When you hear about Porto and its local food, there is of course one of the iconic Portuguese dishes that you can skip, one that few can rival the hearty and indulgent spicy rich flavors, the Francesinha. Originating in Porto, this “decadent” sandwich is a beloved staple of the city’s culinary scene, enticing visitors and locals alike with its layers of meat, cheese, and spicy sauce. To help you navigate the bustling landscape of Francesinha eateries, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten restaurants in Porto where you can sample this mouthwatering delicacy. These restaurants are not only delicious options, but they are also recommended and approved by the locals, the homework is done. Just please don’t try to eat them all in the same day, is that even possible?
1. Restaurante A Regaleira
Nestled in the heart of Porto, Restaurante A Regaleira is renowned for its classic take on the Francesinha. Using only the finest ingredients, including succulent cuts of meat and rich, flavorful sauce, this restaurant has earned a reputation for serving up some of the best Francesinhas in the city. With its cozy ambiance and attentive service, A Regaleira offers a dining experience that’s as memorable as the dish itself.
They claim to be where it all started, the birth of Francesinha, for sure it is one of the best out there.
Address: Rua do Bonjardim 87, 4000-126 Porto.
Good To Know Fact: Restaurante A Regaleira also offers a vegetarian version of the Francesinha for those with dietary restrictions.
2. Casa Guedes
For a more rustic take on the Francesinha, look no further than Casa Guedes. This charming eatery is famous for its slow-roasted pork sandwiches, which serve as the perfect base for their indulgent Francesinhas. Topped with gooey cheese and smothered in spicy sauce, Casa Guedes’ Francesinhas are a true taste of Porto’s culinary heritage.
Address: Praça Poveiros 130, 4000-091 Porto.
They have 4 locations, but this is the traditional place with a more “Local” feeling.
Good To Know Fact: Casa Guedes offers outdoor seating, allowing diners to soak up the atmosphere of Porto’s vibrant streets while enjoying their meal. While you are there, try the Roasted Pork Leg Sheep Cheese sandwich, it’s amazing, and also good to share halfsies if you are not alone.
3. Restaurante Abadia
Situated in the historic Ribeira district, Restaurante Abadia is a favorite haunt for locals craving a satisfying Francesinha. With its cozy interior and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant exudes old-world charm. But it’s the mouthwatering flavors of their Francesinhas that keep customers coming back for more, time and time again.
Address: R. de São João Novo 33, 4050-493 Porto.
Good To Know Fact: Restaurante Abadia offers a variety of toppings for their Francesinhas, allowing diners to customize their sandwich to their liking.
4. Restaurante Líder
For a taste of tradition, head to Restaurante Líder. This long-standing establishment has been serving up delicious francesinhas for decades, earning a loyal following of fans in the process. With its no-nonsense approach to cooking and generous portions, Restaurante Líder is the perfect place to indulge in this iconic Porto dish. If you are into wines, they will also pair a perfect wine for a perfect meal. This restaurant not only offers great francesinhas but other amazing local dishes like “Tripas à moda do Porto” based on meat or “Açorda de Gambas com Lagosta” if you are into seafood.
Address: 120/130, Alameda de Eça de Queirós 120, Porto.
Good To Know Fact: Restaurante Líder also offers a takeaway service, making it easy to enjoy their delicious Francesinhas on the go. If you are into desserts, a pudding called “Pudim abade priscos” is a must try.
5. Cozinha do Manel
This is a restaurant where I feel the past, this would be the type of restaurant my father would take me for lunch, we would sit on the “countertop”, and the genteman would come, prepare the “table” and feeling all those smells of the “Portuguese food” with all the available wines and sizzling hotplate coming was just an unforgettable experience. Located in the bustling Bolhão market, Cozinha do Manel is a hidden gem beloved by locals for its mouthwatering Francesinhas. Made with locally sourced ingredients and cooked to perfection, these sandwiches are a true testament to Porto’s culinary prowess. With its lively atmosphere and affordable prices, Cozinha do Manel is a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic taste of Porto.
Address: Rua do Heroísmo 215, 4300-255 Porto.
Good To Know Fact: Cozinha do Manel offers a range of traditional Portuguese dishes alongside their famous Francesinhas, allowing diners to sample a variety of flavors. They have also a nice wine selection at affordable prices and a mean dessert called “Aletria“.
6. A Cunha
Known for its oversized portions, A Cunha is a favorite spot for those with hearty appetites. Their Francesinhas are no exception, towering over the plate with layers of meat, cheese, and sauce. Despite its generous size, A Cunha’s Francesinha never compromises on flavor, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Porto. In A Cunha they offer 3 different of Francesinha, if you want to eat a different Francesinha, I recommend the “Francesinha de Leitão” which is made of Piglet, it’s delicious.
Address: R. Outeiro da Ramalde 8, 4100-369 Porto.
Good To Know Fact: A Cunha also offers a selection of craft beers to complement their indulgent Francesinhas, creating the perfect pairing for a satisfying meal.
7. Lado B
Vegetarians need not miss out on the Francesinha experience, thanks to Lado B. This innovative eatery specializes in vegetarian and vegan versions of Porto’s most iconic dishes, including the Francesinha. Using plant-based ingredients and creative flavor combinations, Lado B proves that meat-free doesn’t mean flavor-free when it comes to this beloved sandwich.
Address: R. de Passos Manuel 190 Frente, 4000-382 Porto | Praça do Bom Sucesso 74-90, 4150-145 Porto.
Good To Know Fact: Lado B’s vegetarian Francesinha is so delicious that even meat lovers are often converted after just one bite.
8. Café Santiago
No list of the best Francesinhas in Porto would be complete without mentioning Café Santiago. This legendary establishment has been serving up mouthwatering sandwiches since 1959, earning a reputation as one of the city’s top destinations for Francesinha enthusiasts. With its cozy interior and friendly service, Café Santiago offers a dining experience that’s as satisfying as its signature dish. Some Travel websites considered this sandwich to be one of the Top 50 in the world. I haven’t tried all the other 49, but I can guarantee this one is a must not miss when in Porto.
Address: Rua de Passos Manuel 226, 4000-382 Porto.
Good To Know Fact: Café Santiago’s Francesinha is so popular that they offer a takeaway service for customers on the go.
9. Bufete Fase
Bufete Fase is a hidden gem tucked away in Porto’s historic center. This unassuming eatery may not look like much from the outside, but inside, diners are treated to some of the city’s best Francesinhas. Made with care and attention to detail, Bufete Fase’s sandwiches are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality and flavor.
Address: R. de Santa Catarina 1147, 4000-447 Porto.
Good To Know Fact: Bufete Fase is known for its no-frills approach to dining, focusing instead on delivering delicious food at affordable prices.
10. Cervejaria Brasão
Rounding out our list is Cervejaria Brasão, a stylish gastropub known for its innovative take on the Francesinha. With its sleek decor and extensive beer selection, this restaurant offers a modern twist on Porto’s classic dish. But don’t let the contemporary setting fool you—Cervejaria Brasão’s Francesinha is every bit as delicious and satisfying as its more traditional counterparts.
Address: R. de Ramalho Ortigão 28, 4000-407 Porto.
Good To Know Fact: Cervejaria Brasão offers a range of gourmet toppings for their Francesinhas, allowing diners to customize their sandwich to their liking.
In conclusion, Porto’s Francesinha scene is as diverse as it is delicious, with each restaurant offering its own unique take on this beloved dish from different meat selections to even vegetarian options. Whether you prefer a classic interpretation or a modern twist, you’re sure to be well served in these restaurants above mentioned offered also at different prices, so hopefully for everyone’s pockets.
