Top Food to Eat in Porto: A Travey Club Guide

Top Food to Eat in Porto: A Travey Club Guide

Porto is a city that feeds your soul — and your appetite.

From hearty comfort dishes to delicate pastries and world-famous wine, food in Porto is deeply tied to tradition, family, and slow living. At Travey Club, we believe you don’t truly know a destination until you taste it. And Porto? Porto tastes unforgettable.

Here’s our curated list of top foods you must eat in Porto.

 

Francesinha – Porto’s Iconic Indulgence

This is Porto’s most famous dish — and yes, it’s intense.

A francesinha is a layered sandwich filled with cured meats and steak, covered in melted cheese, and drenched in a rich, spicy beer-based sauce. Often served with fries and sometimes topped with an egg, it’s bold, messy, and iconic.

Travey Tip: Try it once, share if needed, and don’t rush it.

 

Bacalhau – Portugal’s Beloved Codfish

Portugal is said to have 365 ways to cook bacalhau, and Porto does it beautifully.

Some must-try versions:

  • Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod, eggs, potatoes)
  • Bacalhau com Natas (creamy and comforting)
  • Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (a Porto classic)

Simple ingredients, deep flavor — pure Portuguese soul food.

 

Tripas à Moda do Porto

This dish tells a story.

Tripas à Moda do Porto is a traditional tripe stew that dates back centuries and earned locals the nickname Tripeiros. It’s rich, hearty, and deeply rooted in the city’s history.

Travey Tip: Not for everyone — but for adventurous eaters, it’s a cultural must.

 

Grilled Sardines (Sardinhas Assadas)

Few things feel more Portuguese than grilled sardines.

Fresh, lightly seasoned, and grilled over open flames, sardines are simple but incredibly flavorful. Best enjoyed with bread, olive oil, and a glass of wine.

Especially popular in summer and during local festivals.

 

Bifana – The Perfect Street Bite

Sometimes the best food is the simplest.

A bifana is a pork sandwich marinated in garlic and spices, served in soft bread. It’s fast, affordable, and surprisingly addictive.

Travey Tip: Perfect for lunch on the go between sightseeing stops.

 

Petiscos – Portuguese Small Plates

Think tapas, but Portuguese.

Petiscos are small dishes meant for sharing — from octopus salad and grilled chorizo to cheese, olives, and seafood. They’re ideal for slow evenings and long conversations.

At Travey Club, this is one of our favorite ways to eat.

 

Pastel de Nata – A Sweet Essential

No Porto food list is complete without pastel de nata.

This creamy custard tart with a flaky crust is best enjoyed warm, dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar, and paired with strong Portuguese coffee.

One is never enough.

 

Port Wine – Porto in a Glass

Porto isn’t just named after port wine — it’s where the magic begins.

From ruby to tawny to vintage, port wine is rich, smooth, and perfect for sipping slowly. Head to Vila Nova de Gaia for tastings, or enjoy a glass by the river at sunset.

Travey Tip: Let locals guide your choice — every glass tells a story.

 

Douro Valley Wines

Beyond port, the Douro Valley produces incredible red and white wines.

Full-bodied reds, crisp whites, and stunning views make Douro wines a must-try when dining in Porto.

 

Simple Bread, Cheese & Olive Oil

Sometimes, the most memorable bites are the simplest.

Portuguese bread, local cheese, and high-quality olive oil often arrive at the table without fuss — and yet, they’re unforgettable.

Don’t underestimate the basics.

 

Final Thoughts from Travey Club

Food in Porto isn’t about trends or theatrics. It’s about tradition, warmth, and time — time to cook, time to eat, time to connect.

Whether you’re sharing petiscos by the river, tackling a francesinha, or sipping port as the sun sets, Porto invites you to slow down and savor every bite.

And honestly? That’s our favorite way to travel.

Travey Club specializes in creating custom travel plans tailored to individual interests, travel styles, and schedules. From curated itineraries to detailed logistics, our team helps travelers navigate destinations with confidence and ease. For a fully bespoke experience, contact us or become a Travey Club member and allow us to design a personalized journey based on your preferences. The itinerary below highlights key activities, while our custom planning ensures every detail is thoughtfully arranged to suit you.

Look at our three days Porto Itinerary : Travey Club