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Knowing Mandarin can surprisingly unlock access to many countries. It is extremely useful in East and Southeast Asia. First, you have China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Then, it serves as the lingua franca for the large Chinese communities in Singapore and Malaysia. Additionally, it helps a lot with reading signs in Japan, where Chinese characters are used for most words.

In this article, I’ll share a list of common Mandarin phrases and words. They can be very useful when you are traveling Asian countries.

## Contents

## Greetings

- **Hello (你好)** - Pronunciation: *nee haow*  
  Start your interactions with a friendly "你好" (Nǐ hǎo), the Mandarin way to say hello.

- **Thank you! (谢谢！)** - Pronunciation: *shyeh shyeh*  
  Express your gratitude by saying "谢谢" (Xièxiè) after receiving help or a kind gesture.

- **You're welcome! (不客气)** - Pronunciation: *boo keh chee*  
  If someone thanks you, respond with "不客气" (Bù kèqì), meaning "You're welcome."

- **Excuse me (对不起)** - Pronunciation: *dway boo chee*  
  "对不起" (Duìbuqǐ) is a versatile phrase used to apologize or to get someone's attention.

- **Please (请)** - Pronunciation: *ching*  
  Use "请" (Qǐng) to politely ask for something or to make a request.

- **Yes (是的)** - Pronunciation: *shih deh*  
  Simply say "是的" (Shì de) to agree or affirm something.

- **No (不是)** - Pronunciation: *boo shih*  
  "不是" (Bù shì) is your go-to word when you need to say no.

- **Bye bye (再见)** - Pronunciation: *zai jyen*  
  When it’s time to leave, say "再见" (Zàijiàn), a polite way to say goodbye.

## Dining

- **Menu (菜单)** - Pronunciation: *tsai dan*  
  When at a restaurant, ask for the "菜单" (Càidān) to see the list of available dishes.

- **Check (买单)** - Pronunciation: *mai dan*  
  When you’re ready to pay, say "买单" (Mǎidān) to request the bill.

- **Credit card (信用卡)** - Pronunciation: *sheen-yong kah*  
  If you’re paying by card, just say "信用卡" (Xìnyòngkǎ).

- **Cash (现金)** - Pronunciation: *shyan jin*  
  For cash payments, use the word "现金" (Xiànjīn).

- **The food is great! (真好吃！)** - Pronunciation: *zhen haow chuh!*  
  Compliment the chef by saying "真好吃" (Zhēn hǎochī), meaning "The food is great!"

- **Water (水)** - Pronunciation: *shway*  
  Simply ask for "水" (Shuǐ) if you need water.

- **Receipt (发票)** - Pronunciation: *fā piào*  
  When you need a receipt, say "发票" (Fāpiào).

## Asking for Prices

- **How much? (多少钱？)** - Pronunciation: *doo-oh shaow chyen?*  
  Whether you’re shopping or ordering food, "多少钱?" (Duōshǎo qián?) will help you ask for prices.

## Numbers

Knowing basic numbers can be extremely useful, especially when dealing with prices.

- **One (一)** - Pronunciation: *yi*  
- **Two (二)** - Pronunciation: *er*  
- **Three (三)** - Pronunciation: *san*  
- **Four (四)** - Pronunciation: *si*  
- **Five (五)** - Pronunciation: *wu*  
- **Six (六)** - Pronunciation: *liu*  
- **Seven (七)** - Pronunciation: *qi*  
- **Eight (八)** - Pronunciation: *ba*  
- **Nine (九)** - Pronunciation: *jiu*  
- **Ten (十)** - Pronunciation: *shi*  

## Navigating Places

- **Toilet (厕所)** - Pronunciation: *tsuh swor*  
  Asking for the "厕所" (Cèsuǒ) is essential during your travels.

- **Airport (机场)** - Pronunciation: *jee-chahng*  
  If you need to get to the airport, ask for the "机场" (Jīchǎng).

## Food and Drink

- **Tea (茶)** - Pronunciation: *chah*  
  "茶" (Chá) is a must-try in China, often enjoyed in traditional tea houses.

- **Water (水)** - Pronunciation: *shway*  
  Stay hydrated by asking for "水" (Shuǐ) when needed.

## Parting Words

- **Bye bye (再见)** - Pronunciation: *zai jyen*  
  When it's time to leave, say "再见" (Zàijiàn), a polite way to say goodbye.

