If you’re in Porto and someone offers you a “little French girl”, don’t laugh, it’s not a joke, it means you’re about to bite into one of Portugal’s true culinary monuments: the francesinha! This sandwich, buried under an avalanche of beer-tomato sauce, melted cheese and layers of meat, is the ultimate comfort food for the people of Porto. Yes, it sounds heavy (and trust me, it is), but it’s also absolutely delicious. I’m talking to you like I would to a friend: put on your sneakers, save some room for dessert (yes, you’ll still want it), and go discover these unmissable spots !

Café Santiago

There’s no starting this list without mentioning it. Café Santiago, on Rua Passos Manuel, is the home of the francesinha in Porto. Locals call it “the original” and rightly so. It’s simple, unpretentious (you’re here to eat, not to pose), and yes, there’s often a line, but it’s worth every minute. Here, you’ll get the classic version: toasted bread, steak, sausage, ham, all covered in melted cheese and drenched in that legendary sauce. For lovers of tradition, it’s a must, a truly Portuguese setting included.

Tip: go at lunchtime to avoid the crowd.

Cervejaria Brasão

For a more modern yet still faithful version of the francesinha, Brasão is a top choice. Here, you’ll find slightly more gourmet interpretations, but the spirit remains the same: rich flavors, great atmosphere, and that dangerously addictive sauce. It’s a perfect option if you want to mix things up a bit.

Bonus : order a cold local beer (or, if you don’t drink alcohol, go for a Sumol or a Pedras Salgadas de limão); it’s the perfect match for your sandwich.

Lado B Café

Younger, trendier vibes, good music, and a francesinha that still stands tall among the best in the city. Lado B Café is ideal for those who like a slightly revisited version or simply a more relaxed place than a super traditional café. The decor’s cool, the crowd’s lively but really, it’s the sandwich that steals the show.

Francesinha Café

Here, it’s all about quality ingredients and a more “refined” take on the classic dish. If you want to enjoy a francesinha away from the tourist traps, Francesinha Café is a great bet. Take your time, order a beer, and savor every bite.

Bufete Fase

To wrap up this list, a simple, no-frills spot where the francesinha is nothing short of an institution: Bufete Fase. Everything here is local, honest, and straight to the point. You don’t go for the Instagram shot (well, you can if you want to), you go for the flavor, for that “Porto on a plate” experience.

A few tips to help you choose

If it’s your first francesinha, go to Café Santiago or Brasão.
If you’re after a more relaxed vibe, try Lado B or Francesinha Café.
If you want to eat like a true local, Bufete Fase is the place.

And here’s a little secret between us : wherever you go, pair it with a beer or a glass of wine. Because yes, this is so much more than just a sandwich !

So, get ready ! A francesinha can be intimidating, and yes, it’s a lot. But it’s also incredibly tasty. And just a warning : after one of these, you probably won’t be hungry again for the rest of the day.

Bom apetite !