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Today we review and taste test Aldi Asia Green Garden Noodles in two flavors:
Aldi Asia Green Garden Noodles
asia green garden noodle ingredients and cooking instructions
Cooking these asian noodle pouches is simple. Just add 375ml of water to a sauté pan. Once boiling, add the contents of the pouch and stir. After around 5 minutes of cooking most of the water should be absorbed by the pasta. Add 15ml of oil. Mix and cook for 1 more minute.
Aldi Asia Green Garden Noodles - Cooking Instructions and Ingredients
Inside the pouchInside the pouch was about what I expected to see - dehydrated noodles and flavor powder. Conveniently, the powder was not in a seperate package. 
Inside Aldi Asia Green Garden Noodles
Restaurant Review blog.
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While some people eat out of necessity, we eat out of enjoyment and genuine appreciation for the amazing gift that food is.
Have you ever thought about food like that?
Not only does it nourish and strengthen us so we can live our best lives, but it also has the ability to entertain (ever watch a baby eat something sour? equally amusing to see the same reaction from an adult :p ) and enrich us intellectually by shedding light onto different cultures and the way historical events have influenced the flavors and styles of cooking around the world.
Yes. Food can actually make history interesting for people who are not, by default, history buffs! Now that's power. :) |
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When visiting a city like Lisbon, Portugal you generally have wider access to restaurants serving unique foods from distant lands and this is, in fact, a huge draw for many weekend-in-the-city getaways!
You can imagine how excited we were when we discovered a nearby Armenian restaurant during our most recent weekend in Lisbon.
You can imagine how excited we were when we discovered a nearby Armenian restaurant during our most recent weekend in Lisbon.
Ararate armenian Restaurant in Lisbon
Ararate Armenian restaurant is located just a half mile (about a 10 minute walk) from where we stayed in Saldanha. We arrived on a Sunday around 7pm without a reservation and on this occasion there was no trouble accommodating us.
Ararate Armenian Restaurant in Lisbon | Traveling Through Food Restaurant Review Blog
The decor inside this Armenian restaurant was very cool and full of cultural elements from paintings to tapestries, and the ornate mirror everything combined to create a unique dining experience in Lisbon, as you will soon see.
Ararate Lisboa Menu
The menu at this Armenian restaurant in Portugal will take you on an absolute journey. It's somewhat of a work of art, in my opinion, and if you have time to read through it you will learn a lot, including that the restaurant is indeed named after Ararat - the mountains where the ark rested after the Flood of Noah's day. (Genesis 8:4)
Ararate Menu | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
The Ararate Menu is available in English and includes many descriptions of the traditional dishes along with beautiful photography. See the Ararate Lisbon Menu here and you'll understand what I mean!
Ararate Drinks Menu with Prices
Ararate Drinks Menu | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
While bottles of wine could be found on the left side, we focused on the right side of the page.
Remember in the 9 tips for eating at restaurants in Portugal post how we discussed ordering water in restaurants? Here is a good example for you. Still, bottled water, is available in a half liter or full liter for 2.50 and 3.50 euros, respectively. If you prefer Água com gás natural, that is naturally sparkling mineral water, you can have it for 4 euros.
Remember in the 9 tips for eating at restaurants in Portugal post how we discussed ordering water in restaurants? Here is a good example for you. Still, bottled water, is available in a half liter or full liter for 2.50 and 3.50 euros, respectively. If you prefer Água com gás natural, that is naturally sparkling mineral water, you can have it for 4 euros.
Drink Prices at Ararate Restaurant | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
You'll also note that they carry bottles of Sagres beer and when you see Cerveja pressão that means a draft beer. Wine by the glass costs 5-6 euros at this Lisbon restaurant.
Armenian Beer Kilikia | Traveling Through Food Blog
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We decided to enjoy the Kilikia Lager Beer from Yerevan Brewery in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia with our meal at Ararate.
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Americans Try armenian food for the first time
We were really excited to try Armenian food for the first time! The menu really had us excited as everything looked and sounded so delicious!
Khachapuri Barco - Traditional Pastry with Cheese and egg 10,5€
How could we pass up a pastry boat filled with cheese? Ironically the first thing we ordered is actually from Georgia. Ararat restaurant, in fact, serves dishes from Armenia as well as the Caucasian countries bordering Armenia like Georgia!
So what is Khachapuri Barco?
Khachapuri Barco is a traditional Caucasian pastry from the Adjara region of Georgia stuffed with cheese, egg yoke, and butter.
So what is Khachapuri Barco?
Khachapuri Barco is a traditional Caucasian pastry from the Adjara region of Georgia stuffed with cheese, egg yoke, and butter.
Khachapuri Barco at Ararat | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
How to eat Khachapuri Barco
The waiter prepared the dish for us to eat, but when you receive it the pastry will not be cut and you will see a bright egg yoke on top.
To eat Khachapuri Barco, you break the egg yolk and mix it together with the hot, melted cheese and butter until combined into a rich sauce. Then you can cut the pastry and eat it!
The waiter prepared the dish for us to eat, but when you receive it the pastry will not be cut and you will see a bright egg yoke on top.
To eat Khachapuri Barco, you break the egg yolk and mix it together with the hot, melted cheese and butter until combined into a rich sauce. Then you can cut the pastry and eat it!
