25 Best Porto Foods To Try in 2025
Beyond stunning views, perfect weather and a rich cultural scene, Portugal is famous for its vibrant cuisine, and Porto food is no exception. From bold, traditional dishes to fresh seafood and mouth watering pastries, the city offers endless delicious options to explore.
According to National Geographic, “With an extravagant new wine-themed attraction and a galaxy of top-quality restaurants, Portugal's second city is sending out a siren call to food enthusiasts.” Whether you're a food adventurer seeking new flavors or just curious about the local scene, there’s something here to satisfy every curiosity and craving that has made visitors flock to Porto for centuries.
Today, Porto remains a top destination for food enthusiasts. With a variety of dishes that highlight the best of Portuguese cuisine, the city invites you to dive into its flavorful food scene. Ready to discover Porto’s most delectable dishes? Here’s your guide to the best Porto food to savor during your visit.
Jump to Section
What Food Is Porto Known For?
Porto food is an exciting mix of hearty stews, fresh seafood and indulgent pastries, all packed with bold flavors. Dishes like Francesinha, a rich layered sandwich, and tripas à moda do Porto, a savory tripe stew, are local classics that showcase the city’s unique culinary identity. Fresh seafood, particularly bacalhau (salted cod) and tempting pastries like pastéis de nata are also must-tries.
To truly experience the best of Porto’s food scene, food tours in Porto are the way to go. With the help of a local guide, you’ll uncover hidden gems, sample iconic dishes and learn the stories behind the flavors that make Porto food unforgettable.
The 25 Best Foods in Porto, Portugal
1. Tripas à Moda Do Porto
Tripas à moda do Porto is a signature dish that captures the heart of Porto’s food scene. This rich stew features veal tripe, smoked pork sausage, white beans and vegetables, all simmered with aromatic spices for a deeply savory flavor.
The dish's origin is popularly linked to the 15th century when Porto residents, it's said, donated their meat supplies to Prince Henry the Navigator's expeditions, leaving them with only tripe to consume. Today, it’s a staple in local cafés and restaurants, where you can dive into its history and flavor with every bite.
2. Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá
If you're in Porto and craving something truly local, bacalhau à Gomes de Sá is a must-try. This traditional Porto food features salted cod, potatoes, onions, eggs and olives, all baked into a casserole. Though similar to the more widely known bacalhau à brás, this dish has a distinct preparation and flavor profile that reflects Porto’s culinary heritage. It's often found in casual spots around the city, but you can also enjoy it at more refined restaurants that give the dish its own twist.
3. Caldo Verde
A bowl of caldo verde is pure Porto food comfort. This soul-warming soup, made with potatoes, kale (or cabbage) and hearty sausage, is the city's go-to dish during the Festival of St. John — where it's devoured in the streets alongside dancing and wine. Caldo verde is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, served with crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that rich, flavorful broth.
But don’t wait for the festival to roll around — this dish is a staple you can find year-round in Porto. Whether you're fueling up after a day of exploring or seeking a comforting meal, caldo verde delivers all the warmth and satisfaction you could ask for.
4. Arroz de Marisco
If you’re craving a taste of the sea and on the hunt for the best food in Porto, arroz de marisco has got you covered. This classic Porto food is a seafood rice dish that’ll make your tastebuds do a happy dance. Overflowing with clams, lobster, shrimp and mussels, it’s a feast that blends tender short-grain rice with a rich, savory broth. Think of it as Porto’s seafood love letter — bold, briny and totally irresistible.
Dubbed one of Portugal's seven wonders of gastronomy (alongside caldo verde and pastel de Belém), this dish is a delicious option to add to your foodie bucket list. Pro tip: Pair it with a glass of vinho verde for the ultimate coastal experience, even if you're not near the ocean.
