15. Stewed Veal Tongue with Peas (Língua de vitela estufada com ervilhas) – 14€
Desserts
16. Portuguese Almond Cake (Toucinho do céu) – 3€
17. Chocolate Mousse (Mousse de chocolate) – 3€
18. Pastel de Nata
19. Arroz Doce
20. Sardine Ribs (Costelinhas de sardinha) – 5.5€
STARTERS
1. Garlic Shrimp (Gambas ao alho) – 7.5€: The first thing I tried was the Garlic Shrimp. The shrimp were juicy and full of flavor, cooked in a delicious garlic sauce that made me want more with each bite. The sauce was rich and perfectly seasoned, coating each shrimp with a burst of garlicky goodness. The freshness of the shrimp combined with the robust garlic flavor made this dish an unforgettable start to my meal. The portion was generous, and the shrimp were cooked just right, not too soft and not too firm. Each bite felt like a small explosion of taste, making it impossible to resist reaching for another.
2. Codfish Cakes (Bolinhos de bacalhau, 4 units) – 3.5€: Next, I had the Codfish Cakes. These little cakes were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a rich cod flavor that was simply delightful. They reminded me of the sea, fresh and tasty. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the tender, flavorful interior was perfect. Each bite took me closer to the ocean, evoking memories of coastal breezes and salty air. The cakes were served with a tangy dipping sauce that added an extra layer of flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable. The presentation was simple yet elegant, highlighting the quality of the ingredients used.
3. Octopus Salad (Saladinha de polvo) – 6€: The Octopus Salad was a refreshing dish, with tender pieces of octopus mixed with fresh vegetables. The flavors were light and perfect for a warm day. The octopus was perfectly cooked, not too chewy, and the crisp vegetables added a nice contrast. The salad was dressed lightly, allowing the natural flavors of the octopus and veggies to shine through, making it a delightful and healthy appetizer. The salad was garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, enhancing its freshness. The combination of textures and flavors made this dish a standout starter that I would highly recommend to anyone.
4. Bacalhau à Brás: One of the first dishes I tried was Bacalhau à Brás. This dish combines shredded cod with onions, potatoes, and eggs, creating a savory and comforting start to the meal. The blend of flavors and textures is simply unforgettable. The crispy potatoes, mixed with the soft cod and creamy eggs, create a harmonious blend that dances on your taste buds. It’s a traditional Portuguese dish that truly showcases the culinary expertise of the chefs at Taberna dos Mercadores. The dish was garnished with fresh parsley, adding a touch of color and freshness. Each bite was a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a truly memorable dish.
5. Caldo Verde: Another must-try appetizer is Caldo Verde, a traditional green soup made with kale and chorizo. It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for setting the tone for a delicious dining experience. The soup is a beautiful green color, thanks to the fresh kale, and the chorizo adds a smoky flavor that complements the greens perfectly. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that warms your soul. The soup was served with a slice of crusty bread, perfect for dipping. The combination of the warm soup and the crusty bread was comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect start to the meal.
MAIN COURSES
6. Narcisa-style Cod (Bacalhau à Narcisa) – 15€: The Narcisa-style Cod was a highlight. The cod was cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and tender inside. The flavors were bold and delicious. The dish was garnished with garlic and herbs, adding an extra layer of flavor. Each bite was a delightful mix of crispy and tender, making it a standout on the menu. The cod was served with a side of roasted potatoes and sautéed greens, which complemented the fish perfectly. The combination of the crispy fish and the savory sides made this dish a complete and satisfying meal.
7. Hake Fillets with Clam Rice (Filetes de Pescada com arroz berbigão) – 15€: The Hake Fillets were served with a side of clam rice. The combination of the fish and rice was delightful, with each bite offering a mix of textures and flavors. The fillets were flaky and moist, while the clam rice was rich and savory. This dish beautifully captured the essence of coastal cuisine. The hake was lightly seasoned, allowing its natural flavor to shine through. The clam rice was cooked to perfection, with each grain of rice absorbing the rich, briny flavor of the clams. The combination of the two made this dish a true delight for seafood lovers.
8. Taberna-style Octopus (Polvo à Taberna) – 21€: The Octopus dish was another standout. The octopus was tender and flavorful, served with a sauce that was rich and savory. It was a dish I will remember for a long time. The sauce had a perfect balance of spices, enhancing the natural sweetness of the octopus. Each bite was a celebration of flavors, making it a must-try. The octopus was garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, adding a touch of freshness to the dish. The presentation was beautiful, with the octopus arranged elegantly on the plate. This dish was a true testament to the culinary skills of the chefs at Taberna dos Mercadores.
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