Our thoughts on Khachapuri Barco
The first bites were really tasty - I mean it's cheese filled bread after all! As the rest of the food arrived and the cheese started to firm up it was a bit too much for the two of us, although we did finish it of course. ;) We think this would be even better if shared among more people so everyone can eat a piece at its optimal temperature and texture!
I would not hesitate to try Khachapuri Barco again at an Armenian restaurant, especially with more friends!
The first bites were really tasty - I mean it's cheese filled bread after all! As the rest of the food arrived and the cheese started to firm up it was a bit too much for the two of us, although we did finish it of course. ;) We think this would be even better if shared among more people so everyone can eat a piece at its optimal temperature and texture!
I would not hesitate to try Khachapuri Barco again at an Armenian restaurant, especially with more friends!
Khinkali - stuffed dough bags 2,75€
The Ararat menu describes these as "Artistically hand molded dough bags, filled with succulent minced meat and a rich aromatic broth" You must order at least 3. We ordered 4 so we could each have 2 Khinkali.
I was most excited to try Khinkali because in the past when there was a Special Convention in Georgia, I thought I remembered the info page talking about "soup dumplings" and ever since I've been intrigued by the concept.
But how do you eat Khinkali?
First, pick one up by its little dough handle. =)
First, pick one up by its little dough handle. =)
To Eat Khinkali Use The Dough "Handle" | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
Remember that inside this little parcel is hot soup broth as well as a "meatball" (not really in a ball shape, but just for a familiar reference). So you want to take a little bite to create an opening in the pastry that allows you to drink up some of that delicious broth!
Enjoy the delicious broth inside Khinkali | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
While eating Khinkali, holding the soup dumpling in a way that the broth won't spill out all over the place. You can take bites of the meat along with slurps of the broth together! Once all the broth is gone, eat what's left but do not eat the doughy handle. It has served its purpose.
Flavorful meat inside Ararate Restaurant's Khinkali | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
As it turns out, Khinkali is a Georgian dumpling that is super loved in Armenia and it's not hard to tell why. These were my favorite of everything we ate at Ararate.
To me, Khinkali is a perfect food. It's cute, made with love, filled with broth (big soup fan over here), and really flavorful meat. Eating it is a cultural experience, learning the technique is enriching and entertaining because you're probably going to make a mess at first.
Khinkali is just an all around good time. 10/10. Tell your friends.
To me, Khinkali is a perfect food. It's cute, made with love, filled with broth (big soup fan over here), and really flavorful meat. Eating it is a cultural experience, learning the technique is enriching and entertaining because you're probably going to make a mess at first.
Khinkali is just an all around good time. 10/10. Tell your friends.
Lamb Lulyá-Khabab Charcoal Grilled Meat Skewers with potato 17€
Meat is central to Armenian cuisine and we opted for the lam lulyá-khabab. The ground lamb meat is really nicely seasoned and it's traditional to roast these meat skewers over an open fire.
Meat and Potatoes Armenian Style at Ararate | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
The skewer came with potatoes, a little sauce, and some red onion with herb slivers.
Armenian Grilled Meats | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
Trilogia Dessert trio - 7€
This dessert sampler platter was a feast for the eyes, don't you agree? What presentation!
Dessert Trio at Ararate Armenian Restaurant | Traveling Through Food Lisbon Restaurant Review
Dessert descriptions from Ararate Menu:
- Honey Cake - Layered dough cake based on honey and sour cream
- Ecler (Eclair) - Sugary dough balls, known as choux, filled with custard as our chef likes it and a lot of powdered sugar
- Pakhlava (Baklava) - Pastry made with a paste of walnuts crushed with cloves and cinnamon, wrapped in filo pastry and bathed in syrup
Baklava, Eclair, and Layered Honey Cake | Traveling Through Food Ararate Lisbon Restaurant Review
Of all the desserts I would say the honey cake was my favorite. Imagine the work to make such thin layers of cake and perfectly stack them with cream in between!
Cafe Ararate - 5€
It only seemed right to finish the meal with Armenian coffee. Armenian coffee is made on the stove pot in a special coffee pot called a jazve. Armenian and Turkish coffee are brewed in a similar way. Cezve is the name of the Turkish coffee pot.
This method of brewing coffee normally yields a thicker and more flavorful coffee. We are fans of intense coffee, but actually found this to be a bit thin. Not sure if it needed more time to develop or if our palates are simply not yet attuned. Still, we are happy we tried it and loved the finishing touch of fresh strawberries!
A cool Lisbon Restaurant
If you're looking for a unique restaurant in Portugal, Lisbon in particular, why not give Ararate Armenian restaurant a try?!
What i'd like to try next time
If I make it back to Ararate restaurant, besides delighting in more Kinkhali, I would love to try their Dolma (veal stuffed grape leaves), Putukh (Lamb stew with chickpeas, potatoes, onions and tomatoes served in a clay pot and covered with a bread crust), Khurdjin (oven roasted lamb in a bundle of lavash with vegetables stewed in beer; lavash is Armenian flatbread) as well as the Tabulé, which by the way was one of my favorite things on the Sun Princess buffet during the Mediterranean Cruise!
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If you're staying in Lisboa (oh, hi! did you know the Portuguese version of Lisbon is Lisboa?) and wondering if it's possible to make a day trip to the Algarve from Lisbon, let me tell you it is absolutely possible!
