Portugal is extending an invitation to the world: come and discover what makes our gastronomy unique.

The dishes and ingredients are important, of course, but so too is the overall experience, one that is meant to be genuine and which combines freshness, authenticity, creativity, sustainability and generosity in a single recipe. Portuguese cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s culture, where each meal tells a story and reveals a soul that lives and breathes the flavours of the land and the sea.

Freshness from the sea and from the land
The secret of Portuguese cuisine begins with the freshness of the ingredients. The Atlantic Ocean that bathes the coast guarantees quality fish and seafood and is a source of inspiration. Imagine yourself savouring some freshly-caught fish, prepared in the simplest of ways to enhance its natural flavour and served with seasonal vegetables.

Your fish may be cooked in different ways depending on the region. In the Algarve, to the south, simple and tasty fish dishes can be made in a cataplana, reflecting the authentic flavour of the sea, whereas In Central Portugal, it is the stews that bring out the flavours. Meanwhile, in Porto and the North, the cod brought by fishermen from the seas of Newfoundland became a favourite at Portuguese tables, with many recipes adopting the names of places where they were invented: à Moda de (which means “in the style of”) Viana or Braga or Monção or wherever, but it is cooked in hundreds of different ways all over the country. All along the coast, seafood brings refreshing experiences to the table. 

Freshness is not limited to ingredients from the sea, however. Seasonal fruits, aromatic herbs and vegetables, grown in a traditional way and with respect for the land, all have a key role to play in every dish. The connection between nature and flavours is an invitation to travel through the landscapes and get to know the authentic products of each region. In the case of Alentejo, its vast plains are rich in products that celebrate the flavours of the land, such as olive oil.

Authenticity from within
In Portugal, every dish carries the history of its origins, respecting tradition but still leaving room for innovation. Their authenticity lies in the ingredients and expertise of those who prepare them. Whether it’s an old recipe that’s been handed down or a contemporary reinterpretation makes no difference; the true essence of Portuguese cuisine will be maintained regardless, simple yet flavourful and true to tradition.

Consisting of marinated beef, cooked on laurel stick skewers and served with fried corn, the traditional Madeiran kebab is a dish that reflects the island’s history. Alheiras (a type of cured sausage) from Trás-os-Montes are another example of know-how handed down from generation to generation. A number of chefs have used this centuries-old delicacy as the basis for their creations.

Creativity that transforms and overflows
The new generation of Portuguese chefs is transforming the country’s gastronomy, taking a bolder and more vibrant approach, while still respecting the legacy of generations past. These culinary artists breathe new life into traditional dishes, combining them with modern influences and presenting them in ways that might surprise you. Every meal is a blank canvas, where creativity nurtures flavour, space and shape, resulting in unforgettable gastronomic experiences. And every day we see more and more restaurants signing up for the ride, reflecting the inspiration of the apron-clad creators, who are delighted to roll up their sleeves and get to work.

Sustainability in the kitchen
Ever-mindful of environmental challenges, Portugal is committed to sustainability as one of the pillars of its gastronomy. Respect for the cycles of nature and the mindful use of natural resources are practices that are reflected in the wines and dishes served in restaurants and typical eateries. From local and organic production to making use of every part of every ingredient, sustainability is more than a trend: it is a commitment to future generations and a mark of respect for what the earth has to offer.

A generous welcome
Portuguese hospitality is one of the biggest calling cards of its gastronomy, whether you eat in an award-winning restaurant or in a traditional tavern. The generosity with which the dishes are prepared and served reflects the simplicity of a people who always extend the warmest of welcomes. In Portugal, eating is not just about satisfying hunger; it is a social occasion, where sharing, conviviality and the joy of being together at the table are fundamental ingredients – a fact immortalised by fado singer Amália Rodrigues in the song "Uma Casa Portuguesa" (“A Portuguese Home”). Every meal is a celebration of life, where the pleasure of eating blends with the warm welcome that the Portuguese offer to their guests and visitors.

Portugal at the table: a unique experience
Portuguese cuisine is an experience of authenticity, freshness, creativity, sustainability and generosity. It is a journey through the five senses, in which you discover the culture and traditions of a country that makes gastronomy a true art.

Come and sit down at Portugal’s table and feel at home, surrounded by unforgettable flavours, stories and a generous dose of the art of hospitality. Portuguese gastronomy is more than just a meal; it is an invitation to savour life in all its splendour.