Tucked into the centre of Brewery Square, there’s a spot that feels like a little slice of Portugal in Dorset.
Santos + Co has brought the flavours of Portugal straight into Dorchester, and it’s set inside a historic storehouse once used for storing fine wines and ales.
Whether you’re here for a long lunch, a glass of wine on the terrace, or dinner that stretches into the evening, it has that easygoing feel that makes you want to stay a little longer.
The first thing you’ll notice is the striking terrace. Its canopy is held up by iron pillars salvaged from the old Dorchester West Station, a lovely detail tying the past to the present.
On warm afternoons, this terrace is the spot everyone wants.
Inside, the look is sleek yet inviting. A marble-topped bar lined with high stools and glowing pendant lights makes it hard to resist ordering a drink before your meal.
There’s also a dining room with soft leather banquettes, and arched brick windows that provide a vibe that makes you feel instantly relaxed.
And then there’s the terrace seating, with flowers and fresh greenery, it’s where you can sip wine and share plates while watching Brewery Square come to life.
The food is all about “petiscos”, Portuguese-style small plates designed for sharing. Marinated olives, charcuterie, cheeses, grilled fish and slow-cooked meats.
It’s a way of eating that feels unhurried and sociable.
One of the dishes that stands out is the Caril de Peixe, fish simmered in a coconut curry sauce. My kinda of heaven on a plate.
Or you might fancy the Bruschetta Portuguesa, topped with hand-cut slices of traditional Pata Negra presunto ham.
Their wine list is a family affair, literally. Many bottles come straight from their vineyard in Portugal, and they’re perfect with those small plates.
Sitting outside with a glass of chilled white, you could almost forget you’re in Dorset at all.
But if cocktails are more your thing, the bar team mix up a cracking S+T Old Fashioned, poured over a chunky cube of ice.
💡 Good to know: They’re open seven days a week, dog-friendly, and just steps from public transport.
Menus change with the seasons, using local Dorset produce wherever possible, and you can expect a strong showing of steaks and seafood alongside the petiscos.
Whether you’re catching up with friends, out for a date night, or simply curious about how Portuguese and Dorset flavours work together, Santos + Co is worth adding to your list.
📍 Santos + Co, 1 Dray Horse Yard, Brewery Square, Dorchester, DT1 1GS
For more info, please visit their website here.
