O Xico
If you’re hunting for the soul of Porto, forget the wine lists the size of telephone books. Head to Casa dos Presuntos “Xico” in Bonfim. This isn’t a place for ceremony; it’s a life-affirming pairing of salt-cured ham and an honest house pour. Sorry to be dramatic.
The atmosphere is pure, pre-tourist Porto (at least in the original location). Across from a police station and no English to be heard. The house red here is the perfect foil for their legendary ham sandwiches. It’s chilled, unpretentious, and cuts straight through the richness of the meat. Or it just tastes good because it´s familial and not breaking the bank and you are enjoying the meal.
Served without fanfare in an environment that prioritizes substance over style, at Xico, you aren’t paying for a label or a view; you’re paying for a genuine connection to the neighborhood. If you want to know what the locals are actually drinking while they talk shop, this is pretty much it.
Rating: ★★★★ (4.25/5)