It was Prince Henry The Navigator who dramatically affected cooking in Portugal in the 15th century when he ordered his explorers to bring back any exotic fruits, nuts, and plants from the newly discovered lands.
Tomatoes and potatoes were taken to Europe, Brazilian pineapples were introduced to the Azores, Brazilian chili peppers grew in Angola, African coffee was transplanted to Brazil, Brazilian cashews landed in Africa and India and tea was introduced to Europeans. Today, the Portuguese fondness for ingredients such as cinnamon and curry powder is also a legacy from this time, but other cultures had been introducing new foods to Portugal for centuries before that. The Romans brought wheat and introduced onions, garlic, olives, and grapes. Later, the Moors were the first to plant rice, introducing figs, planting groves of lemons and oranges and covering the Algarve province with almond trees.
Naturally Portuguese cuisine varies from region to region, but fresh fish and shellfish are found on virtually every menu. The national dish is “Bacalhau”- dried, salted cod. The Portuguese have been obsessed with it since the early 16th century, when their fishing boats reached Newfoundland. The sailors salted and sun-dried their catch to make it last the long journey home, and today there are said to be 365 different ways of preparing it, one for each day of the year.
The Portuguese word “tasca” describes quaint cafes, bistros or tavernas. These small, well known restaurants are delightful places to eat. Good food is always prepared with love and consummate skill, using the freshest ingredients available.
If the quality of some ingredients are not up to standard, they will not be served. At a tasca we prepare each meal from order, so we ask you to be patient and to relax and enjoy your stay with us the Portuguese way… saude !
T&C’s: Please be aware that older menus may still appear on past social media posts or on Google. However, our in-store menus always take precedence over any other versions found online. Prices and specials are subject to change without prior notice. Please note that our special lunch menu is not available on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Valentine’s and Christmas Day. Other special days are at our discretion with no prior notice. Two specials cannot be used in conjunction with each other. Specials cannot be shared – if you would like to share normal menu price will be charged. We reserve the right to charge for people that do not arrive for bookings. *Right of admission reserved.
