During my trip to Porto, the foodie in me made it a point to indulge in as many culinary delights as possible. Besides the iconic monuments, stunnings sunset points or the charm of the North Atlantic ocean, this city of Portugal is also famous for its culinary delights!
Porto’s cuisine is a feast for the senses, blending rich traditions with bold flavors that tell the story of the city’s history and culture. From hearty, slow-cooked stews to fresh Atlantic seafood and indulgent pastries, every dish reflects the essence of traditional Porto cuisine.
The city is known for a seamless blend of fresh seafood like salted codfish and grilled Atlantic sea bass along with inland delights like the indulgent Francesinha, a decadent sandwich drenched in a spicy beer sauce. The list does not stop here, there are plenty of other delights like Tripas à Moda do Porto, a centuries-old tripe stew that showcases Porto’s culinary heritage.
And when you are in the mood to satiate your sweet tooth, the famous dessert Pastel de Nata is your best friend!
For the wine lovers out there like me, you will find solace here as Porto has an enviable selection of this indulgent drink, most notably Port wine. Think again if you thought this is the sole domain of France and Italy!
As a native Bengali from India, where seafood and sweets are integral part of our diets, I was in for a real treat in this city, as though it were my hometown.
Let me share the ultimate Porto food guide comprising the best dishes and the places to try them with you.
The Best Seafood in Porto: What (and Where) to Eat
Porto’s seafood scene is a true celebration of the Atlantic, where the day’s catch is transformed into unforgettable dishes bursting with flavor. From sizzling grilled sardines to the famous salted codfish, there’s a delight at every corner. Let me take you through the soulful story of Portugal’s coastal heritage.
Bacalhau (salted codfish)
Porto has a deep standing love affair with bacalhau (salted Portuguese cod fish). You will find many variations here. Bacalhau à Brás is a delicious dish made with shredded salted cod, onions, thinly cut fried potatoes, and eggs, all mixed together into a creamy and flavorful combination bound with eggs.I had the pleasure of trying this Portuguese favorite during my day trip to the adjoining Douro valley and Braga and Guimeraes, the seafood lover in me enjoyed it to the fullest.
Pastéis de Bacalhau
The other avatar is Pastéis de Bacalhau, the Portuguese codfish cake. These crispy, golden codfish fritters are made from a delicious mixture of salted cod , mashed potatoes, eggs, onions, parsley, and seasoning, then deep-fried to perfection.
With a crunchy exterior and a soft, flavorful inside, Pastéis de Bacalhau are a staple in Portuguese cuisine, often enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even paired with Arroz de Tomate (tomato rice) for a light meal. Some modern variations even include Serra da Estrela cheese, adding a creamy, indulgent twist to the classic recipe.
Where to eat the best Bacalhau?
Some of the renowned places to try this Porto delight are Culto Ao Bacalhau, Cantinho do Avillez, A Parte and O bacalhau Em Prato among others.
I suggest that you try the Ribeira or Baixa areas for the traditional rendition of Bacalhau and the Foz do Douro locality for a more upscale experience with an ocean view.
Popular Food Tours in Porto
Indulge in Grilled Delights
Porto, with its strong maritime heritage, offers a fantastic selection of grilled fish dishes that showcase the city’s love for fresh seafood. As someone from India’s Bengal region, fish has been my staple since childhood and I never felt out of place during my time in Porto.
Here are some of the best grilled delights
Robalo Grelhado
Robalo Grelhado or the Grilled Atlantic Sea Bass is often served whole with olive oil, garlic, and lemon, accompanied by boiled potatoes and sautéed greens. Its tender, flaky texture makes it a favorite among seafood lovers. I indulged in this timeless delight during my Solo Trip to Porto.
Besides the Sea Bass, grilled Salmon fillets are also a common feature in the Porto restaurants, accompanied with salt, pepper and olive oil.
Another iconic dish in this segment is the grilled Sardine. Whole sardines are grilled over an open flame, creating a smoky, charred flavor. Typically served with boiled potatoes, grilled bell peppers, and cornbread, they are popular during the São João Festival in June.
How to locate the best Grilled seafood places?
For an upscale experience by the Atlantic, visit Foz do Douro. Top restaurants to try are Restaurante Do Molhe, Casa de Pasto da Palmeira and Ichiban (offering a fusion of Portuguese and Japanese seafood).
For the freshest seafood, I suggest you visit Matosinhos. Recommended restaurants are O Gaveto, Marisqueira de Matosinhos and Esplanada Marisqueira Antiga.
If you want a scenic riverfront view, of course visit the Ribeira. Best places are Ribeira Square, Fish Fixe and Terra Nova.
Finally Baxia is the locality for traditional restaurants. Adega São Nicolau, Taberna dos Mercadores, are some of the best spots.
