I was hobbling down the steps to the iconic Ponto Final, my legs and hips absolutely torched from…read more100k steps the day prior through the hills and cobblestones that make up the brutal Lisbon terrain. I was STARVING.
We had no reservation, but our group of 6 was seated immediately as we got there right as it opened.
When it comes to ambiance, it doesn't get any better. You are seated right on a concrete slab inches away from the water, with a view of the Abril Bridge towering in the background.
I ordered an aperol spritz and scanned the menu when I saw a "Monkfish Stew" option. Have you ever seen a Monkfish? Absolute nightmare fuel. I didn't even know they were edible.
Sometimes in life, you gotta follow your instincts and shoot from the hip. You gotta let go and let God. On certain days, you gotta throw caution to the wind and order the Monkfish stew for the table. Best decision I've ever made.
This thing came in a piping hot Cauldron that I can only imagine witches use when deviously concocting their potions. It was one of the best things I ate in Portugal.
The dense Monkfish absorbed the rich tomato-based flavor of the seafood stock which made it tender and delectable. The rice followed suit.
We also ordered cod fritters, octopus salad, spicy fried shrimp, chipped grilled salt cod with potatoes, and grilled salmon. The only real miss for me was the octopus salad, with the other highlights being the salmon, shrimp, and cod fritters.
It's always nice when a 1 of 1 ambiance delivers elite food, and that's exactly what is going on in here. Ponto Final reminds me a lot of Anthony Edwards.
I only buy shirts from places that I love with all of my soul, so I couldn't leave here without getting a bright yellow shirt from Ponto Final, which I am currently wearing as I type this. JERSEY SWAP!
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