Chances are high you will wish you had more time in the southern coast of Portugal and a one-day visit is going to make for a long day, but it IS definitely possible and oh so worth it.
Chances are high you will wish you had more time in the southern coast of Portugal and a one-day visit is going to make for a long day, but it IS definitely possible and oh so worth it.
A seagull soars over the cliffs of Carvoeiro | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
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Benagil Cave Boat Tour
A top activity when you come to the southern coast of Portugal is to a Benagil Cave tour by boat. I really do recommend this as you get spectacular views of the unique cliffs all along the Algarvian coastline. The guides are great and intertwine facts with humor and explain all the little beach towns and secret beaches you see along the way. On occasion you may even see wild dolphins, though this is not guaranteed.
Benagil Cave by speedboat
A Benagil Cave Speedboat Tour | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
The most popular way to see the caves is by speedboat. There are tons of companies offering these tours from all over Algarve. This is the boat tour we did recently and we had a good experience! It's likely that your boat will be pretty full in-season and you really are packed like sardinhas (sardines). On our boat each row sat 3 people. If you're in the middle seat you will find it a bit more difficult to see at times. You really want to be on the ends if you're the photographer/videographer of the group.
Tips: Try to get in the front of the boat and a seat on either end for the best views.
The boats can only pull so far into the caves so the people toward the front will have the best view. As the boats are usually traveling roundtrip from the same town if you start out on the side of the boat facing the ocean, on the way back you will face the shore. Typically the return trip is faster, though. You've already seen what they want to show you and now you are turning back. So if you really want the best photo ops go for the left side of the boat (when inside the boat) if you are departing from Portimao Marina Boat Tours.
Tips: Try to get in the front of the boat and a seat on either end for the best views.
The boats can only pull so far into the caves so the people toward the front will have the best view. As the boats are usually traveling roundtrip from the same town if you start out on the side of the boat facing the ocean, on the way back you will face the shore. Typically the return trip is faster, though. You've already seen what they want to show you and now you are turning back. So if you really want the best photo ops go for the left side of the boat (when inside the boat) if you are departing from Portimao Marina Boat Tours.
Benagil Cave by Pirate Ship
See the Algarvian Coast from a Pirate Ship | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
Another option is to take the pirate ship cave cruise. As you can see right away this is a much larger vessel. You may find this more comfortable if your body structure is not compatible with the sardine situation, if you have bad knees and it would be hard to sit in a low seat, or if you're nervous about feeling the waves too much in a speedboat.
The pirate ship is equipped with a bar selling beverages and snacks, but many bring their own snacks on board. The ship has two smaller boats at the back that you can board to actually get a closer look at the caves as the main pirate ship is too large.
The pirate ship is equipped with a bar selling beverages and snacks, but many bring their own snacks on board. The ship has two smaller boats at the back that you can board to actually get a closer look at the caves as the main pirate ship is too large.
Benagil cave by Kayak Tour
The most immersive Benagil Cave experience is by Kayak | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
If you are more adventurous and truly want to get inside the caves, in the water and on the beaches, you must do a Benagil caves kayak tour.
Ocean Kayakers touring Benagil Caves in Portugal | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
Pre-cruise snack at mel & Canela
If you've taken an early morning bus from Lisbon to Algarve you are probably going to be pretty hungry. I recommend grabbing a little something to eat.
As our boat trip was leaving from Portimao Marina, we stopped at this spacious cafe called Mel & Canela, meaning Honey & Cinnamon in Portuguese. We just got some classics like a bifana com ovo (pork sandwich with an egg) and a pork bitoque which came with a side of French fries, a simple salad, and an egg on top.
As our boat trip was leaving from Portimao Marina, we stopped at this spacious cafe called Mel & Canela, meaning Honey & Cinnamon in Portuguese. We just got some classics like a bifana com ovo (pork sandwich with an egg) and a pork bitoque which came with a side of French fries, a simple salad, and an egg on top.
Post-cruise snack at Sorbetto Gelateria
It only feels like vacation when you have an ice cream, right? A Gelato was a perfect treat after the benagil cave speedboat tour and we opted for a place called Sorbetto Gelateria at Praia Da Rocha in Portimao.
The gelato was unbelievably delicious and we got two very European flavors - Améndoa e Figo (Almond and Fig) and Pistachio. Prices here ranged from 2.50-6 euros for small, medium, large, or extra large cones. And do note that even if you get a small (pequeno) you can have two flavors ;)
The girls working in this Gelateria were especially simpatico (friendly) and actually made this sweet treat an even sweeter experience!
We definitely recommend this gelato in Portugal - Sorbetto Gelateria. They use fresh, natural ingredients and make everything in small batches and that is totally our style.
The girls working in this Gelateria were especially simpatico (friendly) and actually made this sweet treat an even sweeter experience!
We definitely recommend this gelato in Portugal - Sorbetto Gelateria. They use fresh, natural ingredients and make everything in small batches and that is totally our style.
Algarve Beaches
Of course while you are on your day trip to the Algarve you should see the beaches. Maybe you already did a boat tour or maybe you aren't into water activities. Either way you should see the beaches, whether you sunbathe and eat Bolas de Berlim (a portuguese pastry that's sort of like a sugared donut cut in half and filled with cream that is traditionally egg and sugar based, although plain and other flavors like Nutella can be had) or you enjoy a sangria at a beach cafe or you walk some cliff trails - you really cannot go wrong!
