Top 6 Tascas in Porto

When we're on the move, we often have little time and are reluctant to spend money when going out. That's when street food becomes a convenient and economical option. In Porto, there are a variety of snacks, or "petiscos" available in the charming taverns, or as we know as "tascas", scattered around the city, each with its unique flavors and aromas. 

Here are six tempting suggestions to tantalize your taste buds and make your culinary adventures in Porto truly unforgettable.

The name "Escondidinho do Barredo" lives up to its name. First of all, it's hidden - there's no sign at the entrance, not even a menu. This Ribeira tavern has been a secret for over 70 years, with its interior varying between empty and full. If the room is empty, there will always be someone (or many people) to keep you company. When you enter, you see the small kitchen and the counter, where you can already see some delicious dishes on display, but with the most popular dishes being freshly prepared. The concise, unique menu, which circulates between the tables, offers around 20 delicacies, such as papas de sarrabulho (typical Portuguese dish made by cooking pig's blood, meat, spices and bread or cornstarch into a thick purée), sardines in escabeche, fried cuttlefish, rissoles, octopus, fried cod steaks, and much more. This fantastic "tasca" is well worth a visit.

In second place we have “Casa Guedes”, famous in Porto for its delicious ham sandwich. In 1987, the Correia brothers bought "Snack Bar Guedes" and served budget meals, roast pork shank, hot dogs, and so praised “Francesinhas”. The main restaurant can accommodate around 350 people and has over 70 employees who work together to welcome customers. This space attracts customers from surrounding areas due to limited seating elsewhere, with people preferring it to avoid long queues. This place has a heated terrace, ideal for students or large groups of friends, as well as three floors. The ground floor is great for quick meals, especially at lunchtime for office workers, while the second floor is good for families and birthday parties, with a larger size and a removable roof for summer, creating an indoor terrace. The top floor is reserved for the rooftop, with about 60 to 70 table seats, a cocktail and sangria bar, and a lovely view of Praça dos Poveiros and the city.

Thirdly, the establishment we recommend is "Conga", a renowned restaurant located in downtown Porto, on Bonjardim Street. Founded in 1958 by Agostinho Lopes, "Conga" gained fame for its specialty dish, the famous "Bifanas", a sandwich with sliced mead, prepared with a unique and tasty seasoning on a bun. This restaurant underwent a significant transformation in 2012, updating its image and decor to create a more contemporary and open atmosphere for its customers.

In fourth place on our list is the famous "Gazela Snack Bar". Located on Travessa do Cima de Vila in the city of Porto, this historic establishment is famous for its signature dish, the "Cachorrinhos", which are essentially delicious hot dogs. Over the years, the snack bar has received numerous prestigious awards, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination for any culinary exploration of Porto.

Next is "Tasca Casa Louro" in downtown Porto, on Cimo de Vila Street. This is where they offer authentic Portuguese food, with a real commitment to serving quality food to passers-by. You can enjoy Portuguese sardines, ham sandwiches, and traditional meat and fish snacks. Tasca Casa Louro" is described as a northern institution, a mix of bar and restaurant, with a small menu of rustic snacks, especially ham. An interesting fact about this place is the many legs hanging from the ceiling, which remind us of the tradition behind the meat to which the Portuguese are so used.

In our exploration of Porto's most famous "tascas", we finish with "Adega Viseu", located on Madeira Street. This establishment is celebrated for its charming terrace, which offers customers a delightful glimpse into the daily life of the vibrant city of Porto. Visitors will certainly be delighted not only with the authentic traditional Portuguese cuisine served here but also with the variety of delicious snacks that embody our rich culinary and cultural heritage. Here, customers have the opportunity to savor the true essence of Portuguese cuisine: delicious food, pleasant company, and the wonderful art of group dining.