Yes, Andrew Zimmern of Bizzare Foods has graced the doors of this wonderful tasca. About a year ago, my friend Andrea served as his tour guide in Lisbon and took him to this authentic Portuguese gem. He was of course wowed by this mom and pop operation, one where mamma performs magic in the kitchen and papa selects only the freshest fish for the day's menu.
Now, besides a great meal, I had my own reasons for coming here. You see for a long time I have walked in the footsteps of such food giants as Andrew Zimmern, Anthony Boiurdain, and Adam Richman to find that the show's spotlight had changed the treasured discovery. So I wondered if this would once again be the case with one of Andrew's favorite gastronomic scores?
Well, I am here to tell you, foodies, it has not. This place is obviously a local focal point of good Portuguese fare and comradeship. You can tell right away that these people truly love what they do. You really will feel as if you had been invited into someone's house for dinner.
As for our meal, where to start? We started of with a soft goat cheese, chorizo, and fresh olives. This appetizer spread was paired with a sparkling red wine, something that i was told is very common in Portugal's north. We next moved to the main portion of the meal: grilled mackerel, roasted pork, and whitefish. All of these was accompanied by boiled broccoli and potatoes bathed in a buttery yumminess.
The meal was proof that this Tasca has certainly not lost its way; in fact, it sets the standard for all others. Their food is simply proof that nothing beats the magic of good home cooking. So if you are looking for a little bit of Portuguese culinary magic, my fellow foodies, it is here. .. Just ask Andrew. read more