Christian Haas's Porto

How long have you been living in Porto?

I moved here from Paris 6 years ago, initially because of work. I developed an instant crush on the city, and that crush is still as strong as ever.

Where would you say is the ultimate spot to get a real feel for the city?

For breathtaking views over the city and the river, head to the Palacio de Cristal Park and the Jardim do Morro gardens on the other side of Eiffel’s Dom Luis bridge. Then there’s Bolhão market, which is packed with independent stallholders selling a variety of delicacies. The busy streets around that area really capture Porto’s vibe, as does enjoying a coastal walk through Porto’s most upmarket neighbourhood, Foz, where the river meets the ocean.

Which places do you find most culturally inspiring?

Nuno Centeno, Salut au Monde! and Espacio Jhannia Castro are some of my favourite galleries. What I really love is the fact that they are so unconventional. Rua Miguel Bombarda and the surrounding streets are the city’s creative hub, and that area is always a great place for a stroll. 

Which restaurant or café would you say best captures Porto’s vibe?

Esporão no Porto, which is on the ground floor of the building where I live, serves Portuguese dishes with a deliciously contemporary twist. They have some very tasty wines, too. I hang out there once a week with friends. 
Then there’s Solar Moinho de Vento, which is classy and chic. My favourite dish there is Bolinhos de Bacalhau served with tomato rice. 

Which neighbourhood instantly springs to mind when we say “Shopping in Porto”?

The Cedofeita and Bonfim neighbourhoods with their small shops and innovative concept stores. They’re a great place to find practical household items, hardware, ceramics, young Portuguese design brands and, of course, food.

Do you have any secret addresses you’d care to share?

If you want to escape from the city on a sunny day, take a short train (or taxi) ride to Aguda, a small village just south of Porto. The seafront is peppered with lots of gorgeous little unpretentious cafes and restaurants.

Where is the best place to stay for anyone keen to explore the city? (favourite neighbourhood and/or hotel)

I’d recommend finding a place to stay around Aliados, Cedofeita or Bonfim. All three neighbourhoods are very central, making them the perfect base for exploring the city. Lots of new hotels are opening at the moment, but I’d recommend staying somewhere smaller, such as the ROSA ET AL Townhouse or Tipografia do Conto.

Which design piece can only be picked up in Porto?

Down my street, you’ll find one of old Porto’s true gems: the Carvalho, Batista & Cª., Sa hardware shop (Rua do Almada 79). It manufactures and retails door handles and accessories designed by famous architects, such as Álvaro Siza Vieira. Other places well worth a visit are the brush shop, Escovaria de Belomonte, and the chic soap store on Rua das Flores, Claus Porto.