## Download the App "LocalSpeaks"

If you’re looking for a quick language guide like this for multiple languages while traveling, great news! I created an app for that. [LocalSpeaks](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/localspeaks-talk-like-a-local/id6615060694) is a mobile app that provides simple and essential phrases along with their pronunciations, which you can listen to. It works offline, so it’s very convenient when you’re on the go.

I made this app to help make locals smile.




Common Mandarin Phrases For Travel

Spanish is an incredibly useful language, spoken in many countries across the world, including Spain, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, and more. Even Portuguese shares many similarities with Spanish (though the Portuguese often say they made several improvements when they developed their own language).

In this article, I’ll share a list of common Spanish phrases and words that will help you navigate a new Spanish-speaking country. These phrases are not just about communication—they're about connecting with the local people.

## Contents

## Greetings

- **Hello (Hola)** - Pronunciation: *oh-lah*  
  Start your interactions with a warm "Hola," the Spanish way to say hello.

- **Thank you! (¡Gracias!)** - Pronunciation: *grah-syahs*  
  Show your appreciation with a heartfelt "Gracias!" when someone helps you out.

- **You're welcome! (¡De nada!)** - Pronunciation: *deh nah-dah*  
  Respond with "De nada" when someone thanks you, meaning "You're welcome."

- **Excuse me (Disculpe)** - Pronunciation: *dees-kool-peh*  
  Use "Disculpe" to politely get someone's attention or to say "Excuse me."

- **Please (Por favor)** - Pronunciation: *por fah-vor*  
  "Por favor" is essential when making polite requests.

- **Yes (Sí)** - Pronunciation: *see*  
  "Sí" is the simple way to say yes.

- **No (No)** - Pronunciation: *noh*  
  "No" is universal and works the same way in Spanish.

- **Bye bye (Adiós)** - Pronunciation: *ah-dee-ohs*  
  "Adiós" is the traditional way to say goodbye in Spanish.

## Dining

- **Menu (Menú)** - Pronunciation: *meh-noo*  
  When dining out, ask for the "Menú" to see the list of dishes.

- **Check (Cuenta)** - Pronunciation: *kwen-tah*  
  Ready to pay? Say "Cuenta" to ask for the bill.

- **Credit card (Tarjeta de crédito)** - Pronunciation: *tar-heh-tah deh kre-dee-toh*  
  For card payments, say "Tarjeta de crédito." You can also use "Tarjeta" as a short form.

- **Cash (Efectivo)** - Pronunciation: *eh-fek-tee-voh*  
  Use "Efectivo" when paying with cash.

- **The food is great! (¡Qué Rico!)** - Pronunciation: *keh ree-koh*  
  Compliment the meal by saying "¡Qué Rico!" meaning "The food is great!"

- **Water (Agua)** - Pronunciation: *ah-gwah*  
  Stay hydrated by asking for "Agua."

## Asking for Prices

- **How much? (¿Cuánto?)** - Pronunciation: *kwan-toh*  
  Whether shopping or dining, "¿Cuánto?" is a handy phrase to ask for prices.

## Numbers

Understanding numbers is vital, especially when dealing with prices.

- **One (Uno)** - Pronunciation: *oo-noh*  
- **Two (Dos)** - Pronunciation: *dohs*  
- **Three (Tres)** - Pronunciation: *trays*  
- **Four (Cuatro)** - Pronunciation: *kwah-troh*  
- **Five (Cinco)** - Pronunciation: *seen-koh*  
- **Six (Seis)** - Pronunciation: *says*  
- **Seven (Siete)** - Pronunciation: *see-eh-teh*  
- **Eight (Ocho)** - Pronunciation: *oh-choh*  
- **Nine (Nueve)** - Pronunciation: *nweh-beh*  
- **Ten (Diez)** - Pronunciation: *dyez*  

## Navigating Places

- **Toilet (Baño)** - Pronunciation: *ban-yo*  
  "Baño" is crucial when you need to find a restroom.

- **Airport (Aeropuerto)** - Pronunciation: *ah-eh-roh-pwer-toh*  
  Ask for the "Aeropuerto" when you need to get to the airport.

- **Bakery (Panadería)** - Pronunciation: *pah-nah-deh-ree-ah*  
  Find delicious pastries at the "Panadería."

