Porto is full of tourist attractions such as the Livraria Lello, the Estação de São Bento and, of course, the McDonald’s Imperial. But what’s so special about a restaurant owned by a fast food chain? Nothing at first glance, but the truth is that this really is one of the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world!
We didn’t say it ourselves, but a few years ago, Harrison Jacobs. In a article for the renowned magazine “Business Insider”, the critic was impressed by the quirky beauty of this McDonald’s in the heart of Porto. Let’s now focus not only on the details that set it apart, but also on the history of this place.
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I ate at the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world, with crystal chandeliers, stained glass windows and a pastry shop delicious“, wrote Harrison Jacobs.
But what’s different about it? And what is its history? For a better context, let’s go back a bit in time, but we promise to be brief. After all, the current number 126, in Praça da Liberdade, wasn’t always a fast food restaurant.
The origins of space & the Imperial Café
You’ve probably already been to this McDonald’s… And rightly so, because this is one of the things that all Porto residents should do at least once in their lives. Not for the cuisine itself, but for the beauty of its interior.
Before becoming a restaurant, this space belonged to a old café in Porto, which did not survive the passage of time – the Café Imperial. Created in the 1930s, the business gained fame and operated for decades, standing out for its Art Deco style.
The transition to McDonald’s in Porto
In 1995, the space opened to the public as McDonald’s in Porto. However, by keeping part of the old decorative features, it became one of the most incredible in the world.
Details that surprise
Right at the entrance, the giant sculpture of an eagle by Henrique Moreira surprises even the most inattentive of Porto residents or tourists. However, as soon as you enter, it’s the crystal chandeliers that stand out.
Or the vitals, of course. With brown, green and gray tones, the work of Ricardo Leone (a Portuguese artist) is a real treat for the eye, and you’ll immediately want to start taking pictures.
Currently, the space has room for about 180 people and two floors, with the lower floor having a slightly more modern décor.
Although it’s not here that you’ll find the magnificent typical dishes of Porto, it’s well worth going in, if only to stare!