Real Indiana Cais de Gaia

Indian food and Ribeira do Porto views

I must advise that my review is biased, as I love Indian food. Indian cuisine, with all its colors, flavors and smells is always a feast for the senses, but at Real Indiana it becomes a whole gastronomic experience combined with an exquisite atmosphere. Tastefully decorated by Paulo Lobo, a Portuguese designer, Real Indiana is a fusion of oriental taste and a modern and refined design.

Of course there is a wide variety of specialties on the menu, but for starters, what I love the most is the Naan. It is, of course, a very typical Indian kind of bread and Real Indiana does in the traditional tandoor oven. I remember that on my first visit to this restaurant I asked for a suggestion and took it: I ordered the Chicken Tikka Masala, a very soft combination of chicken and yoghurt – it is really good, but then I started enjoying more vibrant spicy dishes, like the Lamb Madras, which sauce is made of pepper, garlic and chilli. Other frequently ordered dishes are the Prawn Curry – and Real Indiana’s curry is really great – and the Tandoori Mixed grill, a mix of meat marinated in yoghurt and mild seasoning.

I would say the medium price is about €30 per person – it is really worth the price for the experience of senses you get. Keep an eye on their website as some events take place and some special menus become available, like on Valentine’s day, New Year’s eve party or even a Bollywood party.

Another thing that stands out in this restaurant is its location by the Douro river. Real Indiana is perfect for a business meeting at lunch as well as for a romantic dinner overlooking the river and the Ribeira do Porto city lights. Highly recommended!

The same family owns two more restaurants in Portugal. The brand new Real Indiana Baixa do Porto and one more in Lisbon, at Parque das Nações.

As long you are in Cais de Gaia, don’t miss the chance to visit one of the Port Wine cellars, like Grahams.