Seven Sandwiches That Will Change Your Life… and Your Waistline!

Hours after landing in Porto, Portugal, I found myself reclining on a shaded platform deck, sangria in hand, enjoying spectacular 360-degree views of the mighty Douro River. It had been pleasant, uneventful flight; and, until that moment, I hadn’t given much thought about supper plans. Thankfully, I’m in Porto and finding awesome, last-minute meals is never a problem.

Porto is home to some of Portugal’s most incredible food. Why? Just look around! This soulful city in Portugal’s northwest rests along the banks of the mighty Douro River, which zigzags east to its namesake wine region, ribbed with steep, terraced vineyards that yield citrusy whites, robust reds and the world’s finest ports. Hammering Portos west coast, the Atlantic brings the freshest fish and shellfish to tables across the city while the mountains and fertile valleys to the east produces exceptionally-cured meats and delicious cheeses made from goat’s and sheep’s milk.

Behold: The seven Portuguese sandwiches that will change your life, along with your waistline.

1. Bifana

Eaten essentially at any time of day, the Bifana is a staple snack food across Portugal. Strips of pork shaved thin, boiled and then stewed in a sauce that ranges from fiery hot to slightly zesty, this stacked pork sandwich is juicy and delicious. Lots of places in Porto make them but, if you want the best of the best, head to Conga. You’re welcome.

2. Any Sandwich from A Sandeira do Porto

Surprisingly cozy, A Sandeira is one of the hidden gems of Porto. So hidden, in fact, that I had to double back to find it. Situated on one of Porto’s typically narrow streets, A Sandeira quickly became one of my favorite hangouts. It’s small Each sandwich is named for an iconic site in Porto. While every sandwich in A Sandeira is smack-yo-mama-backwards delicious, these two sandwiches were standouts for me: Bring cash. A Sandeira doesn’t accept credit cards.in one of those narrow and typical streets, this cozy space will definitely surprise you with its creative decor and fresh flavors. Each sandwich was named after iconic places in the city of Porto, so you can taste Clèrigos which is prepared with olive paste, feta cheese, tomato and basil or Douro with ingredients like chicken, goat cheese and apple. Who knew Porto could taste so delicious?

3. Tiborna

In Portugal, tiborna is the ultimate rustic snack: A celebration of simplicity done right. The beauty of tiborna is its versatility. It always starts with a thick slice of bread toasted to perfection and drenched in freshly-pressed olive oil, but the toppings vary by region. Traditional versions might feature garlic, salt or cured fish like sardines while modern takes like this one that I ordered often include tuna (especially along the coast), onions, tomatoes or even olives. While tuna isn’t the classic topping from old olive harvest days, it’s become a popular and delicious variation.

4. Empadas

While not technically a sandwich, empadas are individually-sized, handheld and eaten warm or at room temperature — and insanely delicious!

5. Prego No Pão

A close cousin to the bifana, the prego no pão is a sandwich made of marinated beef popular all over Portugal. Prego means “nail” in Portuguese, and some say the name comes from the garlic bits that are ‘nailed’ into the meat when it’s being pounded. Others say it is the namesake of Manuel Dias Prego, a 19th century tavern owner in Sintra who sold wine and meat sandwiches. Like the bifana, the prego comes in many variations. We had a simple piece of steak inside a soft roll for dessert after a seafood meal and a dressed up version as our entire meal. Portuguese often enjoy the afternoon snack of a prego and beer. The marinade can vary in spices and liquids, but one thing you will always find included is garlic.

6. Tosta Mista

Another sandwich found all over Portugal is the simple but elegant tosta mista. A humble toasted ham and cheese sandwich, it’s a super tasty budget saver. Portuguese sometimes have a tosta mista for breakfast with a coffee. Sometimes it’s a lunch special served with potato chips or fries, soup, or salad. It often comes with a large pat of butter on top that melts and gives you deliciously greasy fingers. Tosta mista can be a pressed bread sandwich or served on a toasted roll. Upscale establishments may push the envelope using Black Forest or turkey ham. But the cheese will usually be perfectly melty Queijo Flamengo. Modeled after Dutch Edam, it’s Portugal’s answer to American cheese. We love having a killer tosta mista at local hangouts like Gingas near where we spent our first few months in Portugal, along with a small (imperial) glass of ice cold Portuguese beer.

7. The Francesinha

Meet my monster, Francesinha. Porto’s distinctive take on France’s croque-monsieur is my favorite! Traditionally associated with Porto, Francesinha is one of the most famous sandwiches in Portugal. Definitely not for the calorie-shy, this sandwich consists of layers of ham, sausage and steak stacked in between toasted slices of bread and then topped with melted cheese. You can also opt to add a fried egg, if you like. Sure, you can find a Francesinha at a number of cafes in and around Porto, but do yourself a favor and head over to Aquele Tasso. It is to die!