Embark on a culinary journey in Porto, where the food is not just a meal but a celebration of flavors and traditions. To ensure an authentic experience, I’ve compiled a list of recommended restaurants in Porto, cherished by locals for their homemade, high-quality, and affordable offerings.
1. Taberna d’Avó: A Hidden Gem
Overview:
- Location: R. de São Bento da Vitória 48
- Hours: 12-3pm and 7-10:30pm (Closed Sundays and Mondays)
- Must-Try: Broa cod and Ze do Pipo cod
- Cash Only: Embrace the local norm and carry cash.
Description: Taberna d’Avó, a small tavern, stole our hearts with its typical Porto dishes. The Broa cod, adorned with a crispy bread crust and bacon bits, and the Ze do Pipo cod, cooked with mashed potatoes, left us craving for more. The atmosphere is cozy, though the service might lack the warmth found in other Porto restaurants. Cash is the preferred payment method.
2. Tavern Santo Antonio: Neighborhood Charm
Overview:
- Location: R. das Virtues 32
- Hours: 11 am – 10 pm (Closed on Mondays)
- Must-Try: Cod and meat bolinhas, Cod with cream
Description: Santo Antonio Taberna, a neighborhood tavern, exudes local charm. Known for its bolinhas, a type of croquette, this place offers a genuine taste of Porto. The cod and meat bolinhas, along with the creamy Cod with cream, are favorites. Despite its unassuming appearance, this tavern promises an authentic dining experience.
3. Santa Francesinha: The Francesinha Haven
Overview:
- Location: Praça dos Poveiros 72
- Hours: 12-10:30 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
- Must-Try: Any francesinha
Description: When it comes to francesinhas, Santa Francesinha is a top contender. While Café Santiago is renowned, locals claim Santa Francesinha steals the show. The francesinhas, hearty sandwiches with a mix of meats, cheese, and sauce, are a must-try. With options ranging from spicy to sweet, prepare for a flavor explosion.
4. O Caraças: A Homely Affair
Overview:
- Location: Rua das Taipas 27
- Hours: Mon, Thu, Fri 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 7 pm – 10 pm; Tue, Wed 11:30 am – 2:30 pm; Sat 7 pm – 10 pm (Closed Sundays)
- Must-Try: Trust the chefs and go for the menu of the day.
Description: O Caraças, run by two ladies, offers a unique dining experience with a menu that is verbally shared. The limited but delightful options reflect the day’s fresh, homemade offerings. If you’re open to culinary surprises and enjoy a no-frills atmosphere, O Caraças is a hidden gem.
5. Portuguese Pastry House of Bacalhau: Bolinha Bliss
Overview:
- Location: Av. Diogo de Lima 122, Gaia
- Hours: 10 am – 9 pm
- Must-Try: Cod bolinhas
Description: Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau, overlooking the Gaia promenade, specializes in cod bolinhas. These mouthwatering cod pastries, with a creamy cheese filling, stand out as some of the best in Porto. While the price may be higher, the quality justifies the indulgence.
6. Cantinho de Avillez: Culinary Elegance
Overview:
- Location: R. de Mouzinho da Silveira 166
- Must-Try: Francesinha with truffle, Black rice
Description: Cantinho de Avillez, offering a more refined menu, is perfect for those seeking an elegant dining experience. With a diverse menu featuring rice, meat, fish, and more, this restaurant provides a quieter ambiance. While the prices are higher, the quality and presentation make it a worthwhile choice.
7. Escondidinho do Barredo: Homely Tapas
Overview:
- Location: R. dos Canastreiros 28
- Hours: 1:30 pm – 9 pm (Sunday until 4 pm; Closed on Mondays)
- Must-Try: Spicy meat sandwiches, Grilled sardines
Description: Escondidinho do Barredo, tucked away in Ribeira, stands out as a traditional bar with a cozy, family-like atmosphere. The tapas, featuring spicy meat sandwiches, cuttlefish, bolinhas, and more, showcase top-notch homemade quality at affordable prices.
8. Taberna dos Mercadores: Intimate Elegance
Overview:
- Location: R. dos Mercadores 36
- Must-Try: Seafood rice, Sea bass in salt
Description: Taberna dos Mercadores, a small and intimate restaurant in Ribeira, offers a charming atmosphere. Ideal for adults seeking a quiet spot, it serves exquisite dishes like seafood rice and sea bass in salt. However, it might not be the best choice for families with small children due to limited space.
9. Brasao: Varied Delights
Overview:
- Location: R. de Ramalho Ortigão 28
- Must-Try: Grilled steak, Francesinha
Description: Brasao stands out for its extensive menu, featuring grilled meat, francesinhas, salads, and more. This restaurant caters to various tastes, making it a great choice for groups with diverse preferences. Offering a blend of local and tourist flavors, Brasao is an affordable option in the city center.
10. Fábrica da Nata: Cream Cake Heaven
Overview:
- Location: Rua de Santa Catarina 331
- Hours: 8 am – 9 pm
- Must-Try: Cream cakes
Description: Indulge your sweet tooth at Fábrica da Nata, a haven for Pasteis de Nata. These cream cakes, priced at €1.10 each, are a delectable treat that will leave you craving more. While also offering sandwiches, pastas, and salads, the star of the show here is undoubtedly the irresistible Pasteis de Nata.
Delve into the heart of Porto’s culinary scene, savoring the authenticity and flavors that make these restaurants beloved by locals. From hidden taverns to elegant eateries, each place promises a unique and memorable dining experience in this vibrant city.