7 Must-Visit Tascas in Porto: Authenticity, Tradition, and Great Food

Porto is famous for its rich and authentic gastronomy, and tascas — small, family-run traditional restaurants — are the perfect spots to experience the genuine flavors of Porto’s cuisine. In tascas, you’ll find traditional dishes such as francesinha, Porto-style tripe, codfish, and a variety of petiscos (small bites), always served in a cozy atmosphere with affordable prices. If you're looking for authentic experiences and true flavors, here are 7 must-visit tascas in Porto.

Adega São Nicolau

Location: Rua de São Nicolau, 1, Ribeira

Description:Located in the Ribeira area, this tasca offers a fantastic view of the Douro River while serving high-quality traditional dishes. It’s a small and cozy restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere, offering a range of fresh fish and well-prepared meats. Reservations are recommended, as it’s a very popular spot.

Recommended dishes:Bacalhau à Braga (Braga-style codfish), polvo à lagareiro (roasted octopus), and Porto-style tripe.

Casa Nanda

Location: Rua Conde Alto Mearim, 1229, Matosinhos

Description:: Embora localizada em Matosinhos, a Casa Nanda is a must-visit for those who love home-style tasca cooking. The atmosphere is warm and familiar, and the food is prepared with care and tradition, offering generous portions and authentic flavors.

Recommended dishes:Bacalhau à Nanda (Nanda-style codfish), octopus rice, and hake fillets with tomato rice.

Taberna Santo António

Location: Rua das Virtudes, 32, Centro Histórico

Description:The Taberna Santo António é uma das mais carismáticas tascas do Porto, situada numa das zonas mais antigas da cidade. O ambiente é acolhedor e familiar, e os pratos são servidos com uma simplicidade deliciosa, focada no sabor e na tradição. O restaurante mantém-se fiel às suas raízes, oferecendo refeições típicas e acessíveis.

Recommended dishes:Cozido à portuguesa, pataniscas de bacalhau e o polvo à lagareiro.

Adega Rio Douro

Location: Rua do Ouro, 223, Massarelos

Description:With a prime location along the Douro River, this tasca is one of Porto’s hidden gems. The menu consists of classic Portuguese dishes in a simple, relaxed, and family-friendly environment. The service is fast and friendly, making it an ideal spot for a traditional lunch or a casual meal at the end of the day.

Recommended dishes:Bacalhau with broa (cornbread-crusted cod), liver slices, and Mirandela sausage.

Casa Louro

Location: Rua Conde de Vizela, 149, Baixa

Description:Located in the heart of Porto, Casa Louro is a classic tasca serving traditional dishes that enchant customers with their authentic flavors. The space is small but offers a genuine tasca experience, with daily specials that change regularly in a relaxed atmosphere.

Recommended dishes:Roasted goat, Porto-style codfish, and duck rice.

A Cozinha do Manel

Location: Rua do Heroísmo, 215, Bonfim

Description:Known for its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, Cozinha do Manel is a reference among traditional tascas in Porto. The food is homemade, with a special focus on oven-baked dishes and typical Portuguese cuisine. Portions are generous, with a home-cooked taste that reminds you of grandma’s kitchen.

Recommended dishes:Roasted pork shank, cabidela rice (chicken and blood rice), and Manel-style codfish.

Zé Bota

Location: Travessa do Carmo, 16, Carmo

Description:The Zé Bota is a tasca that blends simplicity with excellent food. Located in a more discreet area, this tasca is a well-kept secret among locals. The menu offers a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes, always well-served and prepared with fresh ingredients.

Recommended dishes:Grilled rib steak, roasted octopus, and Mirandesa beef.