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.