side street is a hidden gem and an unexpected surprise, a true New York-style pizzeria. We knew we were in for a great experience when our Uber driver told us that he's constantly taking people through the maze of winding streets for pizza at Da Mattia.
The look and feel of the place is classic, and you know you're about to have some great slices just by taking in the wonderful aroma coming from the pizza ovens, taking a moment to remind yourself that you're 5400 miles from Manhattan. You instantly feel at home in this family-run restaurant, with the staff being incredibly friendly, patiently answering all of our questions as we did our best to navigate the Portuguese menu. (Don't worry - you already know all the Italian words!)
We started with the mozzarella, garlic, and oregano focaccia, an incredibly tasty white pizza - so incredibly tasty that we ordered a second one after polishing off the first one. Their pizza Margherita - "la bella Margherita" - is as classic as classic gets, just perfect.
The owner is quite a personable young man and is very proud of his restaurant (as well he should be). We chatted with him quite a bit while we were waiting for our Uber back to the hotel, and he's got some wonderful plans for expanding the restaurant and setting up an outdoor garden in the back. With pizza this good, it's no wonder that so many locals and visitors alike find their way through those winding streets to Da Mattia to have some of what's definitely the best pizza in Porto... and quite possibly the best in all of Portugal! read more