CAFÉ OFICINA PORTUGUESA

The Portuguese were the preeminent fishermen and explorers of the fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries. They helped map the globe and brought rare spices like parsley, hot chilli powder, chilli oil, peri-peri, cumin, rosemary, mint, oregano, bay leaf, saffron, fennel, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, pepper, curry powder, nutmeg, paprika and of course garlic to Portugal for their people to enjoy. The use of strong olive oil, garlic and onions contributes to the heart of Portuguese cuisine, quality ingredients prepared simply to preserve their distinctive flavours and textures to work with, so there is very little need for complex preparations. We encourage you to try a few Portuguese traditional treasures like trinchado (pieces of steak in a garlic & wine sauce), chouriso (Portuguese sausage), caldo verde (kale soup), peri-peri baby chicken, Portuguese steak, espetada (steak kebab), Portuguese sardines ( a must try), bacalhau (salted cod fish), grilled prawns, famous seafood platter and for the sweet tooth pasteis de nata (creamy custard tart), Molotov pudim (poached meringue with caramel sauce), baba de camelo (caramel and condensed milk cold soufflé) and many other dishes. These dishes are easy to prepare, as is most Portuguese cooking, and sharing a taste of Portugal is a delicious way of understanding its culture. The Portuguese are people who express love, faith and friendship through their cooking, portions are large and guests are always welcome at the table. Indulging is encouraged.