Popular Activities in Porto
Iconic Meat Dishes You Must Try in Porto
Beyond its coastal treasures, Porto serves up hearty, soul-warming dishes that are just as unforgettable. From the legendary Francesinha sandwich to the Tripas à Moda do Porto stew, the city’s culinary roots run deep. These bold, comforting plates tell stories of tradition, resilience, and serious flavor.
Francesinha: The Legendary Porto Sandwich
Francesinha, the rich, indulgent, and utterly satisfying sandwich has achieved legendary status in Portugal.
This Portuguese take on the croque-monsieur is stacked with layers of meat (although nowadays vegan options are available), and melted cheese, all wrapped in thick slices of bread. The entire sandwich is then smothered in a secret spicy tomato and beer sauce and often topped with a fried egg, served with a side of crispy French fries.
The magic of Francesinha lies in its spicy, slightly tangy sauce which is often the Chef’s secret!
Where to eat Francesinha?
If you want the best Francesinha in Porto, I recommend you visit downtown Baixa. Best places are Café Santiago and Brasão Aliados. If you want to have your sandwich by the river, then Ribeira is your spot. Ribeira Square and Café do Cais are the renowned spots!
For a more authentic non-touristy experience, visit the Boavista area. Top spots are Cufra and Capa Negra II.
And finally, if you are a fish lover like me, pay a visit to Venham Mais 5 in Matosinhos for a Francesinha with a seafood twist!
Tripas à moda do Porto
One of Porto’s most historic and beloved dishes, Tripas à Moda do Porto, also known as Porto style tripe, is a rich, slow-cooked stew that dates back to the 15th century. Made with tripe (cow’s stomach), white beans, pork, and carrots, this dish is deeply seasoned with aromatic spices and slow-cooked to perfection. Served piping hot, Tripas à Moda do Porto is a comforting, protein-packed meal.
Although I did not get a chance to indulge in this delight, I recommend you try this at least once during your time in Porto. Some of the famous restaurants to try this dish are Abaida do Porto, A Cozinha do Manel, Postigo do Carvao and A Grade.
Caldo Verde (Green Soup)
Caldo Verde is a simple yet flavorful Portuguese soup that has been a staple in Porto’s cuisine for generations. Made with thinly sliced cabbage, potatoes, onions, garlic, and olive oil, this velvety, comforting soup is then topped with slices of smoky chouriço (Portuguese sausage) for extra depth of flavor.
Served piping hot with a slice of broa (Portuguese cornbread), Caldo Verde is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly Porto evening or start a traditional Portuguese meal.
While Caldo verde is served in almost every restaurant in Portugal it is also available in ready to eat bowls in grocery stores.
Still some of the famous spots to try this soup are O Caseirinho, Conga – Casa das Bifanas and Em Carne Viva (for vegan options).
Porto’s Best Desserts & Pastries
If you have got a sweet tooth like me, Porto’s desserts are pure joy on a plate. From the iconic Pastel de Nata with its caramelized top and creamy center, to lesser-known treats like toucinho do céu or almond rich cakes, every bite tells a delicious story. Dessert in Porto isn’t just an afterthought, it’s a full on experience you don’t want to miss.
Pastel de Nata: Porto’s Irresistible Custard Tart
No visit to Porto is complete without indulging in a Pastel de Nata, the most beloved Portuguese tart. These golden, flaky tarts are filled with a rich, creamy custard, caramelized to perfection on top, and often sprinkled with a dash of cinnamon or powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Originally from Lisbon, Pastéis de Nata have found a home in Porto’s cafés and bakeries, where they are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, paired with a strong espresso (bica). The contrast between the crispy, buttery crust and the smooth, velvety custard makes this treat utterly addictive.
Whether you grab one at a historic bakery or a modern pastelaria, Pastel de Nata is a must-try when exploring Porto’s vibrant food scene, a small yet unforgettable bite of Portuguese tradition!
Although Pastel de Nata is available widely across Porto, let me recommend some places for a curated experience. Eat them from specialty bakeries like Manteigaria, Fábrica da Nata, or Castro – Atelier de Pastéis de Nata, where they are served warm, with crispy, flaky layers and creamy custard. Many cafés also serve them as a perfect pairing with a strong espresso (bica).
Being a person with a sweet tooth (thanks to my Bengali roots), this indulgent delight turned out to be a comfort food for me!
Vegan Delights: Plant based rendition of the authentic Portuguese Dishes
It is easy to think that Porto is full of non-vegetarian and seafood delights. But that’s far from true today!
Porto offers a variety of delicious vegan food dishes, including plant-based versions of traditional Portuguese cuisine and international favorites. Let me share a few delights for the vegetarians out there:
Vegan Francesinha
A meat-free version of Porto’s famous sandwich, typically made with layers of plant-based meats, vegan cheese, and a rich tomato and beer sauce. Served at several vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the city. Notable places to try include Santa Francesinha, Kind Kitchen and Casanova.