Praia dos Três Castelos
This is from the miradouro dos Três Castlos (Viewpoint of the 3 Castles) an observation deck in Portimao, Portugal. You can walk down to the beach from here if you'd like!
By the way praia is the Portuguese word for beach. =)
By the way praia is the Portuguese word for beach. =)
Praia dos Trés Castelos as seen from the Miradouro | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
Praia Grande Ferragudo
Praia Grande in Ferragudo is just across the river from Portimão. It's another beautiful and spacious Portuguese beach on which you can find a medieval castle, the Forte de São João do Arade, which I think is so cool. The initial watchtower is thought to have been built around 1520, while the actual castle was constructed around 1640, after the Portuguese Restoration War. Forte de São João is privately owned, so do be respectful when you are near the property. =)
Medieval Castle on Praia Grande, a beach in Ferragudo Portugal | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
The fishing village of Ferragudo is also not to be missed. It's a great village to walk around in as it is filled with cute and funky shops, great restaurants, and quaint cafes.
Charming street in the Fishing Village Ferragudo Portugal | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
If you're into unique, artsy souvenirs check out deja vu art shop in Ferragudo.
Praia de Carvoeiro
Heading a short distance to the east of Ferragudo you will find Praia de Carvoeiro.
Famous Praia de Carvoeiro | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
It is a small sandy beach with a hilly, but walkable and lively town. While you are here you should try and walk along the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, Algar Seco, for stunning views and you can climb down into some of the cliffs which is very cool.
Algar Seco Cliffs and Beautiful Views in Algarve Portugal | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
You can go decently far where there are stairs built in to the rock, and wooden posts with rope hand rails. For the adventurous and well coordinated you can safely continue to explore further if you wish.
Before you catch a bus home, if you're around long enough, I can't recommend highly enough getting a pizza at Forno do Fraser. This is the best pizza place in Carvoeiro we've had to date and it's a short walk up the hill from the beach.
Before you catch a bus home, if you're around long enough, I can't recommend highly enough getting a pizza at Forno do Fraser. This is the best pizza place in Carvoeiro we've had to date and it's a short walk up the hill from the beach.
Fig Pizza on Carvoeiro Beach from Forno do Fraser | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
Current hours at time of this article are Monday - Saturday 17:30-22:00 (5:30pm - 10pm)
If you want to dine in, I recommend you make a reservation. Depending on the day the dining room may be packed and unable to accommodate walk-ins. Although we have picked pizza up to eat at the beach as seen above.
Forno do Fraser deserves a full review for our Pizza in Portugal series, so stay tuned for that.
If you want to dine in, I recommend you make a reservation. Depending on the day the dining room may be packed and unable to accommodate walk-ins. Although we have picked pizza up to eat at the beach as seen above.
Forno do Fraser deserves a full review for our Pizza in Portugal series, so stay tuned for that.
one day in the algarve is simply not enough
There are so many ways to spend one day in Algarve. Boat trips, beach days, shopping for local handicrafts, day trips to monchique or Silves castle, trying the many Portuguese Pastries, hiking, summer concerts, waterparks, spas, golfing... there is so much to do here I'm sure you will be convinced after one day that you simply must come back again soon! ;)
How to get to algarve from lisbon
Of course you can rent a car and drive (check car rental prices), but if you're not interested in messing with that I can recommend the train or the bus.
BuyPortugal train tickets at the Comboios de Portugal (Trains of Portugal) website: cp.pt
Buy Portugal bus tickets through the Rede Expressos website rede-expressos.pt/pt
Buy Portugal bus tickets through FlixBus website flixbus.com/bus/portugal
While it depends where exactly you get on and off, the bus takes around 3 hours between Lisbon and Algarve.
Which stop should you get off at?
Albufeira is popular with tourists, but you can also take the bus to Armação de Pêra, Portimão, or Lagoa if you'd like to visit Carvoeiro beach town.
How much is the bus from Lisbon to Algarve?
The bus is incredibly affordable with seats starting at $5 euros. An incredible value!
Do note that the cheapest seats will be at the back of the bus and the ticket price increases as the travel date nears. My best tip for you is that as soon as you know when you want to make your trip from Lisbon to Algarve, if the dates are available for purchase, buy your tickets! This way you get the best price and you're guaranteed to see some of the amazing this shared in this post! ;)
FYI: In some cases the tickets will only be available approximately 1 month before a travel date.
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- PORTUGAL TRAVEL TIPS: 9 THINGS TO KNOW WHEN EATING AT A RESTAURANT IN PORTUGAL
- FORNO D'ORO PIZZERIA DI TANKA SAPKOTA LISBON PIZZERIA REVIEW
- PIZZA IN NAPLES - DAY 2 SUN PRINCESS MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE WITH GREEK ISLES, ITALY & TURKEY
- THE ALDI "CHOCOLATE LOG" PASTRY WE PRETEND IS HEALTHY - GROCERY REVIEW
- EATING AT IKEA IN PORTUGAL
Portuguese Steak with Fried Egg, Rice, and French Fries | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
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In addition to historical castles, charming villages, and spectacular cliff beaches, eating out in Portugal is going to be a highlight of your trip to Portugal, for sure.
