Tripas à Moda do Porto at Restaurante O Líder

Let’s start with the most iconic dish. Tripas à moda do Porto is more than food –  it’s heritage. At O Líder, in Antas, this dish is taken seriously. With over 30 years of history, the kitchen is run by Manuel Moura, president of the Tripas Gastronomic Brotherhood. Made with white beans, assorted meats, and the famous tripe –  cleaned and cooked to perfection –  it’s served with white rice, as tradition demands. And yes, there’s always a cold beer to go with it.

Arroz de Cabidela at O Buraco

If you enjoy bold flavours and recipes steeped in history, the arroz de cabidela at O Buraco will leave you speechless. It’s one of those old-school dishes, made with time and skilled hands. Before diving in, don’t skip the fish rissoles – crispy on the outside, creamy inside. The vibe is simple and welcoming, like dining at a friend’s house.

Cachorrinhos at Gazela

No visit to Porto is complete without stopping at Snack-Bar Gazela. Their cachorrinhos – thin, crispy bread filled with fresh sausage, linguiça, melted cheese, and brushed with spicy sauce –  are a sensory experience like no other. If it’s too crowded (and it often is), cross the street to Gazela Entreparedes. Just be patient and hungry. And yes, order it spicy.

Francesinha at Afonso

The francesinha may be a worldwide star by now, but few shine like the one at O Afonso, in Cedofeita. Even Anthony Bourdain agreed. The recipe combines tradition and boldness: peppercorn mortadella, well-grilled steak, salted linguiça, and a spicy, beer-laced sauce – all under a generous blanket of melted cheese. It’s an indulgence that’s worth every bite.

Presunto Sandwich at Taxca

In the heart of Rua da Picaria, Taxca – an offshoot of the original A Badalhoca, founded by loyal patrons – is synonymous with quality ham sandwiches. The secret? Perfectly sliced, boneless presunto, and fresh bread baked three times a day. Walk in, order with confidence: a sandwich, a glass of vinho verde, and quiet appreciation.

Rojões (and more) at A Badalhoca

A Badalhoca is more than a tasca – it’s part of Porto’s soul since 1929. Known for its presunto sandwich, the rojões sandwich is just as good. Straight from the pot into house-made bread. There’s also liver and even tripe options. At the heart of the kitchen is Maria de Lurdes Guedes, cooking for decades. Just look at the walls –  you’ll know this is where Boavista and good food live passionately.

Bifanas at  O Astro

Across from Campanhã Station, O Astro is a local classic for fast, tasty food. Their bifanas are juicy, well-seasoned, and always come with caldo verde and a couple of beers. A must-stop for anyone arriving or leaving Porto by train.

Roast Pork & Serra Cheese Sandwich – Casa Guedes

Casa Guedes is almost a monument in sandwich form. Their roast pork sandwich with crackling crust and creamy Serra cheese is simply magical. Watch it made before your eyes: bread toasting, pork being sliced, cheese melting. Each bite is a standing ovation. The original shop has grown, but the spirit lives on –  just look at the queue outside.

Codfish Cakes at Cozinha da Amélia

And finally, a true classic. Before any meal, a good bolinho de bacalhau is a must. At Cozinha da Amélia, formerly Redondo in Ramada Alta, these codfish cakes are crisp on the outside, soft inside, and packed with honest cod-and-potato flavour.