London Welcomed a Taste of Portugal at Midori House

This past Saturday, 10 May, Monocle's London headquarters, Midori House, was transformed into a vibrant showcase of Portuguese creativity, culture, and hospitality. Held in partnership with Visit Portugal, the Spring Market offered an immersive and sunny escape—without leaving Marylebone.

With clear skies and temperatures reaching a delightful 21ºC, more than 500 guests gathered to explore a thoughtfully curated marketplace. Highlights included beloved Portuguese brands such as Claus Porto, La Paz, Quinta Mourisca, Torres Novas, FESTA, Util, and Casa Cubista, alongside the Monocle Shop and Trunk Clothiers.

Gourmands were treated to traditional bifanas and snacks served by Bar Douro, accompanied by a selection of Portuguese wine, beer, and pasteis de nata from Santa Nata. Coffee from SO Coffee Roasters in Porto and tea from Gorreana, Portugal's iconic Azorean tea brand, were served by the Monocle Café.

Monocle Radio broadcast live from the event throughout the day, with hosts Georgina Godwin and Carlota Rebelo capturing the atmosphere, interviewing special guests, and soundtracking the day with a selection of uplifting Portuguese tunes.

As the day transitioned into evening, guests enjoyed a standout panel discussion featuring some of Portugal's most influential voices in design, culture, and hospitality:

Catarina Portas (A Vida Portuguesa), Joana Astolfi (Studio Astolfi), José António Uva (São Lourenço do Barrocal), and Rodrigo Alves, private chef behind Ao Lume and Talho do Mar.

The panels—moderated by Andrew Tuck and Carlota Rebelo—explored themes of warm welcomes, enduring elegance, and the importance of craftsmanship in shaping unforgettable experiences.

Guests were treated to a curated menu by acclaimed chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, crafted especially by his team at JOIA, the celebrated restaurant at Battersea Power Station.

To cap off the day, two lucky attendees won a return trip to Portugal courtesy of TAP Air Portugal, along with a night's stay at São Lourenço do Barrocal.

Free and open to all, the event brought together a lively mix of locals, travellers, and design lovers—each one leaving with a lasting taste of Portugal.

ENDS