We’re starting our best bifanas coverage with Porto due to it being home to our favorite place to have a bifana in all of Portugal (hint: it’s also listed as #1 in this article). Stay tuned for Lisbon soon! True bifana-philes should explore both cities and report back in the comments of this article with their favorite. Among Porto’s local specialties, the bifana stands out as a simple yet irresistible sandwich that has become a beloved staple. Perfect for a quick snack or a casual meal, the bifana is a must-try for anyone exploring Porto’s culinary landscape. Here’s where you can find the best bifanas in Porto.
What Is a Bifana?
The bifana is a straightforward yet flavorful sandwich made with marinated pork, served on a fresh, crusty roll. The pork is typically marinated in a mixture of garlic, spices, and white wine, then cooked until tender and juicy. To add an extra kick, it’s often topped with mustard, chili sauce, or both. This combination makes the bifana a savory, satisfying treat, perfect for any time of day. Pair it with a local beer, and you’ve got a true taste of Porto.
Bifanas are a great value for money and can be found throughout Porto. While each place may put its own spin on the recipe, the essential elements remain consistent. Here’s a guide to some of the best places in Porto to enjoy this delicious pork sandwich.
1. Conga – Casa das Bifanas
Conga, also known as Casa das Bifanas, is an institution in Porto, serving up some of the city’s most famous bifanas since 1976. Located on Rua do Bonjardim, this unassuming eatery has built a reputation for its spicy, juicy pork sandwiches that keep locals and tourists coming back for more. The meat is marinated in a secret blend of spices and cooked to perfection, resulting in a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor.
The bifanas at Conga are a must-try for anyone visiting Porto. The sandwich is served hot, with the pork tender and dripping with savory juices. A dash of mustard or piri piri sauce adds the perfect amount of heat and makes for a truly unforgettable experience. The staff are also playful and professional, ensuring that the Conga line moves quickly so that everyone can enjoy their meal. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before exploring the city or settling in for a casual meal, Conga is our pick for best bifana in the city.
Where: Rua do Bonjardim 318
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 11:30 am-10:00 pm, Closed on Sundays
2. O Astro Cervejaria Petisqueira
O Astro is another iconic spot in Porto, known for its delicious bifanas and lively atmosphere. Located right next to the train and bus station in Companhã, this cervejaria (beer house) is a favorite among locals and very convenient for tourists, offering a range of traditional Portuguese dishes alongside its famous pork sandwiches. The bifanas here are served with a generous helping of mustard and chili sauce, giving them a bold, tangy flavor that goes down even better with a cold beer.
The ambiance at O Astro is warm and welcoming, and the bifanas are made to order, ensuring that they’re always fresh and full of flavor. With its central location and affordable prices, O Astro is a great choice for anyone looking to experience the authentic taste of Porto before or after jumping on the bus or train.
Where: Rua da Estação 16
Opening Hours: Monday-Wednesday 11:00 am-9:00 pm, Thursday-Friday 11:00 am-10:00 pm, Sunday 4:30 pm -10:00 pm, closed on Saturdays
3. Casa Guedes
Casa Guedes is a beloved Porto institution, famous for its roast pork sandwiches, which offer a delicious twist on the traditional bifana. With four locations in the city, including a rooftop location near São Lázaro, this popular chain has been serving up its specialty sandwiches for decades. The pork at Casa Guedes is slow-roasted until it’s incredibly tender and then piled onto a fresh roll. Be sure to try #14, a special pork sandwich with Brie and carmelized onions on a toasted brioche. Your tastebuds can thank us later.
The sandwiches at Casa Guedes are nothing short of legendary with both locals and tourists lining up for a taste. The combination of the rich, flavorful pork with the soft, fresh bread makes for a truly satisfying meal. While the focus here is on roast pork rather than the typical bifana, Casa Guedes is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience one of Porto’s most iconic culinary offerings.
Where: Praça dos Poveiros 130
Opening Hours: Every Day 11:00 am-12:00 am (Hours may vary by location – so please check accordingly)
4. Café Santiago
Café Santiago, located near Porto’s historic center, is famous for its francesinha, but its bifanas are equally worthy of attention. This well-known café offers a variety of Portuguese dishes in a lively, friendly setting. The bifanas here are made with tender pork, marinated and cooked to perfection, then served on a freshly baked roll. The sandwich is often topped with mustard or chili sauce, giving it that extra zing that makes it so irresistible.
The atmosphere at Café Santiago is lively, with both locals and visitors enjoying the hearty food and casual vibe. While the francesinha might steal the spotlight, the bifanas at Café Santiago are an under the radar delight that shouldn’t be missed. If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and try one—you won’t be disappointed. But your first stop here (if you haven’t tried it yet) should be the francesinha.
Where: Rua de Passos Manuel 226
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 12:00 pm-10:45 pm, closed on Sundays
5. A Cozinha do Manel
A Cozinha do Manel is a traditional Portuguese restaurant known for its home-style cooking and welcoming atmosphere. While it’s famous for its hearty dishes, including feijoada and roasted meats, its bifanas are worth mentioning here. The pork is marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic and spices, then grilled to perfection and served on a crusty roll. The result is a sandwich that is incredibly satisfying.
Located in a quieter part of Porto, A Cozinha do Manel provides a more relaxed dining experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The bifanas here are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Porto’s culinary heritage, A Cozinha do Manel is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Where: Rua do HeroÃsmo 215
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 12:30 pm-3:00 pm, 7:30 pm-10:00 pm, Sunday 12:30 pm-3:00 pm, closed on Mondays
Final Thoughts
Porto is a city rich in culinary traditions, and the bifana is a shining example of its simple yet flavorful cuisine. From iconic eateries like Conga and O Astro to hidden gems like A Cozinha do Manel, each of these spots offers a unique take on the classic pork sandwich. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, exploring the bifanas of Porto is a delicious journey that’s sure to leave you craving for more.