If it's your first time visiting Portugal, you may be wondering things:
I'm going to help you navigate your first restaurant experience with a few insights that should prove helpful! |
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1. The bread is not free.
If you're an American, you are used to a lot of freebies.
When you go to a restaurant, if there is bread and butter on the table it is complimentary. In fact, you can often get free refills on the free bread and butter at a restaurant.
If that is your background and you arrive at a restaurant in Portugal to see a lovely display of bread, butter, olives, and the like at your table, you will naturally assume it is complimentary.
It isn't.
This is called the Couvert and it may be on your table when you arrive or presented to you shortly after seating. The idea is to provide you with some little bites right away while you peruse the menu and then wait for your food.
The price for each item will be shown in the menu and you may be surprised at how it is itemized. Literally each pad of butter has a set price. To an American this can be a bit jarring the first time, but it really does promote a more intentional way of eating and less waste.
When you go to a restaurant, if there is bread and butter on the table it is complimentary. In fact, you can often get free refills on the free bread and butter at a restaurant.
If that is your background and you arrive at a restaurant in Portugal to see a lovely display of bread, butter, olives, and the like at your table, you will naturally assume it is complimentary.
It isn't.
This is called the Couvert and it may be on your table when you arrive or presented to you shortly after seating. The idea is to provide you with some little bites right away while you peruse the menu and then wait for your food.
The price for each item will be shown in the menu and you may be surprised at how it is itemized. Literally each pad of butter has a set price. To an American this can be a bit jarring the first time, but it really does promote a more intentional way of eating and less waste.
What if i don't want the Couvert?
If the couvert set is already on your table when you arrive just let the waitstaff know right away you don't want it and they will take it away and not charge you for it. (But please double check your bill at the end because it can be accidentally added)
If you've already taken some bites, I'm sorry to tell you that you will be charged for the entirety even if you thought it was free. Tourist Tax. :)
The good news is it's usually only a few dollars and in a region known for bread and olives you're more than likely going to love it! Some areas will also include things like sardine pate or algarvian cenouras (carrots).
If you want the olives but not the sardine paste, just let them know and they will remove it and charge you just for the items you want.
If you've already taken some bites, I'm sorry to tell you that you will be charged for the entirety even if you thought it was free. Tourist Tax. :)
The good news is it's usually only a few dollars and in a region known for bread and olives you're more than likely going to love it! Some areas will also include things like sardine pate or algarvian cenouras (carrots).
If you want the olives but not the sardine paste, just let them know and they will remove it and charge you just for the items you want.
2. How to get a glass of water at a restaurant in portugal
If you're not a pop (soda) person, you may be accustomed to just requesting a glass of water in a restaurant. The wait staff will bring you an ice water and regularly refill it. In some cases they will set a pitcher right on your table!
This practice is not common in Portugal. In some cases you may be able to request and receive "Tap water"[in Portuguese: "Um copo de água da torneira, por favor" meaning "a cup of water from the faucet, please".
However, generally speaking water is served here in bottles. You can order a large bottle for sharing or smaller bottles and you will always be asked "com gás?" In Portugal, sparkling mineral water is very Popular so if you want one you ask for "agua com gás" and if you want regular still water you say "agua sem gás"
Portuguese Lesson :
Agua means "water"
Com means "with"
Sem means "without"
This practice is not common in Portugal. In some cases you may be able to request and receive "Tap water"[in Portuguese: "Um copo de água da torneira, por favor" meaning "a cup of water from the faucet, please".
However, generally speaking water is served here in bottles. You can order a large bottle for sharing or smaller bottles and you will always be asked "com gás?" In Portugal, sparkling mineral water is very Popular so if you want one you ask for "agua com gás" and if you want regular still water you say "agua sem gás"
Portuguese Lesson :
Agua means "water"
Com means "with"
Sem means "without"
3. How to order a beer in portugal?
Sagres Beer in Portugal | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
There are craft breweries in Portugal, but the most popular national beers of Portugal are Sagres and Super Bock. Both are refreshing after a day at the beach under the blazing sun or to wash down a hearty francesinha in the cooler months.
There are a few ways to order beer in Portugal.
You can simply ask for a "Sagres" or a "Super Bock". Think of it like asking for "Coke" or "Pepsi". You may have a personal preference for Coca-cola, but some establishments only carry Pepsi. If you order a Sagres and the restaurant doesn't carry it they may just reply "Super Bock?" and you can say "Sim" for "yes" or nod and say, "Está bom", as if to say "it's good!"
There are a few ways to order beer in Portugal.
You can simply ask for a "Sagres" or a "Super Bock". Think of it like asking for "Coke" or "Pepsi". You may have a personal preference for Coca-cola, but some establishments only carry Pepsi. If you order a Sagres and the restaurant doesn't carry it they may just reply "Super Bock?" and you can say "Sim" for "yes" or nod and say, "Está bom", as if to say "it's good!"
Beer goes great with a Bifana | Traveling Through Food Blog Portugal Travel Blog
By the way, a bifana is a simple sandwich of thin slices of pork on a super soft roll. In case you were wondering "what is a bifana?!"
