The Problem with Trend Driven Restaurants and Why Small Independent Places Need Our Attention

Author: João Távora Paupério

Lately, I’ve been on a bit of a rant about trend driven restaurants—and for good reason. In Porto, it feels like every week a new hotspot with neon signs, Instagram-ready backdrops, and an enticing menu promising the best of Asian, American, brunch, or fusion cuisine. But here’s the kicker: beyond the Instagrammable pink flower walls and trendy vibes, these places often backed by significant financial investment fail to deliver anything meaningful when it comes to the actual food experience. Meanwhile, small, seasonally inspired, product-focused establishments are quietly offering something far more genuine. These places, where chefs pour their passion into real, honest cooking, deserve our attention now more than ever.

The Illusion of Trendy Dining

I’ll admit, I’ve been drawn to my share of trend driven spots—the latest noodle bar, the ribs-galore American-themed joint, or an Italian place that seemed to have never made acquaintance with Italy. Who could blame me? When these places first started popping up, they felt like a refreshing escape from the ordinary. In a world that often feels grey, their vibrant appeal was hard to resist. But as time passed, I learned to see  them for what they really are: places that attract people with the promise of 'authentic' cuisine and catchy design, yet rarely prioritize quality ingredients, great service, or employee welfare over profits and exposure.

Don’t get me wrong—not all of the trend driven restaurants are bad, and the food isn’t always subpar. But if you’re looking for an authentic experience, one that centers on high-quality products and the genuine care of owners who pour their hearts into their work, these flashy, corporate-driven, trend-driven spots might not be for you. At the end of the day mediocrity shouldn’t be celebrated just because the walls look good on the latest TikTok viral video. 

A great dining experience is about more than trends or aesthetics—it’s about authenticity, quality, and the people who passionately create what’s on your plate. And that’s exactly where the quiet, product-focused bistros, restaurants and cafes shine.

Porto’s Growing Food Revolution

Porto seems to be in the midst of an exciting food revolution. We’re lucky enough to have both local and international chefs choosing our city to launch their restaurants. Among them, small, independently owned eateries are creating something truly remarkable.

These places are often small, with minimal but very well thought décor that leaves the spotlight on what truly matters: the food and the people behind it. While the walls might not be adorned with flashy neon signs or Instagram-ready backdrops, they are filled with talent, sincerity, and a sense of welcoming warmth. There’s something deeply comforting about stepping into a space that isn’t trying to impress with extravagance but instead invites you to be part of something real. Perhaps the most important quality that defines these places is humbleness.

The chefs don’t need to shout about their skills or the origin of their ingredients—though they know exactly where their products come from. Their work speaks for itself. This quiet confidence, paired with a genuine desire to serve you the best food possible, is what makes these eateries truly special.

The Importance of Experience & Perceived Value

Now, let’s talk about something that often gets overlooked in this discussion—perceived value. This is the ratio of price to quality for a meal. I believe that a restaurant experience should ultimately be measured by how happy you felt after what you’ve eaten. It’s not just about the monetary cost but the emotional satisfaction that lingers long after you’ve left the table. A truly great meal doesn’t just fill your stomach—it fills your soul.

What’s interesting is that, many times, the monetary difference between these places is minimal or even nonexistent. But the experience? That, my friends, is priceless—especially if you truly love food. 

Celebrating Authenticity Over Trends

This is why I believe it’s worth taking a step back from the flashy, overhyped trend driven dining spots shaped by significant financial backing and instead focusing on the small, privately-owned operations that quietly adhere to what it means to eat well. These places remind us that trends are just that—trends—but the art & passion of cooking well? That’s a way of life we should truly be celebrating. 

A Call to Action

In a sense, my intention is to encourage you to pause the next time you’re deciding between what is flashy and fancy or local and creative. Choose to support the establishments that truly embody what it means to eat well. By doing so, you’re not just enjoying incredible food and creating memorable experiences; you’re also helping to secure their future in the city we love, ensuring we can continue to savor their creativity.

Trendy restaurants may dominate our feeds, but the heart of a city’s dining scene lies in the quiet, authentic spaces where the love of food takes center stage. Let’s celebrate them.