When thinking of East Coast ethnic eating, many think of Italian restaurants in Atlantic City, like on "The Sopranos." More and more people, however, are discovering the joys of the Portuguese restaurant.
History of the Portuguese
The beginnings of the mostly working-class community date back to the early 20th Century, when many immigrants first relocated there mostly from southern New England. Not long after, a surge of newcomers primarily from fishing villages in northern Portugal significantly bolstered their presence in Newark. This became the cultural center for the region's Portuguese American community and host for the increasingly popular portugese restaurant near me, and celebrates everything Portuguese with aplomb.
The Cuisine at a Glance
Characterized by the use of strong, simple, natural flavors, Portuguese cuisine is similar that of neighboring Iberians in Galicia or Catalonia, as well as the general cuisine of the nearby Mediterranean. An imperial seafaring history introduced an abundance of exotic ingredients from the Americas, Africa, and Asia to the Portuguese palate from the 15th Century forward, many of which the Azores continue to supply to mainland Portugal today. As a result, the national cuisine makes ample and creative use of non-native spices like cinnamon, cloves, and chili peppers of all varieties, as well as imported ingredients like tomatoes, potatoes, turkey, and avocados. Simple and hearty, bold and bounteous, the cooking style typifies the international inspirations of so-called "peasant food" glorified and popularized by many of today's gastronomic engineers and stand-out chefs. A popular menu choice at a Portuguese restaurant is a bowl of hearty, satisfying Caldo verde - a soup of potato, shredded kale, and chunks of chouriço pork sausage-that is typically served at lunch or dinner. Meat, especially pork, is a common entrée feature, as are many kinds of seafood. Bacalhau, or salted cod, is its most famously ubiquitous staple, and some of the best in the region is sold on Portugal Avenue (Ferry Street). Dessert is also a very big deal; molotof is one delectable must-try option made from egg whites and caramel.
Exploring
Hungry, hardworking lunch seekers and adventurous urban foodies both do well to take a train trip to Ferry Street to explore the palate pleasers of the many Iberian eateries and bakeries. The true urban trooper may choose to venture out on JuneTenth (10th), when the Portugal Day Parade and festivities erupt in red, white and green all over. Well-attended and now better organized than ever, the cultural feast is a treat for the eye and the belly with dancers and drummers, art and artisans, costumes and, course, cooking, all addressing individuals and interests of Portugal.
Whether to enjoy Portugal Day or just to experience a best portuguese restaurants near me ,Portuguese restaurant, this area offers visitors and residents alike a lively, welcoming connection to the cuisine and culture of Portugal. Take a quick trip and taste a different, delicious slice of the region's amazing ethnic eats.