One highlight of a recent short break in Lisbon was a Taste of Portugal food and wine walking tour
https://www.airbnb.co.uk/experiences/175317 Lasting almost four hours this tour led by guide Darida explored three of Lisbon's oldest neighbourhoods in the east of the city. We learnt about past and contemporary life stopping often at local and family shops and restaurants to sample a range of delicious food and drink.
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| Cheese & Quice Jelly, ham & port |
These tours cater for small groups and we were ten (from Dallas, San Francisco, Philadelphia, UK & Germany via the Dominican Republic) a great diverse mix sharing a love of good food and wine.
Meeting at the stunning Rue Augusta Arch in Baxia we learnt about the elegant buildings constructed after a massive earthquake in 1755. Then we we wandered off the crowded main streets to the first stop a specialty family run food shop which has been open since 1890.
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| Arch Rue Augusta |
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| Meats and cheeses |
It was here at Manteigaria Silva that we sampled the cheese, quince, ham and port while admiring the stunning range of produce for sale.
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| Salt cod and sardines |
Our walk then took us north east into the medieval streets of Socorro where we sampled salt cod salad and delicate vino verde.
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| Salt cod and bean salad (photo from Taste of Portugal) |
Then a trip into Mozambique to a well established restaurant showcasing the diversity of the people and food. Generous portions of samosas, vegetable curry, coconut rice and yogurt.
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| Darida serving our samosas |
Next stop took us into the Alfama district to Muralha a typical tavern or wine bar. Octopus salad, chorizo and the black sausage morcela with red wine were the offer.
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| Flaming chorizo |
And finally a sweet treat of coffee and cakes at Fabrica Pastel Feijao also located in Alfama. A modern variation on the traditional and very delicious Pasteis de nana (Portuguese custard tarts) this bakehouse and cafe produces cakes with a creamy vanilla filling and crunchy exterior.
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| Pastel de Feijao |
This tour was exceptionally good, the selection of food and drink were varied and the portions generous. We were well guided by Darida who is knowledgable, personable and clearly proud of the Lisbon culture and culinary scene. It was worth every bit of the £56 we each paid. We left full and much better informed about the history, people and food of Lisbon
