Palatial Restaurant & Suites

As soon as you enter, you get a sense of refinement and good taste. The walls display names. At first glance, the names are meaningless, such as Maria Gomes and Rabo de Ovelha, but as you move along, the names become more familiar once you identify them as grape varieties. They catch your eye, just as the photographs hung on the walls and pieces of art scattered throughout the space. We’re in the Restaurante Palatial, in the city of Braga. A place filled with soul and sophistication, where art merges with gastronomy. In addition to this, we have the Amistad Wine, an ode to the most exclusive national and international wines; the Palatial Suites, made up of seven exquisite suites; the Sala Vigna, a room worthy of hosting 12 apostles, for a moment of leisure or work; and the Soleo Unique shop, with its concept of unique swimming pools, inspired by artist Joana Vasconcelos.
Before we start talking about the restaurant, we’d like to introduce you to the wine shop, which was created because «the aim is to have premium and very select wines», Thomas Lima, the CEO, tells us. They met some of the producers at the beginning of 2023 on a trip to ProWein (international fair). After that, they forged contacts and made their selection. And now, at Amistad Wine, you’ll find wines from Spanish producers, from Ribera del Duero, Castilla y León and Rioja; French wines and champagnes; Portuguese, Italian, Austrian, Argentinian and South African wines. We are curious about the origin of the wine shop’s name. Thomas explains: «My father came up with the name Amistad Wine about 20 years ago. It was put on hold and now the opportunity has come up to use it. He has always loved the wine business, and finally we have this wine shop which serves as a showcase for our activity, the distribution of wines, and support for the restaurant». There are gems to be found in the wine shop, on a discovery journey through wines, cheeses and cured meats and sausages.

The new fine dining concept arrives in the city of Braga

It’s time for the restaurant. Here you can enjoy truly unforgettable moments, in the heart of a unique setting, in which sensations are put to the test. Either while savouring the house dishes, or while tasting a very special wine. Every corner is characterised by defining details, such as the fireplace at the back of the room, which provides a cosy atmosphere. The setting is also made up of hardwood details, and original pieces. «Each piece was conceived by everyone, it’s a little bit mine, a little bit my father’s and also the a little bit the team’s.» Some of the objects were created by the Paula Brito studio, the interior designer. Even the glasses (handcrafted) they went the extra mile. They have a different design than usual. They are light. Fine and can be purchased at the wine shop.
The kitchen is open, so attention to detail is even more critical. When it comes to choosing what to have for dinner, you can always opt for a tasting menu (the only fine dining experience in the region), or choose à la carte. And what about the restaurant’s name? That... «was my idea. The English term palatial, which is often used for houses in Beverly Hills. Then you have the Portuguese connection, because it refers to "palato” or "palate” in English. It’s a word that works in both Portuguese and English, it’s like the palace of the palate,» he reveals.
We now cross the corridor, leading towards the toilets, and much more besides, as it has a unique scenario, because as we walk along it, we get a privileged view of the wine shop through the glass wall. We come to the Sala Vigna, a room suitable for intimate, private dinners with a glamorous atmosphere. Guests can enter through the wine shop, has a first experience before heading directly to this room: «This room will be available by reservation only. And we also have a wine tasting area. The idea is to have a distinctive offer, where you can just come for a drink and eat some tapa. This area will be open from 4pm to 7pm, while the restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner, from Tuesday to Saturday,» he tells us.

The project began in 2019 with the aim of creating a distinctive concept

But looking at this project without looking at the Palatial Suites would only be half the journey. An intimate space with contemporary architecture and elegant décor. You’ll be enchanted by the art and comfort of the seven suites, the guest kitchen, the breakfast room and the communal lounge.
Our experience ends on the terrace by the swimming pools, where the atmosphere takes us right back to a happy memory in Saint-Tropez, the place that inspired Thomas Lima, the man responsible for creating the concept. It’s a terrace overflowing with nature, where guests can feel cosy even on cooler days, thanks to the heaters incorporated into the parasols, while the music playing in the background will uplift their thoughts. «The idea is to also use the terrace space during spring/summer also for events. Let’s imagine that a car manufacturer has a model to present, they can do it here, or even do a fashion show, or a product presentation,» he explains. And without a doubt, one of the charms of this space is the tiles mural that connects to outdoor pool, a project devised by artist Joana Vasconcelos, in collaboration with the Soleo Pool. «And this is how the unique and exclusive pools came into being, which the brand now offers for sale until the end of the year. The Soleo Unique pools are pieces of art that you can dive into.»
The architectural project was designed by Mário Sequeira. Every corner of the RPI Business Centre contains works by artists, such as Joana Vasconcelos, Manuel Correia and Paulo Neves. Although Braga offers a wide range of restaurants, Thomas wanted to bring something different to the city. Maybe this is where the next Michelin star will be awarded, one of Thomas’ hopes. And don’t just take our word for it... Come and see for yourself!
As for us, we leave this place with a smile on our faces and we are sure that we will be back. Here’s a recommendation, from the Minho region to the world. A remarkable experience where you can indulge the five senses to the full.