This captivating photo story, brought to you by National Geographic Traveller (UK), unveils the culinary treasures of Aveiro, Portugal. Among the multitude of restaurants scattered around the lagoon, one stands out as a true gem – A Peixaria, meaning ‘The Fishmonger.’ Located in the quaint village of Sao Jacinto, the restaurant specializes in serving delectable locally caught fish and seafood. From succulent lagoon cuttlefish and goose barnacles to razor clams, meaty turbot, and red bream, the dishes are a celebration of the region’s marine bounty, prepared with great finesse and expertise…
The article showcases stunning photographs by Mark Perren Taylor, capturing the essence of the region’s seafood culture. On the southern arm of Aveiro lagoon’s sandbar lies Costa Nova village, where generations of fisherfolk have made their home. The village’s charming cottages, adorned with vibrant colors and patterns, have now become highly sought-after residences and holiday rentals, offering a delightful backdrop for a truly immersive experience…
The traditional moliceiro boats, originally used for transporting salt and harvesting seagrass, now carry tourists on captivating canal tours through Aveiro’s waterways. The lagoon itself teems with an abundance of fish, including bream, lamprey, and, most notably, eel. The local chefs have honed the art of eel preparation, skillfully looping the tail through the head to create a delicious and slippery treat…
Venturing to the other side of the sandbar, one finds rock piers stretching into the Atlantic, providing locals with a perfect spot for angling. For those seeking a gastronomic delight even when their fishing luck is down, Bela Ria restaurant in nearby Gafanha de Aquém is the place to be. The restaurant offers classic recipes, such as the renowned baked salt-cod with potato and onion, aptly named bacalhau confraria, a dish recognized for its exceptional taste and heritage…
Amidst Aveiro’s historical prosperity, salt and bacalhau played a pivotal role, contributing to its exceptional wealth during the early 20th century. The affluent influx of Brazilian families during the 1920s led to the construction of exquisite art deco and art nouveau style homes and business premises. Among these architectural marvels is the Museu de Arte Nova, a testimony to the city’s opulent past…
As you immerse yourself in this visual feast, the photo story reveals the allure of Aveiro’s culinary heritage, with its seafood delights, captivating landscapes, and rich cultural history. This article, featured in Issue 20 (summer 2023) of Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK), promises an unforgettable culinary journey and an invitation to explore the wonders of Aveiro, Portugal. To cherish more captivating stories like this, don’t hesitate to subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine, available in select countries.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about seafood
What is the focus of the photo story?
The focus of the photo story is to explore and savor the seafood delights of Aveiro, Portugal, along with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
Which restaurant stands out for its seafood offerings?
A Peixaria (‘The Fishmonger’) is the standout restaurant known for its locally caught fish and seafood specialties.
Where is Costa Nova village located, and what is it known for?
Costa Nova village is located on the southern arm of Aveiro lagoon’s sandbar in Portugal. It is known for being the home of fisherfolk for generations and its distinctive cottages painted with vibrant colors and patterns.
What were traditional moliceiro boats used for, and what do they do now?
Traditional moliceiro boats were originally used to transport salt and harvest seagrass. Now, they ferry sightseers around Aveiro’s canals, offering captivating canal tours.
How do local chefs traditionally prepare eels?
Local chefs traditionally prepare eels by looping the tail through the head, a method that requires skill and precision.
What is the significance of salt and bacalhau to Aveiro’s history?
Salt and bacalhau (salt-cod) played a significant role in Aveiro’s history, contributing to its exceptional wealth during the early 20th century.
What is the Museu de Arte Nova?
The Museu de Arte Nova is a museum in Aveiro, Portugal, showcasing the city’s rich cultural history, particularly the art deco and art nouveau architectural styles from the early 20th century.
Where can readers find this photo story?
Readers can find this photo story in Issue 20 (summer 2023) of Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine.