If you’re visiting Porto, trying a Francesinha is a must. This classic sandwich, packed with meats, cheese, and a rich beer-based sauce, is one of Porto’s most iconic dishes. Locals often enjoy it with a cold beer, and you can even request a “Francesinha sem tampa” (without the top bread). Some places also offer a half portion if you’re not too hungry. From traditional favorites to a great vegan option, here are my top picks for the best Francesinha in Porto.
1. Café Santiago
Café Santiago is often considered one of the places serving the best Francesinha in Porto, attracting both locals and tourists. With three locations, it’s easy to see why this spot has earned legendary status. My personal favorite is Café Santiago da Praça, where you can sit at the bar and watch the chefs prepare Francesinhas. Expect a queue by 7 pm, especially as they don’t take reservations.
- Locations:
- Café Santiago: Rua Passos Manuel 226
- Santiago F: Rua Passos Manuel 198 (opened 2011)
- Café Santiago da Praça: Praça dos Poveiros 88 (opened 2017)
- Price: Francesinha – €10.70
- What makes it special: Popular with tourists and locals, great view of the kitchen at Santiago da Praça
2. Yuko Tavern
For a less touristy but equally delicious Francesinha, head to Yuko Tavern. Known for its standout sauce and wide selection of beers and sangria, Yuko is perfect for those wanting a quieter, more local experience. They also accept reservations, so no need to worry about waiting in line.
- Location: Rua de Costa Cabral 2331, 4200-232 Porto
- Price: Francesinha – €11
- What makes it special: Different beers, excellent sangria, quieter atmosphere
3. Brasão
Brasão is famous for offering one of the best Francesinhas in Porto, with seven locations across the city. My favorite is Brasão Coliseu, which is a great spot for large group dinners. They accept reservations, making it convenient for both locals and tourists. Their Francesinha is known for its slightly thicker sauce and excellent flavor.
- Location: R. de Passos Manuel 205, 4000-385 Porto (Brasão Coliseu, opened 2017)
- Price: Francesinha – €13.20
- What makes it special: Great for groups, thicker sauce, accepts reservations
4. Lado B
Lado B claims to have “The Best Francesinha in the World,” and while I’m not sure about that, I do think it’s a solid choice. With two locations—one near the Coliseu and another in Mercado do Bom Sucesso—Lado B also offers a great vegetarian Francesinha. You can reserve a table at either location.
- Locations:
- Lado B Coliseu: Rua Passos Manuel, 190
- Lado B Mercado do Bom Sucesso: Praça do Bom Sucesso, 4150-145 Porto
- Price: Francesinha – €10.65
- What makes it special: Vegetarian Francesinha, convenient locations, accepts reservations
5. Cufra
Serving Francesinhas since 1974, Cufra is a classic spot for trying one of the best traditional Francesinhas in Porto. It’s a more local, less touristy option where you can still find the traditional flavor that has remained unchanged for decades. They also accept reservations.
- Location: Av. da Boavista 2504, 4100-119 Porto
- Price: Francesinha – €11.50
- What makes it special: Long-standing tradition, local favorite, accepts reservations
Best Vegan Francesinha in Porto: Padoca Vegan Restaurant
For a delicious vegan Francesinha, take a short trip across the river to Padoca Vegan Restaurant in Vila Nova de Gaia. Their Francesinha sauce is my absolute favorite, and it’s worth the metro ride. I first learned about them at Veggie Fest.
- Location: R. Pádua Correia 261, 4400-238 Vila Nova de Gaia
- Price: Francesinha – €14.50
- What makes it special: Best vegan Francesinha sauce, close to a metro station (João de Deus stop).
Ready to Try the best Francesinha in Porto?
Porto offers plenty of options to try the best Francesinha in Porto, whether you want to go traditional or vegan. My personal favorite sauce is from Padoca Vegan Restaurant, but if you’re introducing a friend to the Francesinha, Café Santiago da Praça would be my top recommendation.
So, grab a beer, order your Francesinha, and enjoy one of Porto’s tastiest traditions!
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