6 Best Restaurants in Baixa and Ribeira, Porto

With a cavernous interior, lovely blue and yellow azulejo tiles, and formal staff, this upscale tasca has been a local favorite since 1939. It serves vast portions of typical Portuguese dishes such as cabrito assado (roast kid) and bacalhau d'ouro (salted cod with turnips, potato, and cornbread). Most main dishes easily serve two, but leave room for something from the ever-changing but dependably good dessert menu.

Make reservations well in advance, as walk-ins often find themselves out of luck at this industrial-chic spot serving inventive renderings of local classics. Its signature dish is an entire grilled octopus easily big enough for two to share, but there are also delicious small sharing plates like quail egg croquettes and tuna tataki.

Portugal's most celebrated contemporary chef, José Avillez, brings his signature flair to Porto with Cantinho do Avillez, a homey yet modern dining room just downhill from São Bento train station. While he's unlikely to be in the kitchen—his food empire spans more than 30 restaurants globally—he designed the menu, and quality remains excellent. Expect moments of inventive gastronomy such as his signature "exploding olives", alongside polished versions of local comfort food like steak sandwiches with garlic sauce and fleur de sel, or creamy lobster rice.

Without a doubt, one of the most heavenly—and budget-friendly—meals in Porto is the slider filled with roast pork and sheep's cheese from this snack bar. Served in a warm country roll and oozing with pungent Serra da Estrela cheese, it's no wonder there are always lines out the door. Casa Guedes now has three branches in Porto, including a trendy rooftop, but the "traditional" branch remains the most inviting.

Nationally renowned chef Rui Paula, a native of Porto, brings his culinary wizardry to tasting menus of 6, 10, or 14 courses dishes that make creative use of fish and seafood. The dining room is bright and welcoming, providing a relaxed setting for dishes that are always works of art. The wine list is extensive, and a bright cocktail bar.

A passion project for natural wine enthusiasts Tiago Feio and Cátia Roldão (the restaurant name comes from the first and last parts of their names), Tia Tia pairs beautifully presented sharing plates with excellent vinhos. The hands-on pair run the kitchen and restaurant, preparing every seasonal dish with great care. There's no meat on the menu, but there are some wonderfully light fish dishes, including a signature seared carapau (horse mackerel). Expect relaxed breakfasts and brunch from Tuesday to Friday, with more elaborate tasting menus on weekend evenings. Book in advance, and ask for a seat on the terrace when weather allows.