5. Gambas al Ajillo
For a bite of Portugal that’s garlicky, buttery and downright addictive, look no further than gambas al ajillo. Think shrimp sautéed in sizzling olive oil, a punch of garlic, a hint of heat from chilis and fresh herbs all swimming together in perfect harmony. It’s as simple as it sounds — and yet, it’s one of those dishes that keeps you coming back for more.
Whether you’re enjoying this garlicky goodness in one of Porto’s best seafood joints or whipping it up at home, gambas al ajillo is an essential part of any Porto food adventure. So, if you’ve got a thing for shrimp, don’t sleep on this!
6. Alheira
Porto food isn’t just delicious — it’s full of surprises. Case in point: alheira, a smoky, garlic sausage with a backstory as rich as its flavor. Unlike your typical sausage, this one ditches the all-pork formula for a mix of meats like chicken, veal or even game, all held together with breadcrumbs, onions and herbs.
Pan-fried or grilled until crispy, alheira is best enjoyed with a fried egg on top and a side of golden potatoes. Pair it with a glass of bold Portuguese red and you’ve got a meal that’s equal parts exciting and indulgent.
7. Bacalhau com Natas
Portuguese cuisine is all about turning simple ingredients into something spectacular, and bacalhau com natas is proof. The food scene in Porto, Portugal is centered around salted cod, but in this dish, they turn it into something totally decadent. Imagine this: layers of salt cod, creamy potatoes, onions and a rich, velvety cream sauce all baked to a crispy goodness.
This dish is like a Portuguese lasagna — if lasagna were an ocean breeze and you could pair it with a glass of chilled white wine amidst breathtaking views. Topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg, garlic and fresh herbs, bacalhau com natas is plain old comfort food with an elegant twist.
8. Bolinhos de Bacalhau
If you've ever thought to yourself, “Why can’t cod be a snack?” then bolinhos de bacalhau, aka Portuguese codfish balls, have your back. These crispy, golden delights are a blend of salt cod and potato, perfectly seasoned and deep-fried to perfection. Think of them like a Portuguese version of croquettes but with a little more swagger.
Bolinhos de bacalhau come in a quenelle shape, but don't let the elegance fool you — they’re a crunchy, soft salty masterpiece that demands to be devoured hot or cold. The key to this Porto food is a perfectly crispy exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior.
9. Sardinhas
When it comes to Porto food, it’s not just about cod. When summer rolls in, sardines take over, sizzling away on outdoor grills like the rockstars of the seafood world. Sardinhas assadas are sardines grilled to perfection, with a little char on the skin and a whole lot of flavor. But don’t be fooled by their size. These little fish pack a punch, especially when paired with crispy fried potatoes and a scoop of rice.
10. Rissóis
If you’ve never tried rissóis, you’re in for a treat. Picture this: crispy, golden pockets of pastry stuffed with everything from savory veal to fish and cheese. This Porto food is like the European version of a dumpling but with more crunch and even more flavor. These little pockets of joy are a beloved snack, perfect for enjoying on the go or as a side dish to any meal. Typically enjoyed with a cold drink in hand, rissóis are the go-to comfort food after a long day of sightseeing or a night out in the city.
11. Serra da Estrela Cheese
Visitors from all across the globe rank Porto highly as one of the best foodie cities. However, this isn’t just due to the city’s sizzling meats and fresh seafood — it’s also home to some seriously indulgent cheeses. Serra da Estrela is a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth cheese that’s basically Portugal’s answer to fondue, no pot required. Made from the milk of sheep that graze on wildflowers in the Serra da Estrela mountains, this cheese is rich, buttery and just the right amount of funky.
In Porto food joints, you’ll find it served with honey, fig or quince, creating the ultimate sweet-and-savory combo. This dish is a rare vegetarian-friendly option in a city that really loves its meat — so if you’re looking for a break from all the sausages, this is your moment.
12. Cachorrinho
Take a break from Porto’s scenic strolls and sink your teeth into a cachorrinho, the city’s spicy, no-nonsense take on the hot dog. This isn’t your average street snack — thin, crispy bread hugs juicy, paprika-spiked sausage, grilled and drenched in a mouthwatering, tangy sauce.
