Bifana, Azores

 August 2019


You don’t have to go far on Sao Miguel island before finding a bifana.  In a roll, toasted, from a street stall or restaurant, this humble pork sandwich varies greatly.  My favourite was from Sunset Poco da Pedra in Mosteiros, a coastal shack nestled just above the crashing Atlantic waves, with the most glorious view of sparkling blue sea and natural swimming pools, and a great place to watch the comings and goings of the promenade.

So simple but so utterly delicious, strips of pork marinated in a blend of spices are grilled and sandwiched in a baguette, then pressed under a grill under it’s hot and crispy and dripping with lip smacking juices.  With the sun on your face, a gentle sea breeze in your hair, and a buzzy vibe, this is a moment of pure pleasure. 

Find it along the promenade at Mosteiros beach, just east from the natural swimming pools.

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