Café · Bistro · Kitchen
Gastronomy
We follow a true farm-to-table philosophy, growing much of what we serve in our own horta and gardens.
From crisp vegetables picked at sunrise to fragrant herbs harvested just before service, our menus are a celebration of freshness, flavour, and respect for the land.
Every dish begins in the soil
Our Roots
From the horta, to the table
Long before the 16th century, the Benedictine monks understood that true well-being lies in nurturing both body and mind. At the Convento de São João de Cabanas, they cultivated their own gardens, ensuring that every meal was crafted from the freshest produce grown on their land — a reflection of care, balance, and respect for nature.
Today, we honour this legacy. Guided by the rhythm of the seasons and by our horta, we embrace a sustainable philosophy that celebrates simplicity and authenticity. We combine our own harvest with carefully selected ingredients from local producers and farmers, supporting our community while ensuring exceptional quality and purity of flavour.
From the field to the table, every dish is an expression of harmony, tradition, and taste.
Blue Kitchen
Morning rituals and culinary creativity
The Blue Kitchen is the heart of the Convento — a bright and welcoming space where guests begin their day. Breakfast is prepared with locally sourced ingredients, fresh pastries and seasonal produce from our horta. Beyond breakfast, guests may take private masterclasses with our chef or join immersive cooking sessions. Warm, elegant, and full of character, it is where the simple act of cooking becomes something truly special.
Breakfast for house guests · masterclasses & private dinners on request
Discover the Blue Kitchen
April — October
Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 – 17:00 · open air, by the river
On the Caminho de Santiago
An open-air retreat under the trees, where nature sets the pace.
Café de Cabanas
April — October
Café de Cabanas is a seasonal, open-air dining retreat along the storied Caminho de Santiago, welcoming pilgrims, travellers, and locals from spring through fall. Nestled in a tranquil riverside garden, the café offers a relaxed, sun-dappled setting where nature sets the pace.
April–October · Wed–Sun 9:00–17:00 · reservations +351 935 863 342
The winter
A winter table, by the fire
Magnolia Bistro
- Fireside & candlelight
- Sharing plates within the historic stone walls.
- From the horta
- What the cold season gives, cooked the Benedictine way.
- Wednesday — Sunday
- Dinner 19:30 – 22:00
Join us at the table
A place laid for you
Stay with us and let every meal begin in the garden, or reserve a table for dinner.