Ponto Wine, Castelo Branco

Castelo Branco is growing in terms of quality restaurant choice, and nowadays we struggle to decide where to eat when we are in the city. There are some really special options (see also Mãos da Horta), but Ponto Wine remains a firm favourite of ours.

Ponto Wine is not just a bar, it is also a bottle shop and restaurant. If you are familiar with the concept of an enoteca in Italy, then you will know what to expect from this eclectic place. It has a fantastic range of Portuguese wines, including little-known producers from the local area, and also some rarer vintages. It also has very knowledgable staff who can help you make a selection (the variety can be quite daunting, so just tell them the style and price point you are looking for and they can advise).

The restaurant has both inside and outside seating and, like the wines, a really wide range of tapas as well as full meals. We have eaten here a few times and never been disappointed with the food and service. The house wine is also very good, as is the daily lunch menu. Whatever you order make sure you get a side of chips, as they are really tasty! 

The decor is modern and nicely lit with good space between tables, and the terrace outside is great for a cold glass of white wine on a hot day.