GRUTA
Gruta is a contemporary seafood restaurant in central Porto, blending Portuguese and Brazilian culinary influences. As Creative Director, I led the development of the brand’s identity, overseeing all visual communication from concept to launch.
I designed the logo, menus, signage, and digital assets, crafting a minimal yet expressive visual language that mirrors the restaurant’s intimate, modern atmosphere. I also directed and produced the photography, capturing the warmth of the space and the elegance of the dishes in a cohesive visual narrative.
The branding contributed to Gruta’s recognition by the Michelin Guide (Bib Gourmand) and coverage in Eater and Time Out, helping establish it as a standout dining destination in Porto.
BRANDING PROCESS
Gruta, meaning “cave” in Portuguese, is located on a lower level in Porto and accessed through a distinctive archway. This entrance became the core inspiration for the brand identity.
I developed a sleek, custom typographic system inspired by the shape of the arch—minimal, geometric, and refined. It reflects the transition from the busy street into Gruta’s calm, intimate space.
With a brand positioning that targets a modern, high-end but approachable audience, the design emphasizes simplicity and elegance. The visual identity is quiet yet confident, balancing sophistication with warmth across all touchpoints—from menus to signage and digital assets.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The photography captures Gruta’s warm, intimate atmosphere with rich tones and a focus on the food. Emphasizing texture and natural light, the images blend stillness with subtle action—steam rising, a hand plating, a dish mid-serve—to evoke a sense of immediacy and craft.
The visuals reflect the restaurant’s elegant yet approachable spirit and were used across digital, editorial, and promotional platforms.
