Tripas aos molhos

Don't forget to try this unique delicacy in the Portuguese gastronomic scene. Made with a piece of ham and some parsley leaves, wrapped in small strips of veal stomach, Tripas ao Molhos accompanied by a good Douro wine, are the motto for truly unforgettable moments at the table.

Maronesa Meat (Classified Denomination)

It is in the pastures of the Marão and Alvão mountains that Maronesa cattle are grazed. Defining itself as a rustic and indigenous breed, the 100% natural pastures it feeds on give rise to some of the tastiest, juiciest and best-textured meat in Portugal.

Covilhetes

The name “covilhete” finds its origin in the small clay mold in which it was initially cooked. It is a savory snack made from puff pastry with minced meat filling. Originally sold on the streets only on the occasion of Santo António festivities, on wicker trays and linen cloths, currently all the pastries and bakeries in Vila Real make Covilhetes daily.

Cristas de Galo

Also called “Pasteis de Toucinho”, the name “Cristas de Galo” gained more and more followers due to the format of this specialty. From conventual origin, the dough is filled with egg and almond jam. After cooking it is sprinkled with sugar.

Pitos de Santa Luzia

As well as Cristas, Pitos also have conventual origins. Made from tender dough filled with pumpkin and cinnamon, they are shaped like a small quadrangular pyramid.  

Cavacórios

Concave-shaped sweets, sold on the occasion of São Lázaro festivities (patron of the neighborhood where Casa da Carvoaria is located). Its dry dough is covered with sugar syrup, and it is common for people pour Port wine into the Cavacório for a more complete tasting experience.

Ganchas

Gancha is a traditional sweet made from caramelized sugar, associated with the festivals in honor of São Brás, who was a bishop and is considered a protector against throat diseases. For this reason, some say the shape of Gancha is inspired by the shape of the bishop's crosier used by São Brás. As a result of popular inspiration and the profane side of tradition, girls are asked to offer Pito to boys on Santa Luzia's day (December 13th), who in turn reciprocate by offering Gancha to girls on São Brás day (February 3rd). What makes this tradition so unique is the sexual nature attributed to it, due to the fact that both sweets have connotations of the male and female reproductive organs.

Vinhos

Sheltered by Marão and Alvão mountains, Vila Real has one of its main agricultural crops in vineyards, especially in the southern part of the district. The unique features and the terroir of this region led the Marquis of Pombal to establish the first Demarcated Region in the World in 1756: Douro Valley Demarcated Region. One of the best-known wines in the world was born in Vila Real, Mateus Rosé, and currently, through the expertise of Adega Cooperativa de Vila Real, red, white and fortified wines have been winning the most prestigious world wine awards.
Vila Real Cellar