As Bifanas do Afonso

As Bifanas do Afonso is a small, informal sandwich counter on Rua de Santa Justa in Lisbon's Baixa district, a few minutes' walk from the Rossio square and the Santa Justa Lift. It specialises in the bifana, the Portuguese pork sandwich made from thin slices of pork marinated in garlic, white wine and spices, cooked until tender and served in a crusty bread roll. The bifana is a national snack, and this stand is regarded by many visitors and locals as a reliable place to try it in the city centre. The menu is short. The classic bifana is the main order, a bifana with cheese is a popular variation, and beer is the usual accompaniment, along with soft drinks and coffee. A mustard or piri-piri sauce is often added at the counter according to taste. The sandwich arrives quickly, wrapped or on a plate, and is designed to be eaten standing or at one of the few small tables. Space is limited, and the mood is quick, noisy and casual, with a constant flow of workers and visitors, rather than a place to linger. Service is fast and prices are very low compared with sit-down restaurants in the Baixa, which makes it a popular lunch stop for travellers on a budget. No reservations are possible, and the stand is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 8pm, so it is closed on Sundays. Lunchtime, between noon and 2pm, is the busiest period, and queues can form at the counter. Visiting mid-morning or mid-afternoon is easier. The area around the stand is busy, with shops, offices and many tourist cafes, so the bifana stop fits well between visits to the Baixa and Chiado sights and gives an inexpensive taste of everyday Lisbon food.