You have all been so helpful to me, here are some reviews of our recent stays.
Hotels:
Lisbon:
-The One Palacio da Anunciata- expensive hotel, beautiful renovated palace then convent. Location was great, off of Avenida da Liberdade and walking distance to all spots. Had a rooftop pool and spa that we didn't use, just there for one night. Lovely sitting areas throughout.
-Brown's Central Hotel-much more reasonably priced, Had a junior suite which was well-appointed and spacious. Breakfast was great. Our biggest complaint was that it is on a noisy street in Baixa area and we were on first floor above lobby facing the street. It was very loud at night with a singer at the restaurant who started at 9 or 10. I would request a higher floor and not facing the street. Baixa is the area recommended by RS book however not sure I would recommend (aside from walking proximity to all.) It is very touristy. Walking to and from hotel we were constantly barraged by men trying to get us to eat at their cafes. Staff and front desk were much less welcoming and helpful than at the fancier hotels.
Porto:
Torel Palace Porto-again, expensive but another beautiful renovated palace in a very convenient location to everything in Porto. They will arrange a tour with their tour guide, Francisco, who is a graduate student in history and geography at University of Porto and took us on a 3hr walking tour that was not on the typical tourist path. This was phenomenal.
Food:
I just want to recommend avoiding Cantinho da Alvillez which is recommended in the RS book. It was overpriced and food/service was not good.
-Jane