The city of Porto is famous for its unique culture, rich history, and delicious food. While visiting this port city, you must try local delicacies to experience Portugal in all its glory truly.
Here are the five best Porto foods worth trying before you leave town!
1. Francesinha
When you’re in Porto, you absolutely must try the iconic Francesinha, a mouthwatering sandwich that’s become a symbol of the city’s cuisine. Often described as a “heart attack on a plate,” this indulgent dish is not for the faint of heart but a must-try for any adventurous food lover. The Francesinha consists of layers of flavor-packed ingredients: thinly sliced cured meats (usually ham and linguiça), a juicy steak, and sometimes even fresh sausage. This savory tower is then blanketed in melted cheese and smothered in a spicy tomato and beer-based sauce. It’s typically served with a side of crispy French fries.
2. Pastel de nata
Pastel de nata is a traditional Portuguese egg tart. It’s a pastry filled with egg custard and usually served warm. You can find pastel de natas at bakeries, cafés, and restaurants all over Porto. They’re often served with coffee or tea for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Pastel de natas are best eaten the same day they’re made because they become rubbery if refrigerated overnight (although this doesn’t stop many locals from buying them from supermarkets). If you want to make them ahead of time, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to eat; just be sure not to leave them too long because they won’t taste as good!
3. Alheira
Alheira is a type of sausage made from ground meat, bread, and spices. It’s typically served as an appetizer with wine or beer. The best place to find alheira is at Restaurante Alheira da Serra in the city of Porto. The restaurant offers wide varieties, including spicy pork and chicken alheiras (pictured above).
Alheiras are typically eaten cold on their own as an appetizer or with mustard, pickles, and bread slices. If you’re unsure what kind you want to try first, ask your server for recommendations based on your preferences–they’ll be able to help guide you through the menu options!
In addition to being delicious, alheiras pair well with wine because they’re rich in flavor but don’t overwhelm the palate like heavier dishes might do when paired with reds like cabernet sauvignon or merlot
4. Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá
Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá is a beloved Portuguese dish that holds a special place in Porto’s culinary heritage. This flavorful and hearty salted cod dish has been cherished by locals for generations. The dish features salted codfish, onions, garlic, potatoes, parsley, and olives. The codfish is typically soaked to remove excess salt, then cooked with the other ingredients, creating a delicious amalgamation of flavors. The final touch is a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
5. Padaria Portuguesa
The Portuguese are known for their baked goods, so it should be no surprise that there are several places to get some good bread and pastries in Porto. One of the most well-known bakeries in town is Padaria Portuguesa, which has locations throughout the city, including one right across from Ribeira Market.
There you’ll find Portuguese cakes like custard tarts (pastel de nata), egg tarts (ovo de leite), and other desserts made fresh daily by bakers who have been working there since childhood. If you’re not hungry but want something sweet to snack on while walking around town, then stop by any grocery store where they usually sell these treats as well–or even better yet, try them at home!
Food Tours in Porto
Embarking on Porto food tours is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the culinary treasures of this enchanting city. These guided experiences take you on a delectable journey, allowing you to discover and savor the best Porto foods while learning about their historical and cultural significance. So, if you’re a food enthusiast eager to explore the best Porto foods and the stories behind them, a Porto food tour is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
- Porto Food Tour: Discover the best food in Porto on this delicious food tour – from traditional Portuguese dishes to sweet treats and everything in between! Porto food tour!
- Porto Petiscos & Wine Tour: On this gastronomic trip, indulge your senses with our most excellent petiscos and wine in Porto. It’s great for foodies who want to taste local cuisine and enjoy their stay in our wonderful city away from the tourist traps.
Try some of the delicious foods of Porto.
Porto is the birthplace of several delicious foods, including:
- Francesinha (a sandwich with ham, sausage, and steak)
- Pastel de nata (custard tarts)
- Alheira (Portuguese chicken sausage)
- Bacalhau a lagareiro (salt cod with potatoes and onions)
If you’re looking for something sweet, try one of Porto’s famous pastries at Padaria Portuguesa, or A Pao Quente do Carmo.
Best Porto Foods: Conclusion!
In conclusion, exploring the best Porto foods is not just a culinary adventure; it’s a journey into the heart and soul of this vibrant city. From the indulgent Francesinha to the comforting Caldo Verde, Porto’s cuisine is a testament to its rich history and cultural significance. These dishes aren’t just meals; they’re stories on a plate, connecting you to centuries of tradition and the warm hospitality of Porto’s people. So, when you find yourself in this enchanting city, be sure to savor every bite of these best Porto foods, and let your taste buds become part of the tapestry that is Porto’s gastronomic heritage.
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