## Food and Drink

- **Spanish Omelette (Tortilla Española)** - Pronunciation: *tor-tee-yah es-pah-nyoh-lah*  
  A must-try dish in Spain, the "Tortilla Española" is a potato omelette.

- **Coffee (Café)** - Pronunciation: *kah-feh*  
  For a caffeine fix, order a "Café."

- **Wine (Vino)** - Pronunciation: *vee-noh*  
  "Vino" is the word for wine, perfect for enjoying a glass with your meal.

- **Bread (Pan)** - Pronunciation: *pahn*  
  Bread is a staple in Spain, and "Pan" is the word you'll need.


## Download the app "LocalSpeaks"

Looking for a quick language guide for multiple languages while traveling? Great news! I created an app for that. [LocalSpeaks](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/localspeaks-talk-like-a-local/id6615060694) is a mobile app that provides simple and essential phrases along with their pronunciations, which you can listen to. It works offline, so it's very convenient when you're on the go.

I made this app to help make locals smile.


Common Spanish Phrases For Travel


Turkey, especially Istanbul, is one of my favorite places to visit. The country offers great people, great food, rich history, stunning architecture, and even great cats! My secret to making a great first impression when visiting a new place is learning a bit of the local language, starting with greetings. 

In this article, I’ll share a list of common Turkish phrases and words to get you started on your journey! I learned most of them from the locals in Istanbul.


## Contents

## Greetings and Basic Expressions

- **Hello (Merhaba)** - Pronunciation: *mare-ha-ba*  
  Start your interactions on the right note with a friendly "Merhaba," the Turkish way to say hello.

- **Thank you! (Teşekkürler)** - Pronunciation: *teh-shek-kur-ler*  
  Express your gratitude by saying "Teşekkürler" after receiving help or a kind gesture.

- **You're welcome! (Rica ederim)** - Pronunciation: *ri-jah eh-deh-rim*  
  If someone thanks you, respond with "Rica ederim," meaning "You're welcome."

- **Excuse me (Pardon)** - Pronunciation: *par-don*  
  "Pardon" is a versatile phrase used to get someone's attention or to say "Excuse me" when navigating through crowded places.

- **Please (Lütfen)** - Pronunciation: *loot-fen*  
  Use "Lütfen" to politely ask for something or to make a request.

- **Yes (Evet)** - Pronunciation: *eh-vet*  
  Simply say "Evet" to agree or affirm something.

- **No (Hayır)** - Pronunciation: *ha-yir*  
  "Hayır" is your go-to word when you need to say no.

## Essential Phrases for Dining

- **Menu (Menüyü)** - Pronunciation: *men-oo-yoo*  
  When at a restaurant, ask for the "Menüyü" to see the list of available dishes.

- **Check (Hesap)** - Pronunciation: *heh-sahp*  
  When you're ready to pay, say "Hesap" to request the bill.

- **Credit card (Kredi kartı)** - Pronunciation: *kre-dee kar-tuh*  
  If you're paying by card, just say "Kredi kartı."

- **Cash (Nakit)** - Pronunciation: *na-kit*  
  For cash payments, use the word "Nakit."

- **The food is great! (Çok iyi)** - Pronunciation: *chok ee-yee*  
  Compliment the chef by saying "Çok iyi," meaning "The food is great!"

- **Water (Su)** - Pronunciation: *soo*  
  Simply ask for "Su" if you need water.

## Asking for Prices

- **How much? (Ne kadar?)** - Pronunciation: *ne ka-dar?*  
  Whether you're shopping at the Grand Bazaar or buying street food, "Ne kadar?" will come in handy to ask for prices.

## Numbers You Should Know

Knowing basic numbers can be extremely useful, especially when dealing with prices.

- **One (Bir)** - Pronunciation: *beer*  
- **Two (İki)** - Pronunciation: *ee-kee*  
- **Three (Üç)** - Pronunciation: *ooch*  
- **Four (Dört)** - Pronunciation: *dert*  
- **Five (Beş)** - Pronunciation: *besh*  
- **Six (Altı)** - Pronunciation: *ahl-tuh*  
- **Seven (Yedi)** - Pronunciation: *yeh-dee*  
- **Eight (Sekiz)** - Pronunciation: *seh-keez*  
- **Nine (Dokuz)** - Pronunciation: *doh-kooz*  
- **Ten (On)** - Pronunciation: *ohn*  

## Navigating Places

- **Toilet (Tuvalet)** - Pronunciation: *too-vah-let*  
  Asking for the "Tuvalet" is essential during your travels.