You’ll find cachorrinhos sizzling away in casual tascas and late-night joints all over Porto food spots. Pair it with an ice-cold beer, embrace the inevitable sauce stains and consider it a rite of passage into Porto’s food scene.
13. Salada de Polvo
If you think Portuguese food is only about meat and carbs, think again — salada de polvo is here to keep things light, fresh and downright delicious. This octopus salad is a masterclass in simplicity: tender, perfectly braised octopus tossed with garlic, onions and parsley, then hit with a zesty splash of lemon and silky olive oil.
14. Pastéis de Chaves
Flaky, golden and packed with flavor, pastéis de Chaves is the delicious twist you didn’t know your Porto food journey needed. Originating from the northern town of Chaves, this pastry brings savory and sweet together in perfect harmony.
This crescent-shaped pastry ditches the usual sweet custard for a rich, savory filling of minced veal, herbs and breadcrumbs. Think of it as the rebellious cousin of Portugal’s famous egg tarts. For a true taste of Porto food, enjoy it warm for that extra crisp, or sprinkle it with cinnamon and sugar to indulge your sweet tooth.
15. Cozido à Portuguesa
Some dishes are a love letter to slow cooking, and cozido à Portuguesa is one of them. This meaty masterpiece brings the best of Porto food together in one recipe. This dish is a “kitchen sink” stew where pork, beef, chicken and an array of smoked sausages get cozy with cabbage, carrots and potatoes in a bubbling pot of flavor. Need more? Some variations throw additional ingredients like turnips, beans and rice — because in Porto’s food scene, more is more.
16. Pastéis de Nata
When it comes to pastéis de nata, Porto’s unique food culture puts its own spin on the classic. While Belém gets credit for inventing the iconic Portuguese egg tart, the bakers in Porto decided to elevate the recipe by adding a touch of the city’s renowned rich wine directly into the batter.
You can find these tarts everywhere in Porto, whether at local bakeries or street-side kiosks. And while the traditional pastel de nata is always a crowd-pleaser, the Porto version stands out by combining the city's two signature flavors: sweet, eggy pastry and the bold richness of Port wine. Paired with a coffee or a glass of Port, this dessert is the perfect way to experience Porto food culture in a bite-sized delight.
17. Francesinha
If you’re ready to take on a Porto food classic, the Francesinha is the sandwich you’re looking for. This beast features layers of chorizo, ham and steak (sometimes all three), piled between two slices of thick bread, and then drowned in melted cheese.
But that’s not all. The pièce de résistance in this Porto food is a rich, tomato-based gravy that smothers the entire creation, adding the perfect hit of umami. Top it off with a fried egg for that extra gooey indulgence.
18. Bifana
The bifana is a Porto food staple and a testament to Portugal's mantra that when it comes to food, simplicity wins every time. Thin slices of pork are marinated in garlic, paprika and white wine, then slow-cooked to a juicy texture before being tucked into a soft yet crusty roll.
This Porto food dish has no gimmicks, no unnecessary toppings — just pure, flavorful goodness. Locals will tell you the only way to eat it is with a cold beer, preferably while standing at the counter of a bustling tasca, soaking up the city’s energy one bite at a time.
19. Éclair
Porto food offers more than just the famous pastel de nata — its éclairs have been a local favorite for generations. These pastries are filled with fresh Chantilly cream and coated in rich chocolate, creating a perfect balance of lightness and indulgence. With flavors ranging from classic milk chocolate to zesty lemon and crunchy croquant, this sweet Porto food showcases the city’s dedication to high-quality, time-honored desserts.
20. Peixinhos da Horta
Peixinhos da Horta may look like Japanese tempura, but they have deep roots in Portuguese cuisine. Despite the name — literally “little fish from the garden” — there’s no seafood involved in this unique Porto food, just a perfectly light and crunchy vegetarian snack that’s impossible to resist. These crispy, golden bites of breaded and fried green beans date back centuries and were actually the inspiration for Japan’s beloved tempura, introduced by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century.
