Page 106 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2023 LISBON EDITION

Cervejaria Paco Real

Sardines are a big deal in Portugal. During The place was packed. Ron gave them another
the season, Lisbon’s air is “perfumed” with the try for lunch, knowing they were fresh and in
scent of charred fish. We tried sardines on one season. His plate full was delicious but messy,
of our first trips to the county and they were but after a quick lesson from Gabriel, he
awful. We later discovered that our sardines quickly got the hang of separating the sweet
were likely frozen since the sardine season fish meat from its bones. The service, espe-
had passed. Our walking tour guide, Gabriel, cially at lunchtime, is frantic, but friendly. This
took us to this popular no frills eatery, Cerve- is a must for authentic Portuguese dishes en-
jaria Paco Real, known for its cod and sardines. joyed without breaking the bank.

106 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2023