The dishes to know
| Dish | What it is | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Francesinha | A sandwich covered in melted cheese and sauce | The city's most famous dish; pick the place carefully |
| Tripas à moda do Porto | Tripe stew, white beans, sausages, carrots, white rice | Look for it at lunch in a tasca |
| Caldo verde | Soup of potatoes, collard greens, olive oil, salt | From the Minho in the north; often with a slice of corn bread |
| Bacalhau | Dried salt cod, soaked | See the cod dishes |
| Rojões, papas de sarrabulho | Stewed pork; a meat porridge | Tasca cooking, to share |
| Pataniscas | Cod fritters | Order as a starter |
| Grilled sardines | A seasonal fish | On the menu of some tascas in season, not all year |
| Pastel de nata | Custard tart in flaky pastry | For breakfast or an afternoon snack |
What is the typical dish of Porto? The francesinha for the best known, tripas à moda do Porto for the one most rooted in the city.
How to order
- Ask for a half portion (meia dose): plates are generous.
- The cover charge (bread, butter, olives) is billed if you touch it.
- The dish of the day is the cheapest way to try a classic; see cheap eats in Porto.
Desserts and sweets
The pastel de nata is everywhere; to compare pastries, read Porto's pastelarias. Some tascas also serve tripas doces or a homemade chocolate mousse.
To taste everything at once
Rather than hunting each dish, a guided visit of the Bolhão market puts several tastings into one morning; see the Bolhão market and our comparison of food tours. For the francesinha in detail: the best francesinha in Porto.
Allergies and diets
Avoiding meat or gluten? Read vegetarian and gluten-free Porto before choosing.
The Porto Authority editorial team, 30/10/2026.