Beer Sizes in Portugal
By the way, you may want to know how to say beer in Portuguese. The Portuguese word for beer is "cerveja", pronounced, sir-vay-juh. (vay as in va-cation)
If you're ordering a draft you can get a Caneca (mug) or my favorite, an imperial, which is a 20 cl beer. For me it's the perfect size to cool down and you can drink it before it gets warm in one of the 300+ days of sun in Portugal. Apparently in Porto this is also known as fino.
If you're ordering a draft you can get a Caneca (mug) or my favorite, an imperial, which is a 20 cl beer. For me it's the perfect size to cool down and you can drink it before it gets warm in one of the 300+ days of sun in Portugal. Apparently in Porto this is also known as fino.
How much is a small beer in portugal?
Often you can order one of these small beers, imperial, in Portugal for a little over a euro. =)
Needless to say if you are at a fancy restaurant or you're at a cafe on the beach prices will be higher, but still feel like a great value for most Americans.
Needless to say if you are at a fancy restaurant or you're at a cafe on the beach prices will be higher, but still feel like a great value for most Americans.
4. How to avoid blood in Portuguese food
A number of Portuguese dishes can contain blood. This may not be something you think about before your trip to Portugal, but for those who choose not to eat blood (Genesis 9:4; Acts 15:29) here are some dishes to look out for:
If you are unsure, it's a good idea to ask if a dish has blood in it before ordering. The Portuguese word for blood is "sangue".
You could ask something like "isso tem sangue?" meaning "does this have blood?"
You can clarify your concern by adding "I do not eat blood" - "eu não como sangue"
Of course in the end you can say thank you with the word "Obrigado" for guys and "Obrigada" for girls.
Side note: We have noticed some other food products containing blood in the grocery. So do take a moment to scan the ingredients of any sausage or chouriço whether whole or sliced and especially if the color is dark, as well as pasta sauce! Yes you read that correctly. We have actually seen sangue, blood, as an ingredient in pre-made tomato sauce. It's not common, but it happens. So if it's important to you, just keep your eyes peeled. =)
- Portuguese Feijoada is a pork and bean stew that sometimes includes blood sausage
- Morcela is Portuguese Blood Sausage
- Cabidela or arroz de cabidela is typical of Minho in the north of Portugal and is a rice dish made with blood.
If you are unsure, it's a good idea to ask if a dish has blood in it before ordering. The Portuguese word for blood is "sangue".
You could ask something like "isso tem sangue?" meaning "does this have blood?"
You can clarify your concern by adding "I do not eat blood" - "eu não como sangue"
Of course in the end you can say thank you with the word "Obrigado" for guys and "Obrigada" for girls.
Side note: We have noticed some other food products containing blood in the grocery. So do take a moment to scan the ingredients of any sausage or chouriço whether whole or sliced and especially if the color is dark, as well as pasta sauce! Yes you read that correctly. We have actually seen sangue, blood, as an ingredient in pre-made tomato sauce. It's not common, but it happens. So if it's important to you, just keep your eyes peeled. =)
Bacalhau com Grão | Traveling Through Food Blog Portugal Travel Blog
A blood-free and very Portuguese dish, bacalhau com grão is a dish featuring salted cod and chick peas!
PSA: watch for bones!
PSA: watch for bones!
5. Prato do dia Lunch deals in portugal
A great way to save money during your trip to Portugal and eat a hearty meal is the take advantage of the Prato do Dia (plate of the day) that many restaurants offer.
Typically these set menus are offered on week days during lunch so the Portuguese can have an economical, well rounded, and "efficient" meal during their work day.
Typically these set menus are offered on week days during lunch so the Portuguese can have an economical, well rounded, and "efficient" meal during their work day.
What is included in prato do dia?
Prato do Dia in Portugal May Include Dessert and Coffee | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
At this point it varies wildly based on region and the individual restaurant, but o menu (the menu, as in the set menu for the day) could include all of the following: bread, butter, olives, soup, main dish like grilled piri-piri chicken or sardines (sardinhas), a drink (uma bebida) which can be a jarred drink like water, juice or pop, or it can be beer or a glass (sometimes pitcher) of wine, dessert (sobremesa), coffee (um café) and sometimes even a shot of liquor at the end for anywhere between 10-15 euros per person.
Again it varies a lot. You may find a place offering all of this for under 10 euros in a smaller town or you may find Prato do dia under 10 euros that is more simple like one main dish, one drink, and a coffee a the end, but no matter how you slice it these are almost always an excellent value and way to try Portuguese fare along side locals for an authentic experience.
Again it varies a lot. You may find a place offering all of this for under 10 euros in a smaller town or you may find Prato do dia under 10 euros that is more simple like one main dish, one drink, and a coffee a the end, but no matter how you slice it these are almost always an excellent value and way to try Portuguese fare along side locals for an authentic experience.
6. you don't have to rush in portugal
In America the dining experience tends to be rushed. There are lines and servers need to turn tables fast because their livelihood depends on the tips they get. More tables = more tips = hurry up, eat fast, leave asap.
This is soooo different in Portugal. The pace of life in many ways is a lot slower than the US and dining out is included. Aside from a few popular restaurants that imply (but idk if they truly enforce) a table limit like this great pizza place in Lisbon, you are welcome to take your time at a restaurant.
This is time to relax and enjoy both the food and the company who you have chosen to be around the table with. In many cases you will need to ask for the bill to signal you are ready to leave.
