The francesinha is the dish Porto is most famous for — a hearty, indulgent sandwich that has become a symbol of the city. Its name means little Frenchwoman, and it is a twentieth-century creation of Porto.
A francesinha is built in layers: toasted bread filled with hot meats — typically steak, wet-cured ham and fresh and smoked sausage — covered with melted cheese. The whole is then bathed in a near-boiling sauce, the molho de francesinha, made with tomato and beer and often a touch of piri-piri heat. It is usually served with a fried egg on top and a mound of chips.
Every tasca and restaurant in Porto has its own version of the sauce, kept secret and fiercely defended, and locals will argue over the best. It is not a light meal, but trying a francesinha is one of the essential experiences of eating in Porto.
⭐ Must-try:
Francesinha
Highlights
- The sandwich Porto is most famous for
- Layers of toasted bread, steak, ham and sausage
- Covered with melted cheese and a tomato-and-beer sauce
- Usually served with a fried egg and chips
- Every restaurant guards its own secret sauce recipe
Frequently asked questions
What is a francesinha?
It is a hearty Porto sandwich of bread, steak, ham and sausage, covered in melted cheese and a tomato-and-beer sauce.
Why is it called francesinha?
The name means little Frenchwoman; it is a twentieth-century creation of Porto, loosely inspired by the French croque-monsieur.
What is the sauce made of?
The molho de francesinha is based on tomato and beer, often with a touch of piri-piri; each restaurant keeps its own recipe.