Mendi Indian Restaurant

Real Indian food in a great location in Porto

I live really close to Mendi and I think there is a tendency not to go so often to the restaurants which are closer to you. This may be the case, although the quality of the food justifies every visit. In fact, I first ate here when I was 14 years old.

Let’s start with the name. Mendi is the name for the patterns painted on the hands and feet in Indian culture. They are worn by women on special occasions like, for instance, on their wedding day. Mendi is a symbol of purity, joy and good luck.

I happen to know the owners of this restaurant and one thing I can assure you: they are from India and brought with them the magic art of flavor mixing of the Indian cuisine. Their chef and assistants are from Uttar Pradesh and they did not loose any ingredient in all the miles between that Indian state and Boavista Avenue, in Porto.

Another key point is the location. They are right in the heart of the five stars hotels area like Sheraton Porto, Tiara Park Atlantic Porto or Porto Palácio, in one of the most busy and important arteries of Porto – Avenida da Boavista. Mendi is ideal either for a business lunch or a relaxed romantic dinner.

Now, the menu. Undoubtedly, all the tandoori specialties are a must here. The Tarah Tarah Ke Kebab is done with lamb and chicken cooked in the tandoor oven. My favorite is the Rogan Josh: lamb cooked with spices, tomato and saffron. If you are a vegetarian, do not worry, because at Mendi you will find the “Vegetarian Mix Crill”, also cooked in the tandoor. Do not miss their naan bread!

Mendi is a highly recommended restaurant! Even if you are not sure about trying Indian food, the staff will be happy to help you take the first steps. After mine, I couldn’t stop!

In the same area, don’t skip a visit to Casa da Música and, further down, towards the sea, Serralves Museum and Gardens.

Another good option to have Indian food in Porto are the restaurants Real Indiana. Try them both! :)