Relevant side note: Do keep in mind that many restaurants in Portugal will close at 3 and re-open for dinner anytime between 5 and 7 pm. So be sure to get in to a restaurant before 3 or you will have to wait a few hours and hangry scaries can set in fast...
This is soooo different in Portugal. The pace of life in many ways is a lot slower than the US and dining out is included. Aside from a few popular restaurants that imply (but idk if they truly enforce) a table limit like this great pizza place in Lisbon, you are welcome to take your time at a restaurant.
This is time to relax and enjoy both the food and the company who you have chosen to be around the table with. In many cases you will need to ask for the bill to signal you are ready to leave.
Relevant side note: Do keep in mind that many restaurants in Portugal will close at 3 and re-open for dinner anytime between 5 and 7 pm. So be sure to get in to a restaurant before 3 or you will have to wait a few hours and hangry scaries can set in fast...
7. How to ask for the bill in portuguese
There are many ways to ask for the bill after eating a meal at a restaurant in Portugal. One common expression is "A conta, por favor" or "The bill, please".
You can also say "Queria pagar" for "I would like to pay"
To sound even more Portuguese, and informal, you can simply say "a continha" (con-teen-yah).
If the restaurant is loud and busy you can also gesture in the air as if you're writing with a pen and they will know you want the check.
On some occasions a bill will be left on your table sooner, but you do not need to take it as a hint to leave. It's more for convenience and you can then take it to the till to pay when you're ready.
Cafe with a view Ohlos d'Agua Algarve Portugal | Traveling Through Food Portugal Travel Blog
8. Tipping culture in Portugal
America is a tipping culture especially in the restaurant industry where workers are barely paid two nickels an hour which is absolutely insane. In Portugal workers in restaurants are paid an actual wage, so tipping here is not necessary.
In some cases it could be offensive, I'm told. In most cases a small rounding up to the nearest bill would be welcomed and appreciated. Overall, however, tipping at a restaurant is not expected. If you have the means and someone did something great, go for it! But at the same time, not leaving a tip in Portugal is not seen as rude, cheap, unappreciative, or ripping off the staff. I know it's hard to wrap your head around, but remember this is a different culture.
In some cases it could be offensive, I'm told. In most cases a small rounding up to the nearest bill would be welcomed and appreciated. Overall, however, tipping at a restaurant is not expected. If you have the means and someone did something great, go for it! But at the same time, not leaving a tip in Portugal is not seen as rude, cheap, unappreciative, or ripping off the staff. I know it's hard to wrap your head around, but remember this is a different culture.
9. Can you use credit cards in portugal?
Pastelaria Versailles in Lisbon accepts Credit Cards | Traveling Through Food Blog Portugal Travel Blog
One final and important tip about eating out in Portugal. You may be wondering if you can use your credit card in Portugal.
It depends.
Portugal overall is a cash culture. but if you are spending time in touristy areas like Lisbon, Porto, or Algarve, for example, it is most likely that many places will accept credit cards. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express.
You'll want to look at the door of the restaurant. If it says "Multibanco" with an X through it, that means they do not accept card. If they accept cards you will usually see on the door which cards they accept (Visa, etc) See the photo above for an example. The arrow points to the "Visa" logo on the door of Pastelaria Versailles in Lisbon. (PS they have one of the best Pastel de Nata in Lisbon, and all of Portugal in our opinion so far!)
How to ask if you can pay with a credit card in portuguese
You can say "Posso pagar com cartão?" for "May I pay with card"
Usually they will bring the card reader right to your seat and you can use tap to pay in Portugal right from your phone.
Be sure to use a card that has no foreign transaction fees.
When the machine asks you if you want the bill to be charged in USD or Euro, always pick Euro!! When you choose Euro (the local currency) your credit card company will do the conversion at a better rate. When you choose USD then the establishment can mark up the conversion and your end bill can be more than expected. This applies in any country, by the way.
Usually they will bring the card reader right to your seat and you can use tap to pay in Portugal right from your phone.
Be sure to use a card that has no foreign transaction fees.
When the machine asks you if you want the bill to be charged in USD or Euro, always pick Euro!! When you choose Euro (the local currency) your credit card company will do the conversion at a better rate. When you choose USD then the establishment can mark up the conversion and your end bill can be more than expected. This applies in any country, by the way.
-> Our recommended travel cards <-
Enjoy your meal!
I hope these tips help you while you eat out in Portugal! Don't worry, in most major cities where you are likely to visit you will be able to get by in English. If you want to have a more interesting and enriching experience I invite you to to try some of the Portuguese phrases in this article!
Book a cruise to portugal!
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eating out in portugal
Portugal restaurant etiquette Portugal restaurant tipping Portugal restaurant menu Portugal restaurant reservations how to order food in portuguese how to order a beer in portuguese |
You know when you want a pastry, a delicious pastry filled with chocolate, but you also want said pastry to give an illusion of being "healthy" so you can hold your head up high, filled with pride, as you gobble it down?
Yes, I'm sure you've been in this very situation before unless you're one of those people who do not like sweets ... or joy. In which case that is definitely a sad existence and I am sorry to even let myself imagine it for a moment. On the other hand, If you're.a person who does not like sweet treats, but you do still like joy then I support that totally and at times I may even admire you all the more for it! :p
At any rate - we have found a solution for you at Aldi in Portugal!
