Chaves is known for its presunto (smoked cured ham) and the pastéis de Chaves — flaky pastry parcels filled with seasoned veal. Both appear on almost every menu in town, and both travel poorly, so eat them here. The local Trás-os-Montes cuisine is hearty, meat-heavy, and built around cured meats, stews, and bread soups. Prices are reasonable by Portuguese standards — this is not a tourist town.