Where To Eat The Best Francesinha in Porto
If there’s one dish in Porto that will steal your heart (and possibly fill your stomach for the rest of the day), it’s the legendary Francesinha.
I remember my first time I ate Francesinha; the tower of layered meats, gooey melted cheese, and that rich, tangy beer based sauce was love at first bite. As I tucked into the hearty sandwich, I knew I had discovered one of the best meals in Proto.
Originating in the 1960s, the Francesinha is said to have been inspired by the French croque-monsieur, but Porto took it up a notch (or ten) with a variety of meats, a fried egg on top, and that signature sauce. Today, it’s a must try for anyone visiting the city.
Top 6 Franceshina Restaurants In Porto
To help you discover the best places to indulge in this Porto classic, I’ve rounded up 6 top reviewed and locally recommended restaurants. Each brings its own twist to the Francesinha while staying true to the dish’s hearty roots.
Café Santiago
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 12:00pm – 10:45pm
Location: Rua de Passos Manuel 226, 4000-382 Porto
Widely considered the gold standard for Francesinha in Porto, Café Santiago has been serving this iconic dish for decades. Their Francesinha is renowned for its perfectly balanced sauce—not too spicy, not too sweet—and generous portions of quality meats.
The bread holds up beautifully under the weight of the toppings and sauce, creating a satisfying bite every time. The lively atmosphere and quick service make it a favourite among both locals and tourists. Be prepared to wait during peak hours, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Bufete Fase
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Location: Rua de Santa Catarina 1147, 40007 – 457 Porto
Bufete Fase is small in size but mighty in reputation. Their Francesinha has a cult following among locals and visitors alike. This unassuming spot focuses on quality over quantity, serving up a Francesinha that’s bursting with flavour. The sauce here is slightly spicier than most, giving it a distinctive kick that keeps diners coming back for more.
Seating is limited, so it’s best to arrive early or be ready to wait. Despite its modest appearance, Bufete Fase delivers one of the most memorable Francesinha experiences in the city.
Cervejaria Brasão
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 12:00pm to 4:30pm | 6:30pm to 11:30pm
Location: R. de Ramalho Ortigão 28, 4000-407 Porto
With several locations across Porto, Brasão offers a slightly more refined take on the Francesinha. Their artisanal approach includes high-quality ingredients like smoked sausage and tender roast beef, layered to perfection. The sauce is velvety, flavourful, and slightly tangy, complementing the richness of the meats.
The cosy, upscale environment adds a touch of elegance to the dining experience, making it a great choice for both casual outings and special occasions. Pair your Francesinha with one of their excellent craft beers for the full Brasão experience.
Lado B Café
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 12:00pm to 4:00pm | 7:00pm to 11:40pm & Satuday 12:00pm to 11:45pm
Location: ao Coliseu, R. de Passos Manuel 190 Frente, 4000-382 Porto
Known for their “Francesinha à Moda do Porto,” Lado B Café puts a contemporary spin on this classic dish. Their Francesinha is a visual masterpiece, with layers of perfectly cooked meats, a golden fried egg on top, and a sauce that’s rich, smoky, and slightly sweet. The portions are generous, and the fries are crisp and well seasoned, making this a complete meal.
The modern, laid-back vibe of the café makes it a popular hangout spot for both locals and visitors.
A Regaleira
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00pm to 3:00pm | 7:00pm to 10:00pm & Sunday 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Location: R. do Bonjardim 83, 4000-124 Porto
A Regaleira is one of the oldest spots serving Francesinha in Porto and claims to have invented the dish in its modern form. Stepping into this restaurant feels like stepping back in time, with its traditional decor and classic atmosphere.
Their Francesinha is a no-frills, authentic version that’s all about bold flavours and hearty portions. The sauce is a standout, striking a perfect balance of spice and richness that’s been perfected over decades. It’s a must visit for anyone wanting to taste a piece of Francesinha history.
Yuko Tavern
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 12:30pm to 2:30pm | 7:00pm to 12:00am & Friday to Sunday 12:30pm to 2:30pm | 7:00pm to 1:00am
Location: Rua de Costa Cabral 2331, 4200-232 Porto
For those looking for a Francesinha with a twist, Yuko Tavern is the place to go. This rustic tavern offers a unique take on the dish, with a sauce that has a distinct kick and bold, smoky undertones.
Their menu includes creative variations, such as vegetarian and seafood options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it an ideal spot for a casual meal with friends.
If you’re up for trying a Francesinha that pushes the boundaries of tradition, Yuko Tavern won’t disappoint.
Whether you’re a Francesinha fanatic or trying it for the first time, Porto offers an abundance of options to satisfy your craving. Each of these spots has its own take on the dish, so why not make a Francesinha tour of the city? Just don’t forget to pair it with a cold Super Bock for the full Porto experience. Bon appétit!
Written By
Ysabelle is the voice behind Oh My Porto, a blog that peels back the glossy pages of travel brochures to reveal the heartbeat of the city. Through Oh My Porto, Ysabelle shares everything you need to make your time in Portugal unforgettable, from cultural deep dives to travel tips you won’t get anywhere else.