In the far north, Portuguese cuisine is generally celebrated more for its traditional, hearty fare than contemporary cuisine, Yet, Inato Bistrô, in Braga, offers something refreshingly refined. The chic and intimate restaurant stands out for its modern approach to Portuguese gastronomy — so much so that it’s earned the coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction, recognizing exceptional value for money.
The name Inato plays on the Portuguese word for “innate,” perhaps a nod to the natural talent of chefs Miguel Rodrigues and Tiago Costa. But it is intended to draw from “in ato” — or “in act” — reflecting the restaurant’s concept of a four-act dining experience. Each course (ato) is a chapter in a culinary narrative built on fresh, local ingredients and modern techniques.
The experience begins with Ato I — a welcoming couvert of housemade focaccia and seed bread, served with Azorean butter and creamy hummus. Ato II introduces diners to the chefs’ creativity, with options like delicate oxtail between two slices of fresh focaccia topped with a truffle sauce, and shrimp tacos using petite corn tortillas grilled shrimp, shredded lettuce and a spicy mayonnaise. In Ato III, the mains steal the spotlight: the Alentejo pork presa on a bed of sautéed mushrooms and apples, while the codfish with chickpeas, tomato and a low-temperature egg is a delight. Whether you’re a carnivore, pescatarian or vegetarian, there’s plenty of choice on the menu.
Dessert — Ato IV — closes the meal on a high note. The date cake with salted caramel and mascarpone cream is as indulgent as it is unforgettable.
The service at Inato matches the cuisine: the staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic about guiding guests through the menu.
The space itself is equally considered — a modern bistrô with clean lines, warm woods, and thoughtful design details. A cozy side room hosts larger groups around a striking wood-edged table beneath glowing Tom Dixon globular copper pendants, while a small bar area adds an inviting touch in back.
At Inato Bistrô, tradition and innovation dance gracefully together — a performance you’ll want to encore.
For more information, visit the Inato website.
Inato
Praça do Município, 7
Braga
Phone: +351 939 588 277
E-mail: geral@inatobistro.pt
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 12:00 to 14:30 and 19:00 to 22:30
Photos: ©Portugal Confidential
