Where to Eat in Porto in 2025: The Best Local Restaurants

Porto might be smaller than Lisbon, but when it comes to flavour, it hits above its weight. This is a city where hearty traditions meet creative kitchens — and where a simple lunch can turn into a full-blown food memory.

From tascas with no-frills charm to revamped eateries dishing out modern takes on classic dishes, the food in Porto is built on comfort, community, and generous portions. Just follow the scent of roast pork or peek through foggy windows to find where the locals are really eating.

Here’s a curated guide to 10 of the best local restaurants in Porto, where you can eat like a true tripeiro — whether you're craving slow-cooked meats, grilled seafood, or the city’s legendary francesinha.

1. Adega São Nicolau (Ribeira)

A firm favourite among chefs and locals alike, Adega São Nicolau is a riverside classic that keeps its standards high despite the touristic setting. Expect seasonal dishes, rich flavours, and one of the best polvo à lagareiro in town.

Address: R. de São Nicolau 1, 4050-561 Porto, Portugal

Average price: 20–30€

Tip: Get there before opening to secure an outdoor table with river glimpses.

2. Restaurante Antunes (Bonfim)

A no-nonsense institution beloved for its pernil assado no forno (roast ham leg), Restaurante Antunes is rustic, hearty, and unapologetically northern. Bring friends, split a bottle of espadal, and leave room for the rabanada dessert.

Address: R. do Bonjardim 614, 4000-124 Porto, Portugal

Average price: 15–20€

Tip: The portions are massive. Sharing is smart.

3. O Buraco (Trindade)

A buzzing lunch spot packed with locals, O Buraco serves up old-school comfort food — think salt cod, grilled fish, and daily-changing dishes written on the wall.

Address: R. do Bolhão 95, 4000-112 Porto, Portugal

Average price: 10–20€

Tip: Visit during the week at lunchtime for the full tasca vibe.

4. Lado B Café (Coliseu)

If you're after a francesinha that hits the spot, Lado B delivers. Gooey, spicy, and unapologetically indulgent, their version of Porto’s signature sandwich is perfect with fries and a cold beer.

Address: R. de Passos Manuel 190 Frente, 4000-382 Porto, Portugal

Average price: 10–15€

Tip: Don’t be shy — ask for extra sauce.

5. Brasão Cervejaria (Aliados or Foz)

A more stylish spin on the francesinha, Brasão combines a moody setting with top-quality ingredients. It’s one of the most popular modern cervejarias in Porto — and for good reason.

Address: Various locations

Average price: 15–25€

Tip: Book ahead — it gets packed.

6. Casa Expresso (Cedofeita)

The ultimate honest eatery. Casa Expresso is a tiny tasca that serves up daily dishes for under 10€, with rotating specials like alheira sausage and simple soups that taste like home.

Address: Praça de Carlos Alberto 73, 4050-158 Porto, Portugal

Average price: 5–10€

Tip: The menu’s on a chalkboard out front. Arrive early.

7. O Rápido (Near São Bento Station)

Don’t let the touristy location fool you — this is real-deal northern food. If you time it right, at O Rápido restaurant you’ll find cabrito assado or tripas à moda do Porto on the day’s specials.

Address: R. da Madeira 194, 4000-330 Porto, Portugal

Average price: 15–25€

Tip: Check their website for which dishes are served on which days.

8. Solar Moinho de Vento (Baixa)

Solar Moinho de Vento is a local tavern that dates back to 1955 and still serves beautifully executed traditional dishes with a refined touch. Try the arroz de costelinha or grilled meats paired with Douro wine.

Address: R. de Sá de Noronha 81, 4050-527 Porto, Portugal

Average price: 25–35€

Tip: Perfect for a slow lunch or celebratory dinner.

9. Restaurante O Lusitano (Matosinhos)

Matosinhos is the place to go for grilled fish — and O Lusitano doesn’t disappoint. Sardines, squid, and sea bass are flame-grilled to perfection, often served with simple sides and a smile.

Address: R. Heróis de França 329, 4450-158 Matosinhos, Portugal

Average price: 20–30€

Tip: Best visited in summer, when sardine season is in full swing.

10. Taberna Cais das Pedras (Ribeira)

A true hidden gem along the Douro, Taberna Cais das Pedras is known for its relaxed atmosphere, riverfront seating, and simple, flavourful dishes. From grilled fish to classic petiscos, the menu is honest and unfussy — just like the view.

Address: R. de Monchique, 4050-394 Porto, Portugal

Average price: 15-20€

Tip: Come early to grab a table outside and soak up the riverside vibe.

Discover the Best of Porto with WhereInRio & Beyond

To eat like a local in Porto is to embrace bold flavours and generous plates. From tasca traditions to chef-led surprises, this city knows how to feed your soul — with or without a francesinha on top.

And if you're looking to live like a local too, check out our handpicked collection of authentic Porto apartments and luxury villas. Perfect for travellers who want to be in the heart of Porto’s rhythm — with a plate (and glass) always within reach.

FAQ

1. What are the best local restaurants in Porto for traditional Portuguese food?

Adega São Nicolau, Restaurante Antunes, and O Buraco are top picks. They serve classics like pernil assado, bacalhau, and hearty stews in a cozy, down-to-earth setting.

2. Where can I find the best francesinha in Porto, Portugal?

Two strong contenders: Lado B for the classic saucy-and-cheesy experience, and Brasão for a more refined, slightly hipster take. Both are worth the calories — just don’t forget the beer.

3. Where can I eat the best francesinha in Portugal?

Porto is home to the original, but some say the best francesinha is actually in Braga. Taberna Belga is a cult favourite there, known for its rich sauce and oversized portions. That said, Lado B and Brasão in Porto remain essential for first-timers.

4. What are the most traditional dishes to try in Porto, Portugal?

Some of the city’s must-try dishes include tripas à moda do Porto (a tripe stew with beans and sausage), bacalhau à Gomes de Sá, rojões (fried pork cubes), and caldo verde soup. These plates tell the story of Porto — rustic, hearty, and made to share.

5. Which restaurants in Porto offer the best views of the Douro River?

Adega São Nicolau has terrace seating with a peek at the river, while Semea by Euskalduna offers a stunning view over the Douro from its relaxed terrace. For a more panoramic dining experience, try Terreiro, right next to São Nicolau, or one of the riverside spots in Gaia.