Zé Manel dos Ossos
An alleyway tavern founded in 1959 with only five or six tables, famous for its signature pork bones and a strict no-reservations policy.
Tucked away in Beco do Forno, an alley off Rua da Sota, this tavern was founded in 1959 and named after its signature pork bones. The house specialty is pork backbone simmered in a peppery broth, often paired with a half-portion of wild boar stew with beans. The tiny space has only five or six tables and does not accept reservations. It fills up almost immediately after opening for lunch, so arriving at least 15–30 minutes early to line up is advised. Average spend is about €15–€25 per person, and some reviews note it is cash-only. Closed on Sundays; Saturday dinner service hours vary by source.
Opening hours
Monday to Friday around 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 7:30 PM–10:30 PM; Saturday lunch (dinner hours vary); closed Sunday
Nearby sights
- Arco de Almedina & Quebra-Costas
- Fado ao Centro
- Old Cathedral of Coimbra
- Café Santa Cruz
- Monastery of Santa Cruz
- Biblioteca Joanina
- University of Coimbra – Paço das Escolas
- Mercado Municipal D. Pedro V