A couple of years ago, I was camping nearby Lisbon when I asked for a bifana, in a snack-bar. I was salivating for that moist and spicy pieces of pork meat stuck in a bread, but all I got was a simple pork steak, with kind of the same spicy sauce, inside a dry bread: at that moment, I missed the bifanas that I'm used to. I missed the bifana from Conga!
In plain downtown, facing the emblematic Pedro dos Frangos, Conga however took a different direction from its neighbour: while the first keeps the same humble appearance and style that has always been its identity, Conga went in the opposite direction: it looks trendy, new and really welcoming.
And if one could think that going all 'moderny' could affect anything, well, it just didn't: the waiters still treat you with the same sweet harshness and directness ("Hey boss, you want a bifana?"), they shout at each other in their distinct heavy Porto accent and, in a way, carry the flame of the old Conga in their presence. And the bifana, well, the bifana is still spicy hot as hell itself, yet delicious, begging for a beer to put out the fire.
If greasy pork sandwiches are not your cup of tea, there is a vast menu, from hotdogs to salads. So man up, look yourself in the mirror and ask yourself: are you a salad man, or a bifanas man? Or woman, I don't want to sound sexist!
Rua do Bonjardim 314-318
Bifana in bread:
€
3.30
+351
222000113
Find your way with 136 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"CC Bombard" in Porto is a small "shopping mall" that will surprise you with its originality, concept and products. My favourite shop there is Vertigo.
by
"Padaria Ribeiro" isn't just a bakery - it's an icon of the city! I imagine they have been perfecting their pastry recipes since the 19th century...
by
"The Portuguese Centre of Photography" in Porto is located in an ex-prison in the centre. Protip: go all the way down the street at the building's left side.
by
"Porto Belo" (literally: beautiful Porto!) is a traditional flea market located in a beautiful neighborhood. Enjoy the great weather, the sun and the music!
by
"Café Piolho" has been the centre of Porto students' nightlife for over a century. The first cafe to have electricity and TV, it's a living part of history.
by
Foz and Porto's seafront is definitely for me my favourite part of the city! In summer it can get crowded, but that's because it's Porto at its best!
by
"Parque da Cidade" is Porto's Central or Hyde Park, and it's the only one in Europe with a seafront! It's one of my favourite spots to do outdoorsy things.
by
Porto is home to Portugal's most well-known and awarded architect, Siza Vieira. You can find his masterpieces sprinkled all over the city.
by
"Bugo Art Burger" was the first restaurant in Porto to cook special burgers. Even after all that time, it still has THAT twist! Mango chutney burger anyone?
by
The "Edíficio Transparente" in Porto is a strange glass building with 4 floors, pleasant restaurant, cafes - and one of my favorite ocean views in the city.
by
"Botanic Garden" in Porto's Campo Alegre is a wonderful oasis in quite a busy part of the city. It's really worth discovering, if only as a relaxing refuge.
by
Running in Porto is a great idea: there are many races, from 5km to marathons. I've done them all and it's a unique experience. On your marks...!
by
136 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 136 Insider Tips