- **Airport (Havalimanı)** - Pronunciation: *ha-va-lee-ma-nuh*  
  If you need to get to the airport, ask for the "Havalimanı."

- **Bakery (Fırın)** - Pronunciation: *fuh-ruhn*  
  "Fırın" is where you'll find delicious Turkish pastries and bread.

## Food and Drink

- **Turkish Tea (Çay)** - Pronunciation: *chah-y*  
  "Çay" is a must-try in Turkey, often enjoyed in small, tulip-shaped glasses.

- **Coffee (Kahve)** - Pronunciation: *kahv-eh*  
  For a strong pick-me-up, order a "Kahve."

- **Ayran** - Pronunciation: *eye-rahn*  
  This savory yogurt drink, unique to Turkey, is refreshing and worth a try!

- **Chicken (Tavuk)** - Pronunciation: *tah-vook*  
  "Tavuk" is a common dish you'll find in many Turkish meals.

- **Soup (Çorba)** - Pronunciation: *chor-bah*  
  Start your meal with a warm bowl of "Çorba."

## Parting Words

- **Bye bye (Güle güle)** - Pronunciation: *goo-lay goo-lay*  
  When it's time to leave, say "Güle güle," a warm way to say goodbye.


## Download the app "LocalSpeaks"

If you're looking for a quick language guide like this for multiple languages while traveling, great news! I created an app for that. [LocalSpeaks](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/localspeaks-talk-like-a-local/id6615060694) is a mobile app that provides simple and essential phrases along with their pronunciations, which you can listen to. It works offline, so it's very convenient when you're on the go.


I made this app to help make locals smile.

Common Turkish Phrases For Travelers


If you’re new to the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and looking for some great spots to enjoy a variety of delicious foods, here are some of my favorites. 

## Contents

## Desserts
- **[Piefalootin](http://www.piefalootin.com) (Garland)**: A dessert lover’s paradise.

## BBQ
- **[Hutchins BBQ](https://hutchinsbbq.com) (McKinney and Frisco)**: Fantastic meats and sides, great beef ribs, plus free desserts.
- **[Tender Smokehouse](https://www.instagram.com/tendersmokehouse/) (Frisco)**: Best known for their pork ribs (not brisket).
- **[Linke's BBQ](https://www.facebook.com/LinkesBBQ/) (Wylie)**: Great brisket.
- **[Terry Black's](https://www.terryblacksbbq.com) (Dallas)**: Great beef ribs.
- **[El Tejas Twist](https://www.facebook.com/ElTejasTwist/) (Forney)**: Great beef ribs.
- **[Smoke Sessions](https://www.smokesessionsbbq.com) (Royse City)**: Excellent brisket and amazing potato salad.


## Steaks
- **[Eddie V’s](https://www.eddiev.com) (Dallas)**: High-end dining experience.
- **[Silver Fox](https://www.silverfoxcafe.com) (Fort Worth, Richardson)**: Elegant atmosphere with delicious steaks.
- **[Bob’s Steak & Chop House](https://www.bobs-steakandchop.com) (Dallas)**: A well-known favorite.
- **[Pappa Bros. Steakhouse](https://pappasbros.com) (Dallas)**: Premium steak experience.
- **[Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille](https://perryssteakhouse.com) (Dallas)**: Known for their pork chops as well.
- **[The Winewood Grill](https://thewinewood.com) (Grapevine)**: A great spot for steak in Grapevine.


## Italian
- **[Terra at Eataly](https://www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/dallas) (North Park, Dallas)**: Authentic Italian dishes. Check out the Terra restaurant within Eataly, a branch of the renowned Italian marketplace founded by Oscar Farinetti.


## Tex-Mex
- **[El Tejas Twist](https://www.facebook.com/ElTejasTwist/) (Forney)**: A unique blend of Tex-Mex and BBQ.
- **[Mena's](https://www.menastexmexgrill.com) (Flower Mound, Richardson and Carrollton)**: Classic Tex-Mex dishes.
- **[Cuquita’s](https://cuquitasrestaurants.comm) (Garland, Dallas, and Farmer’s Branch)**: Another favorite for Tex-Mex.
- **[Esparza’s](https://www.esparzastexas.com) (Grapevine)**: Known for their enchiladas and more.
- **[Gonzales Tex-Mex](http://www.gonzalezrestaurant.com/aboutus.html) (Dallas)**: Best homemade flour tortillas.
- **[Sueño](https://www.suenocm.com) (Richardson)**: Top-notch dining experience.


