There are plenty of breakfasts around but few like these two. Between period architecture and monumental views, what were once two magnificent palaces are now two great hotels creating memorable mornings.
Here at these two palaces, the day begins with absolute attention to detail. The finest breakfasts are not just about food, there are other things to consider, such as the location, the light and the dedication of those serving.
Whether at the Pestana Palácio do Freixo, in Porto, or at the Pestana Palace Lisboa, breakfast is approached not as the most important meal of the day but rather the most important of all meals, as if every morning was a discreet celebration.
Pestana Palácio do Freixo
There are many details worth highlighting at the Pestana Palácio do Freixo, which is both a national monument and an excellent example of 18th-century, Portuguese Baroque. That said, one of the highlights about staying in this 5-star hotel in Porto is undoubtedly the breakfast. This particular meal is served in the enchanting Palatium restaurant, where architectural details abound, such as the beautiful painted ceiling and tall windows, which offer the best view of the river.
Try the creamy scrambled eggs, artisan sausages and sautéed mushrooms, in addition to a selection of charcuterie and regional cheeses. Bakery options are wonderfully crisp and super fresh, as are all the pastries, not to mention sparkling wine for those who want to turn their morning into a special occasion.
Service is attentive without being intrusive, and the view a real plus. Everything is simple and meticulous, exactly as it should be.
Pestana Palace Lisboa
The atmosphere is cosy and sophisticated in every part of the 5-star hotel in Lisbon, with spa and pool but there’s a special touch in the Palácio Valle Flor’s old ballroom. Among the gilded woodcarving and impressive frescoes, breakfast is served in this room on silver tableware, with classical music playing in the background to create the mood.
The buffet combines tropical fruit, selected pastries, hot dishes in copper frying pans – scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages and vegetarian options, not forgetting the display case for chef Inês Martins’s cakes. The highlight? The São Tomé chocolate cake, which is a tribute to the Marquis of Valle Flôr’s commercial past.
There’s also an à la carte menu – the eggs Benedict and eggs Royal are highly recommended, as are the light pancakes and waffles. On the restaurant terrace, which is surrounded by gardens classified as a national monument, there’s show cooking for those interested in making the perfect omelette, although getting the same result at home is rather unlikely.
