There are creative and seasonal snacks to try at this new modern tavern in Viana do Castelo
Pacóvio has the soul of a tavern and is a breath of fresh air in the gastronomic offer of Viana do Castelo. In an informal atmosphere, small dishes are served to share, prepared with the best seasonal ingredients, paired with wine from small producers.
Driven by the desire to “bring something different from the usual” to Viana do Castelo, where they are from, Luís Magalhães and Vânia Balinha opened the doors of Pacóvio, in the city centre, in September. Luís’s experience in different hotel and restaurant concepts, from bakery to fine dining, and Vânia’s, an illustrator, event producer and “master in the art of tapas”, led them (he in the kitchen, she in the dining room) to open a space under their own name. “Pacóvio appears on our journey as a culmination of desires”, they say.
It is a small, unpretentious and welcoming tavern, with wooden tables and counter, paper placemats and crockery from various countries. On one side, a stone wall; on the other, a bright orange color, decorated with illustrations and objects typically from Minho. Basically, “a family place, where both friends and newcomers feel at home”, they say.
The kitchen serves small dishes to share, which change depending on the availability of produce. “We try to work with quality local producers. We believe it is crucial to be a bridge between them and the public.” However, the “À Bulhão”, mussels à Bulhão Pato (€6), the “Melo Kara***”, fried mushrooms with spicy fermented mayonnaise and sweet potato pickle (€5) and the “Avóbora”, roasted pumpkin with whipped cream cheese, carob, green sauce and citrus fruits” (€6) are among the most popular.
Showcasing, in a relaxed atmosphere, the best the region and the country have to offer, from food to wines from small producers, is the main mission of Luís Magalhães and Vânia Balinha. Convinced of the truth of this statement, they assure that “Life is a tavern” and use this as the restaurant’s calling card. There are “ups and downs, good and bad choices, great company, great tainadas.” Pacóvio (Rua Prior do Crato, 60, Viana do Castelo. Tel. 968994176) has 24 seats and is open on a first-come, first-served basis. It is open Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5pm to 11pm and Friday and Saturday from 5pm to midnight. It is pet friendly.
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