## Tacos
- **[Tranky's Tacos](https://www.trankystacos.com) (Garland)**: A must-try for taco lovers.


## Fancy Mexican Restaurant
- **[The Mexican](https://www.themexican.com) (Dallas)**: For a more upscale Mexican dining experience.

## Tamales
- **[El Tejas Twist](https://www.facebook.com/ElTejasTwist/) (Forney)**: If you need to buy them.
- **[Tamaleria Nuevo León](https://www.facebook.com/p/Tamaleria-Nuevo-León-100063717664037/) (Richardson)**: Their spicy pork tamales are the best.
- **[House Tamal](https://www.yelp.com/biz/house-tamal-garland) (Garland)**: Another great spot for tamales.


## Cajun
- **[The South](https://thesouthwylie.com) (Wylie)**: Best homemade Cajun food. (Also, the owner is one of our neighbors!)

## Seafood
- **[Pappadeaux](https://pappadeaux.com/home/) (Multiple Locations)**: Excellent seafood dishes, not just fried options. Favorites include the Mahi (or Salmon) Alexander and blackened sea bass.
- **[Flying Fish](https://flyingfishrestaurant.com) (Plano, Garland)**: Great, casual, consistent, and inexpensive seafood. The Plano location is better than the Garland location.
- **[Anaya’s Seafood](https://www.anayaseafood.com) (Richardson)**: Another favorite.
- **[Urban Seafood](https://www.urbanseafoodcompany.com) (Plano)**: Fantastic calamari steak, though it might be a special and not always on the menu.



## Burgers
- **[Tranky's Tacos](https://www.trankystacos.com) (Garland)**: Yes, they have great burgers too.
- **[Burger House](https://burgerhouse.com) (Garland)**: Classic burgers.
- **[Boots Burgers](https://www.bootsburgers.com) (Rockwall)**: A local favorite.
- **[Liberty Burger](https://www.libertyburger.com) (Multiple Locations)**: Right next to Silver Fox, great burgers.


## Pizza
- **[Urban Crust](https://urbancrust.com) (Plano)**: Delicious wood-fired pizza.
- **[Zanata](https://www.zanatas.com) (Rockwall)**: Great pizza spot. Try the grilled pork chop with lobster truffle risotto and the Z salad. The shrimp and shrooms dish is popular but may be on the specials menu. It's best to arrive early (around 5pm) to avoid a long wait, especially on Wednesdays. After 8pm, it’s easier to get a table.
- **[Venezia Cafe](https://www.veneziaspizzarichardson.com) (Richardson/Murphy)**: Fantastic Italian-style pizza.
- **[Zalat](https://www.zalatpizza.com) (CityLine, Richardson)**: Great for a quick pizza fix.

## Fried Chicken
- **[Babe’s Chicken](https://www.babeschicken.com) (Multiple Locations)**: All locations are fantastic for fried chicken.
- **[Ricky’s Hot Chicken](https://www.rickyshotchicken.com) (Richardson)**: Best for chicken tenders and fries. Note that everything is spicy, even the "mild," so it’s not for everyone.


## Salad and Sandwiches
- **[Eatzi’s](https://eatzis.com) (Plano)**: Great selection of salads and sandwiches.

----
All these spots are within a 30-minute drive and are definitely worth the trip. Enjoy exploring the culinary delights of the DFW Metroplex!




My Favorite Food Spots in DFW Metro Area (2024)


In July 2024, we visited Lisbon as part of our around-the-world summer trip. In this post, I'll share my favorite foods and drinks from our stay.

## Contents

## Food

### Cod Cake (Bolinhos de Bacalhau)

**What is it?**  
Cod cakes, or Bolinhos de Bacalhau, are traditional Portuguese snacks made from a mixture of salted cod, potatoes, onions, parsley, and eggs, which are then deep-fried until golden and crispy.

**History**  
Salted cod, known as bacalhau, has been a staple in Portuguese cuisine for centuries, dating back to the Age of Discoveries in the 15th and 16th centuries. Portuguese sailors needed food that could be preserved for long voyages, and bacalhau was the perfect solution. Bolinhos de Bacalhau were created as a way to make a delicious and portable meal from this staple.