Vegan Alheira Sausage
A traditional Portuguese sausage reimagined with plant-based ingredients, offering a smoky and savory flavor. Often accompanied by sides like rice or salad. Recommended places to indulge in this vegan delight include Em Carne Viva, Espiga Café and Arvore do Mundo.
Vegan Mushroom Wellington
A hearty dish featuring a rich mushroom filling encased in flaky pastry, providing a satisfying alternative to meat-based Wellingtons. Recommended places to the vegan wellington are Em carne viva, Jardineiro and Arvore do Mundo.
Vegan Burritos
Enjoy flavorful burritos filled with ingredients like beans, rice, vegetables, and plant-based proteins, wrapped in a soft tortilla. Some notable places to try this vegan Mexican delight are O Burrito, Callejero and Nola Kitchen.
Vegan Tapas
Besides traditional and some cosmopolitan dishes, travelers can indulge in vegan tapas in between their day trips. They allow you to experience a variety of small plant-based dishes, allowing you to sample multiple flavors and textures in one meal. Some of the recommended places to try some vegan tapas are Especie, daTerra and Vegana by Tentuga.
Vegan Pastel de Nata
A plant-based twist on Portugal’s iconic custard tart, featuring a flaky pastry shell filled with creamy, egg-free custard. Pastel de nata, in any avatar, is best coupled with a warm cup of espresso (bica). Available at various vegan-friendly bakeries in Porto like Vegana by Tentugal, Pastelaria Tupi and Padoca.
Vegan Donuts
Indulge in a variety of flavors of plant-based donuts, offering a sweet treat for those with a sweet tooth. Some of the best places to sample vegan donuts are Odete bakery and Pastelaria Tupi.
Port Wine and beyond: Uncorking Porto’s Drink Culture
No trip to Porto is complete without a toast to its world famous wine culture. Home to the rich, velvety Port wine, the city’s history is deeply intertwined with the vineyards of the Douro Valley. From traditional cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia to chic urban wine bars, Porto invites you to sip, swirl, and savor centuries of winemaking heritage.
Port wine, the city’s most famous export and a symbol of Portugal’s rich winemaking heritage, is produced exclusively in the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest wine regions. Port wine is a fortified, sweet wine known for its complex flavors, rich aromas, and deep ruby hues.
The wine is aged in the historic wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Douro River from Porto, where visitors can explore centuries-old lodges, learn about traditional winemaking techniques, and, of course, enjoy tastings of Tawny, Ruby, and Vintage Ports.
With its perfect balance of sweetness and depth, Port wine pairs beautifully with cheeses, chocolate, and traditional Portuguese desserts like Pastel de Nata. Whether you’re sipping a glass at a scenic riverside bar or touring the renowned Port houses of Sandeman, Graham’s, or Taylor’s, indulging in Porto’s viniculture is an unforgettable experience for any wine lover.
Wine lover or not, I recommend you take a guided tour to learn about the city’s famed viniculture. Alternatively, you can participate in a Douro valley Day tour to visit the cradle of Portugal’s wine making culture. Being an avid wine lover, I indulged in the latter, but I will leave it up to your itinerary.
Beyond Wine: Other drinks and cocktails to enjoy in Porto
Besides the rich collection of wine, Porto also boasts other drinks that often get overshadowed. Ginja or Ginjinha, is a cherry liqueur made from sour cherries, sugar, and cinnamon and is often served in small chocolate cups for an extra treat. You can try the best Ginja at places like Wine Quay bar, Garrafeira Nacional or Taberna do Largo.
Another delight is Licor Beirão, A herbal liqueur with a sweet, aromatic taste, made from secret Portuguese herbs and spices.It is enjoyed as a digestive or in cocktails.
For the beer lovers, Porto has a growing craft beer scene, with local breweries like Letraria, Musa, and Sovina offering unique flavors. You can also indulge in a Porto Craft Beer tour to taste a variety of local beer.
Final Bites: Savoring Porto’s Culinary Magic
I had a memorable time with Porto’s cuisine. Being a fish lover and a person with a sweet tooth, I never once felt out of place in this wonderful city, thanks to the seafood delights and good old Pastel de Nata!
Porto is more than just a charming city, it’s a feast for the senses. From the rich, comforting Francesinha to the fresh, ocean-kissed seafood, every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and authenticity. Whether you are indulging in a pastel de nata with a riverside view or sipping a glass of velvety Port wine in a historic cellar, Porto’s food scene is an experience that lingers long after your trip ends.
Whether you choose to avail a guided food tour or explore the delights at your own pace, you will surely be left satiated.
So, come hungry, explore boldly, and let Porto’s flavors guide you through its charming streets. One thing is certain, you will leave with a full heart and an even fuller stomach.
Bom apetite!
Add a Comment