21. Canned Fish
In Porto food culture, canned fish is more than just a pantry staple. From sardines and anchovies to mackerel, these preserved fish are packed into beautifully decorated cans that make for the perfect souvenir. Whether it’s mackerel in mustard sauce, sardines in olive oil with oregano or mussels in red pickled sauce, you’ll find an array of bold flavors.
If you're not taking a few cans home, grab a selection and pair them with some crusty bread, or make them a side to any Porto food for a quick and easy picnic in the city while enjoying beautiful views of the Douro River.
22. Jesuítas
On your next trip to this stunning seaside city, make sure you grab a Jesuítas, another one of the city’s signature pastries, along with egg tarts and éclairs. With a flaky, golden crust and rich fillings like custard, chocolate ganache or even homemade jam, Jesúistas are a must-try for anyone looking to savor authentic food in Porto, Portugal. These sweet puff-pastry treasures come in many shapes and sizes and are exclusive to Porto’s food scene, crafted with the finest ingredients and a whole lot of care.
23. Broa de Avintes
Broa de Avintes is a golden loaf of pure comfort that’ll have you questioning every diet plan you’ve ever followed. Made with cornmeal, wheat flour, olive oil and a touch of lard, this traditional Portuguese bread offers a perfect balance of textures.
The outer crust is golden and crackly, while the inside is soft, moist and just a bit sweet, creating a delightful contrast that complements any meal. Whether you enjoy it with a hearty soup, pair it with a flavorful stew or simply savor it with butter or honey, Broa de Avintes is a delicious highlight when exploring Porto food.
24. Bola de Berlim
If you’re craving something sweet and satisfying while exploring the city, the bola de Berlim is the treat for you. This Portuguese pastry, brought over from Germany, is far from your typical donut. This Porto food is larger, sweeter and filled with either doce de ovos — a rich, creamy egg yolk filling — or a decadent chocolate filling.
Ideal for a midday snack or an indulgent treat while wandering the streets, this Porto food is sure to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy it fresh and warm, straight from the bakery, and discover why it’s such a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
25. Tarte de Amêndoa
The Tarte de Amêndoa is a slice of Porto’s sweet heritage that you won’t forget. With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust and a smooth almond custard filling, this tart is an undeniable standout amongst Portuguese desserts.
Topped with crunchy, caramelized almonds, each bite is perfectly balanced between sweet and nutty. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or as a sweet note to end a meal, this tart brings together the best of Porto food in a bite-sized package. Pair it with your favorite coffee or enjoy it solo — either way, this almond tart is a sweet way to experience the flavors and food of Porto.
Learn To Cook Porto Food
Are you planning a trip to Portugal? Whether you're perfecting the art of making a francesinha or learning to cook the freshest seafood dishes, cooking classes in Porto offer a hands-on way to dive deep into the local food culture during a visit. Led by passionate chefs, these experiences help you discover the best food in Porto while gaining insight into the city's rich culinary history.
If you're not able to visit, don't worry, you can still master the craft of Portuguese cuisine. With cooking classes near you or online cooking classes, it's easy to learn how to recreate Porto dishes and other Portuguese classics from your own kitchen. These classes give you the tools to bring the flavors of Porto food right to your home, no passport required.
Porto's food scene is a true reflection of the city's rich history and diverse culture. From hearty stews to fresh seafood and decadent pastries, the flavors are as vibrant as the city itself. Whether you're savoring a plate of bacalhau or enjoying a pastel de nata, Porto offers a culinary experience that will leave you craving more. When you visit, make sure to grab a glass of Port wine, take in wondrous sights and, most importantly, indulge in its iconic dishes — and discover why this city continues to be a top destination for food lovers from around the world.
For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT?
Join the conversation.