Porto, a vibrant city on Portugal’s northern coast, is not only famous for its history and beautiful sights but also for its rich and diverse culinary scene. From traditional Portuguese dishes to modern gastronomy, there’s something for every food lover. In this guide, we explore the best places to eat in Porto, including local eateries, fine dining restaurants, and hidden gems that will make your visit unforgettable.
1. Traditional Portuguese Cuisine in Porto
If you’re seeking to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine, here are some of the best places in Porto to try traditional dishes like bacalhau (codfish), francesinha, and tripas à moda do Porto (tripe stew).
Taberna dos Mercadores
Located near the Ribeira District, Taberna dos Mercadores is a small and cozy restaurant known for serving authentic Portuguese dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
- Specialties: Grilled fresh fish, octopus rice, and bacalhau à brás.
- Tip: Make a reservation in advance, as the restaurant has limited seating.
Address: Rua dos Mercadores, 36, Porto
Casa Guedes
Famous for its sanduíche de pernil (pork sandwich), Casa Guedes is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a hearty, authentic Portuguese meal.
- Specialties: Pork sandwich with sheep’s cheese, petiscos (small plates), and traditional soups.
- Tip: This place can get busy, so expect a bit of a wait during peak hours.
Address: Praça dos Poveiros, 130, Porto
O Buraco
A local favorite, O Buraco offers a no-frills, authentic dining experience with generous portions of homestyle Portuguese dishes.
- Specialties: Grilled meats, codfish, and Portuguese stew.
- Price Range: Affordable and great for a budget-friendly meal.
Address: Rua do Bolhão, 95, Porto
2. The Best Seafood Restaurants in Porto
Given its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Porto boasts some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in Portugal.
Marisqueira de Matosinhos
Located in the nearby coastal town of Matosinhos, this restaurant is a seafood lover’s paradise known for its fresh, high-quality seafood dishes.
- Specialties: Grilled fish, seafood rice, and clams in garlic sauce.
- Tip: Take the metro or a taxi to Matosinhos for the best seafood experience.
Address: Rua Roberto Ivens, 717, Matosinhos
Cervejaria Ramiro
A well-known spot for enjoying a seafood feast, Cervejaria Ramiro is famous for its seafood platters and shellfish.
- Specialties: Grilled tiger prawns, crab, and seafood rice.
- Tip: Arrive early to avoid long wait times.
Address: Rua de Sá da Bandeira, 161, Porto
3. Top Spots for Francesinha in Porto
The francesinha is Porto’s most iconic sandwich—a hearty meal made with layers of cured meats, covered in melted cheese, and topped with a rich beer-based sauce.
Café Santiago
Considered by many locals as serving the best francesinha in Porto, Café Santiago has been perfecting this iconic dish for years.
- Specialties: Francesinha with fried egg and French fries.
- Tip: Pair your francesinha with a local beer for the complete experience.
Address: Rua de Passos Manuel, 226, Porto
Bufete Fase
A small, unassuming eatery, Bufete Fase is known for its legendary francesinha, often hailed as the most authentic in the city.
- Specialties: Classic francesinha.
- Price Range: Budget-friendly and casual dining.
Address: Rua de Santa Catarina, 1147, Porto
4. Fine Dining and Modern Gastronomy in Porto
For those looking to indulge in a more refined dining experience, Porto’s fine dining restaurants offer exquisite modern gastronomy with local flavors.
The Yeatman
A Michelin-starred restaurant located in Vila Nova de Gaia, The Yeatman offers stunning views of Porto along with an exceptional dining experience.
- Specialties: Tasting menus featuring modern Portuguese cuisine.
- Tip: Book well in advance, as this is one of the most sought-after dining experiences in Porto.
Address: Rua do Choupelo, 4400-088, Vila Nova de Gaia
Pedro Lemos
Another Michelin-starred restaurant, Pedro Lemos offers an intimate fine dining experience with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients.
- Specialties: Tasting menus with wine pairings.
- Tip: Ideal for special occasions or a romantic dinner.
Address: Rua do Padre Luís Cabral, 974, Porto
5. Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Porto
Porto’s food scene also caters to vegetarians and vegans, with a variety of plant-based restaurants that offer creative and delicious options.
Black Mamba
A vegan burger and record shop, Black Mamba is the perfect spot for a casual plant-based meal.
- Specialties: Vegan burgers, sandwiches, and craft beers.
- Tip: Great spot for music lovers and vegan foodies alike.
Address: Rua dos Mártires da Liberdade, 130, Porto
Em Carne Viva
Located near the Boavista area, Em Carne Viva offers a refined vegetarian and vegan dining experience with an emphasis on local, organic ingredients.
- Specialties: Vegan tasting menus, traditional Portuguese dishes with a vegan twist.
- Tip: Enjoy the outdoor terrace for a relaxing meal.
Address: Avenida da Boavista, 868, Porto
6. Sweet Treats and Desserts in Porto
No meal in Porto is complete without indulging in some traditional Portuguese desserts.
Confeitaria do Bolhão
A historic pastry shop near the Mercado do Bolhão, Confeitaria do Bolhão is known for its wide range of pastries and desserts.
- Specialties: Pastéis de nata, éclairs, and local cakes.
- Tip: Grab a pastry to go and enjoy it while exploring the market.
Address: Rua Formosa, 339, Porto
Manteigaria
Famous for serving some of the best pastéis de nata in Porto, Manteigaria is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
- Specialties: Freshly baked pastéis de nata.
- Tip: Enjoy a warm pastel de nata with a shot of espresso.
Address: Rua de Alexandre Braga, 24, Porto
Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Porto
Porto is a city where culinary traditions and modern gastronomy come together to create an unforgettable dining experience. From authentic Portuguese dishes to world-class seafood and delectable pastries, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try the best francesinha in town or craving a fine dining experience, Porto’s culinary scene won’t disappoint.
Make the most of your food journey by exploring different neighborhoods and local eateries, and don’t forget to pair your meals with a glass of Port wine to complete the experience! Bon appétit!