**Taste**  
These delightful cakes have a crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior. The salted cod gives a unique taste that's both savory and slightly salty, perfectly complemented by the creamy potato and aromatic herbs.

![Making of Cod Cake](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/making-of-cod-cake.jpg)
*Making of Cod Cake*

![Cod Cake and Rice](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/cod-cake-and-rice.jpg)
*Cod Cake and Rice we had in Faro*

We had our first one not in Lisbon, but in Faro, and it quickly became a favorite!



![Cod Fish Cake](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/cod-fish-cake.jpg)
*Cod Fish Cake*
### Polvo (Octopus)

**What is it?**  
Polvo refers to octopus, a beloved seafood in Portuguese cuisine, often featured in various dishes from grilled preparations to salads.

**History**  
Octopus has been consumed in Portugal for centuries, often associated with coastal communities where fishing is a way of life. Polvo à Lagareiro, a popular dish involving roasted octopus with potatoes, is a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations.

**Taste**  
My family loves octopus dishes for their tender yet slightly chewy texture and the rich, briny flavor. When grilled, the octopus has a smoky, charred exterior while remaining juicy and tender inside. When fried, it offers a delightful crunch.

We enjoyed a fantastic grilled octopus dish and a fried octopus sandwich at *Restaurante O Tasco Do Vigário* near the flea market.

One of the top places to try octopus in Lisbon is *Quiosque de São Paulo* in downtown *Cais do Sodré*. Run by the same people behind *Taberna da Rua das Flores*, this kiosk serves meticulously prepared snacks. The octopus salad, featuring cooked octopus with finely diced peppers, onion, coriander, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and salt, is a must-try and arguably one of the best in Lisbon. Though the portions are small, the quality is worth it, and you can always order more or try their legendary fried squid sandwich.

![Octopus Salad](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/octopus-salad.jpg)
*Octopus Salad that we had at Quiosque de São Paulo*

![Octopus Sandwich](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/octopus-sandwich.jpg)
*Fried Octopus Sandwich that we had at Quiosque de São Paulo*


![Octopus Rice](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/octpus-rice.jpg)
*Octopus Rice that we had at Tasco Do Marinheiro*

![Grilled Octopus](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-octopus.jpg)
*Grilled Octopus that we had at Restaurante O Tasco Do Vigário*


### Sardinha (Sardine)

**What is it?**  
Sardinhas are fresh sardines, often grilled whole and served simply with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.

**History**  
Grilled sardines, or Sardinhas Assadas, are a highlight of the popular festival, Festa de Santo António, held every June in Lisbon. This tradition dates back to the early 20th century and celebrates Saint Anthony, the city's patron saint. During this time, the streets of Lisbon are filled with the aroma of grilled sardines.

**Taste**  
These small, oily fish are packed with flavor, offering a perfect balance of smokiness from the grill and natural, briny goodness. The flesh is tender and juicy, making for a satisfying bite.

### Arroz de Marisco (Seafood Rice)

**What is it?**  
Arroz de Marisco is a Portuguese seafood rice dish similar to a risotto or paella, brimming with a variety of seafood such as shrimp, clams, mussels, and sometimes lobster, all cooked in a rich, flavorful broth.

**History**  
This dish is a relatively modern creation, reflecting Portugal's rich maritime heritage. It showcases the country's abundant seafood and is a popular dish in coastal regions. The concept of combining rice with seafood likely has influences from neighboring Spain and their famous paella.

**Taste**  
This dish is a seafood lover's dream, with each bite bursting with the ocean's essence. The rice is perfectly cooked, absorbing all the savory flavors from the seafood and broth, creating a harmonious and hearty meal.

![Seafood Rice](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/seafood-rice.jpg)
*Seafood Rice that we had at Tasco Do Marinheiro*

### Grilled Seafood

Lisbon is famous for its fresh and flavorful grilled seafood. Here are some popular options you must try:

- **Grilled Octopus**: Locally sourced octopus, expertly grilled to perfection with a smoky, charred exterior and tender, juicy interior.
- **Grilled Sardines**: Local sardines are a favorite, especially during the summer festivals. Grilled to a crisp and served with a simple seasoning of olive oil and sea salt.
- **Grilled Salmon**: While not locally sourced (typically from colder seas), grilled salmon is a popular choice for its rich, fatty texture and slightly smoky flavor. This is my favorite!
- **Grilled Bream**: This locally sourced fish is another staple, offering a delicate, flaky texture and mild, sweet flavor when grilled.

