From Suckling Pig French Toast to an Edible Cocktail, Blss.U Challenges the Senses in Porto

Source: Sapo

Near Porto Cathedral, and with access to Sé Catedral Porto Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Blss U serves its menu from 12:30 p.m. to midnight. Unusual creations such as “Chicken Popcorn,” “Suckling Pig French Toast,” and “Feijoada Croquettes,” along with cocktails inspired by the seven deadly sins, bring a sense of fun to the table

The colorful neon lights framing the wide entrance are the first sign of what is to come. As we approach the restaurant, located near Porto Cathedral, the music is initially muffled by the movement of the street. Once inside, however, it rises above the outside noise, allowing guests to focus on one thing only: having fun.

From “Suckling Pig French Toast” to a cocktail eaten with a spoon, Blss U’s new menu embraces unexpected interpretations of tradition. Created by Chef Diogo Dias, it brings together dishes such as “Chicken Popcorn,” “Feijoada Croquettes,” and “Cuttlefish Bolognese,” in a playful approach designed to surprise without losing its connection to local cuisine.

Even before reaching the table, the bar, decorated in light tones and soft woods, invites guests to explore a signature cocktail menu inspired by the seven deadly sins.

The citrusy and refreshing Greed (€10), made with ingredients including Adega Velha, turmeric cordial, and black pepper, contrasts with Lust (€13), prepared with Bacardi Carta Blanca Rum with Serra Cheese Fatwash, Beet Pickle Water, and Carrot Cordial. Sweet Gluttony (€10), meanwhile, is best saved for the end of the meal: made with 42 Below Vodka, Red Velvet Cordial, and Mascarpone Foam, it is an edible cocktail that also works well as dessert.

In the 40-seat dining area, colors and textures define a space filled with references to new ways of embracing tradition, from large lamps covered in traditional fabrics to plants, striking cushions, and artwork concealing a restroom that is worth a visit.

Following the same spirit of surprise, a new menu has now been added to the offering at Blss U, located within Se Catedral Hotel Porto, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, although it has its own independent street entrance. Available since Monday the 14th, the menu is created by Chef Diogo Dias, a native of Santa Maria da Feira, who took on the challenge of developing a playful offering that moves away from the obvious. The “menu design was inspired by the irreverence of the existing, dynamic space,” he explains, adding that the new menu, “far from being monotonous, aims to provide an experience of relaxation and fun.”

Gluttony and Coffee “With a Little Something Extra”

Drawing on traditional Portuguese cuisine and international inspirations, the new menu unfolds through bold creations that play with the senses. These include “Chicken Popcorn” (€8), “Feijoada Croquettes” (€9), XXL Codfish Cakes (€8), served with pepper chutney, and “Seafood Cream” (€12), presented in a version that visually resembles breakfast and accompanied by puffed rice served from a cereal box. Other options include “Suckling Pig French Toast” (€9), “Soft-Shell Crab Bao” (€11), and “Cuttlefish Bolognese” (€12), a creative interpretation of a recipe that marked the chef’s childhood — the Bolognese pasta prepared by his grandmother.

Guests can choose several small plates or move on to the main courses — all designed for sharing — including “Fried Codfish with Tartar Sauce” (€24), “Lemon and Cockle Rice with Steamed Sea Bass” (€22), “Beef Cheek with Sausage Paella” (€22), and “Black Pork Presa with Clam Açorda” (€24). Vegetarian options include “Chickpea, Sweet Potato, and Harissa Stew” (€17) and “Whole Roasted Cauliflower” (€16).

Finish the meal with the previously mentioned “Gluttony,” the edible cocktail, or try the “Pão de Ló” in a version with miso, Elvas plum, and green tea (€9), “Azorean Pineapple, Sake, and Rice” (€8), or the surprising “Pastel de Nata with Coffee and ‘a Little Something Extra’” (€9.50), featuring a detail that references the 1990s.

With a menu created by Diogo Dias, who recently took charge of the gastronomic offering, Blss U (Rua Chã, 52, Porto. Tel. 913831 589), which opened in 2024, also benefits from gastronomic consultancy by Chef Miguel Rocha Vieira, as do the other venues managed by AHM – Ace Hospitality Management.

It is open daily from 12:30 p.m. to midnight.