Yes, I'm sure you've been in this very situation before unless you're one of those people who do not like sweets ... or joy. In which case that is definitely a sad existence and I am sorry to even let myself imagine it for a moment. On the other hand, If you're.a person who does not like sweet treats, but you do still like joy then I support that totally and at times I may even admire you all the more for it! :p
At any rate - we have found a solution for you at Aldi in Portugal!
Espiga multicereais Chocolate
Check this baby out!
I don't truly know the correct translation of the name Espiga Multicereais Chocolate to English.
Multicereais in Portuguese means multi-cereal, as in multigrain in English. Espiga apparently can mean "ear", "cobb", or "spike".
I don't truly know the correct translation of the name Espiga Multicereais Chocolate to English.
Multicereais in Portuguese means multi-cereal, as in multigrain in English. Espiga apparently can mean "ear", "cobb", or "spike".
Aldi Portugal's Espiga Multicereais Chocolate aka Chocolate Log
I guess now that I'm looking at the picture while typing this, the decorative (and functional, no doubt) slits at the top do sort of resemble the pattern of a wheat spike - so maybe we solved the mystery after all!
And obviously Chocolate means... chocolate. ;)
And obviously Chocolate means... chocolate. ;)
This Chocolate Nutella Filled Pastry should be enjoyed with a coffee and a friend
Speaking of chocolate... I want you to notice that this long, chocolate-filled Portuguese pastry is filled from end to end. None of this "filled" donut nonsense where there's one bite's worth of cream and the rest is dry donut. Talk about a scam.
No, my friend, this is the real chocolate-y deal. :)
No, my friend, this is the real chocolate-y deal. :)
This Portuguese Pastry is cheia, filled, end to end with nutella/chocolate
But remember, this chocolate pastry is HEALTHY. I mean look at all those little seeds and grains on top! There are bits of oat, flax seed, and who even knows what else - all you need to know is it's healthy. ;)
So many grains in the pastry and on top make this a "healthy choice" *wink*
And because I know you want to see that the inside of the affectionately nicknamed chocolate log pastry is not hollow... someone took a bite just for you! :)
To note, the majority of "chocolate" pastries in Portugal tend to have Nutella slant.
To note, the majority of "chocolate" pastries in Portugal tend to have Nutella slant.
Taking a bite.. for science. The people need to know!
Aldi Portuguese Pastry Review: Espiga MultiCereais Chocolate
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We love this chocolate pastry from Aldi in Portugal. It's a 5/5 for us. A great and super healthy reward for surviving the weekly grocery shopping trip. Jokes aside, the multi-grain element genuinely adds another layer of complexity to the flavor profile that we really enjoy. The nutella-but-thicker filling makes this entire pastry a bit heavy. You see, when you get half way through eating it, it's so delicious you want to finish it off. But once you finish it off you may feel like you ate just a bit too much. |
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SO! It's a perfect treat to split in two - one half for you and the other for a buddy or half for now and half for later!
And you should definitely enjoy it with a cafezinho (a little coffee, in cute-portuguese speak)
Aldi - please don't read this and make it smaller. That would be no bueno, er... mau. muito mau. Se faz favor, não faça isso. We like it how it is! Obrigada bjs. :) ❤
And you should definitely enjoy it with a cafezinho (a little coffee, in cute-portuguese speak)
Aldi - please don't read this and make it smaller. That would be no bueno, er... mau. muito mau. Se faz favor, não faça isso. We like it how it is! Obrigada bjs. :) ❤
How much is the multi-grain chocolate filled pastry at aldi in Portugal?
For the grocery cost-of-living in Portugal researchers, it's essential to know the cost of food staples like this.
The Espiga Multicereais Chocolate pastry is currently .99 euro cents in summer 2024 which is approximately $1.08 USD.
Not too shabby, eh?
The Espiga Multicereais Chocolate pastry is currently .99 euro cents in summer 2024 which is approximately $1.08 USD.
Not too shabby, eh?
Find Similar Content you'll enjoy in these folders:
Aldi • Grocery Reviews • Americans in Portugal • Expats in Portugal • Reviews • Pastries in Portugal
Our Delonghi Espresso Machine
Every great pastry not only deserves, but requires a great cafezinho.
We saved up for a Delonghi that was a nice balance between a solid espresso shot with some optional manual adjustments and the convenience of automation for busy days which, let's face it, is every day. If you're looking for a new espresso machine check out the Delonghi Magnifica on Amazon and compare the price to the Delonghi site to see who has the better sale price on Espresso Machines.
BTW. The cost of these machines is generally much cheaper in Europe than in the US. One of the few appliances where that is true - showing how culturally essential coffee is to the Portuguese people.
We saved up for a Delonghi that was a nice balance between a solid espresso shot with some optional manual adjustments and the convenience of automation for busy days which, let's face it, is every day. If you're looking for a new espresso machine check out the Delonghi Magnifica on Amazon and compare the price to the Delonghi site to see who has the better sale price on Espresso Machines.
BTW. The cost of these machines is generally much cheaper in Europe than in the US. One of the few appliances where that is true - showing how culturally essential coffee is to the Portuguese people.
Oh, Hey!
We're Justin and Marissa
We love to travel and eat!
Traveling Through Food is a place to share some of our adventures in travel and food so you can find inspiration for your next big trip whether it's around the world or down the freezer aisle at the grocery store. :p
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