It was our first time to Portugal and we had a great time in Guimarães. One of the highlights was…read moredining at Histórico. Being typical Americans, we were ready for dinner by 7 pm. It was late September when we visited and it was one of the few colder, rainy nights so we had to sit inside. However the dining area is open, warm, bright and immaculate.
We started with the cod cakes and sauteed mushrooms for starters. The cakes are not the traditional Portuguese cod fritter, they were lightly crisp and delicate and the mushrooms were rich and firm. We selected a Duro valley red (Quinta dos Castle Ares) which we loved.
I selected their Black pork loin end which had a side of a vegetable lasagna, my wife had the Black pork cheek in plum sauce with chestnuts and greens (see photos). I regret that I did not write down the Portuguese names of the dishes. But both main courses were complex and satisfying.
For vegetarians, I believe they offer the veg lasagna as a separate dish, and have other veg friendly options.
Fore desert we split the chocolate mouse, my wife had port and I had (..two..) Beirão. It was the first time I had tried that specialty and now I am a fan.
The service was excellent. We were attended properly and kindly and if there was a language barrier, one of the staff who spoke English was there to help.
I highly recommend Histórico for a lovely dining experience should you find yourself in Guimarães.