While Turkey’s famous tombik döner claimed the top spot, two beloved Portuguese classics also made the list.
One of them is the iconic prego, which ranked 21st with a score of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Today, the sandwich can be found almost everywhere in Portugal, from traditional taverns to cafés and beer houses. Yet few people know the story behind its origins.
The Prego dates back to 1889, when Manuel Dias Prego opened a tavern in Praia das Maçãs, Sintra. He served slices of fried or roasted veal tucked inside fresh bread, often accompanied by local Colares wine. The simple snack quickly became popular with locals and visitors alike, eventually becoming a staple of Portuguese cuisine.
TasteAtlas describes the sandwich as being traditionally served with mustard and hot sauce, and sometimes topped with a fried egg. When served on a plate rather than as a sandwich, it is commonly known as prego no prato.
The prego is not the only Portuguese sandwich to earn international recognition. Just behind it, in 22nd place, is the sandes de pernil (the pork leg sandwich), also awarded 4.2 stars.
Made from pork that is slowly roasted for hours, the meat is then sliced or shredded and served in bread. While many enjoy it in its simplest form, it is often enhanced with mustard or, for a more indulgent version, Portugal’s famous Serra da Estrela cheese.
TasteAtlas notes that the sandwich is closely associated with the city of Porto and with the renowned restaurant Casa Guedes, which many consider one of the best places to experience this hearty Portuguese favourite. Its roots can be traced back to traditional Portuguese taverns, where it became known as an affordable, comforting and satisfying meal.
Together, these two sandwiches showcase Portugal’s rich culinary heritage and prove that some of the world’s best comfort food can be found between two slices of bread.
