Portuguese Francesinha Deconstructed [World, Meet Pica-Pau!]

Posted on June 4, 2025

When people think of Porto, the Portuguese Francesinha often tops the list of must-try dishes. This over-the-top, sauce-drenched sandwich has achieved near-legendary status among food lovers. But did you know there’s a lesser-known twist on the classic that deserves just as much attention? World, meet the Deconstructed Francesinha, known locally as Pica-Pau.

What is a Deconstructed Francesinha (Pica-Pau)?

The traditional Portuguese Francesinha is a towering sandwich layered with steak, sausage, ham, and cheese, smothered in a spicy beer-based tomato sauce, and typically topped with a fried egg. It’s rich, heavy, and, especially for first-timers, quite the indulgence.

The deconstructed version, known as Pica-Pau, transforms this hearty classic into a more approachable and shareable format. Instead of stacking everything between slices of bread, the ingredients are sautéed and served in bite-sized chunks with plenty of sauce and fries on the side.

Think of it as a Francesinha “stir-fry”: easier to eat, perfect for sharing, and packed with the same bold flavor as the original.

Why it’s called Pica-Pau

Locals affectionately call this dish Pica-Pau, which means “woodpecker” in Portuguese. The name comes from the way it’s eaten — with toothpicks or forks — as diners “peck” at the dish, much like a woodpecker at a tree.

But this is more than just a nickname. It reflects the relaxed, social spirit of Portuguese petisco culture, where small plates are made for sharing alongside good conversation and drinks.

What Goes into a Deconstructed Portuguese Francesinha?

While variations exist, a typical Deconstructed Portuguese Francesinha includes:

Strips or chunks of beef steak;
Linguiça (spicy Portuguese sausage);
Salsicha fresca (fresh sausage);
Melted cheese;
A generous amount of Francesinha sauce (beer, tomato, and spice blend);
A side of fries or rustic bread for dipping.

The result? Every essential component of the classic Portuguese Francesinha is there… just without the heaviness of the sandwich form.

How to Eat It Like a Local in Porto

Use toothpicks or forks to pick up each piece. This isn’t finger food;
Use the fries or bread to soak up every drop of that incredible sauce;
Pair it with a cold Super Bock for the full local experience;
Take your time. This is a dish meant to be shared and enjoyed slowly.

Where to Find Deconstructed Francesinha in Porto

Although not as widely available as the original sandwich, the deconstructed Portuguese Francesinha can be found in tascas across Porto.

You’ll often find it listed on menus as Pica-Pau. Porto Food tours, like those offered by Taste Porto, frequently highlight the deconstructed Portuguese Francesinha in neighborhoods off the beaten path, places where tradition meets innovation.

Each version may vary slightly. Some feature different meats, others add a twist to the sauce, but the essence remains the same: hearty, spicy, comforting, and unpretentious.