![Grilled Tuna](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-tuna.jpg)
*Grilled Tuna*

Each type of seafood is enhanced by the grilling process, which adds a unique, smoky flavor while preserving the natural taste and freshness of the fish.


![Grilled Bream](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-bream.jpg)
*Grilled Bream that we had at Tasco Do Marinheiro*

![Grilled Salmon](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-salmon.jpg)
*Grilled Salmon*

![Grilled Sardine](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/grilled-sardine.jpg)
*Grilled Sardine*


## Drinks

### Ginja

**What is Ginja?**  
Ginja, also known as Ginjinha, is a Portuguese liqueur made by infusing ginja berries (sour cherries) in alcohol, often with added sugar and sometimes cinnamon.

**History**  
Ginja originated in the 19th century in Lisbon, particularly in the Bairro Alto district. A Galician friar named Francisco Espinheira created the first batch, and it quickly became a popular local drink. Several traditional establishments, such as A Ginjinha, continue to serve this liqueur, preserving its historical significance.

**Taste**  
Ginja is sweet and slightly tart, with a robust cherry flavor and a hint of spice. It is often served in a shot glass or a small chocolate cup, making for a delicious and unique treat.

*A Ginjinha* is the first bar to sell ginjinha in Lisbon, and is a designated Loja Com História (historic shop). A Ginjinha has been pouring its signature sour cherry liqueur, Espinheira Ginja, since 1840. 

![Ginja Shop](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/ginja-shop.jpg)
*Ginja Shop called A Ginjinha, near Praça do Rossio (Rossio Square)*

![Pouring Ginja](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/pouring-ginja.jpg)
*The shop owner pouring Ginja for us at A Ginjinha*

Enjoying Ginja in a chocolate cup adds an extra layer of decadence, as the rich chocolate melts in your mouth, blending perfectly with the cherry liqueur.

![Ginja in Chocolate Cup](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/ginja-in-chocolate-cup.jpg)
*Ginja in Chocolate Cup*

![Ginja Stores](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/ginja-stores.jpg)
*Ginja Bottles displayed at A Ginjinha*

### Sangria

**What is Sangria?**  
Sangria is a popular Spanish and Portuguese punch made with red or white wine, mixed with various fruits, a sweetener, and sometimes a splash of brandy or other spirits.

**History**  
Sangria has roots in the Iberian Peninsula dating back to the Middle Ages. It became particularly popular in the 18th and 19th centuries as a refreshing drink for social gatherings and fiestas. The name "sangria" comes from the Spanish word for "blood," referring to its typically deep red color.

**Taste**  
Sangria is refreshing and fruity, with the wine providing a smooth base complemented by the sweetness and slight tartness of the mixed fruits. It's perfect for enjoying on a warm summer day.

## Sweets

### Pasteis de nata (Egg Tarts)

Pasteis de nata is literally everywhere in Portugal. These famous custard tarts have a flaky, buttery crust filled with a rich, creamy custard that's caramelized on top, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

**History**  
Originating from the Jerónimos Monastery in the 18th century, these tarts were created by monks who used egg yolks left over from starching their clothes. The recipe was later sold to the nearby Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém, which continues to make the original version to this day. According to local legend, Pastéis de Belém, a bakery next to the Jerónimos Monastery, holds the original recipe for these tasty tarts. It’s the most famous spot in Lisbon to eat pastéis de nata and is an absolute must when you visit. Since 1837, locals and tourists alike have been lining up to snag a box of custard tarts to eat in the café or on the go. As the original, Pastéis de Belém is still an iconic spot in Lisbon to enjoy a delicious custard tart in a charming and lively atmosphere.

Another excellent spot to try these tarts is Manteigaria - Pastéis de Nata Factory. Located in the Time Out Market and other locations around the city, Manteigaria is renowned for its perfectly balanced custard tarts with a crispy, flaky crust. Watching the tarts being made fresh adds to the experience, making it a must-visit. The price of a Pastel de nata is a little more than 1 euro, making it an affordable and delightful treat.

![Egg Tarts](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/egg-tarts.jpg)
*Egg Tarts at Pastéis de Nata Factory*

**Taste**  
I found the taste of Pasteis de nata in Portugal a lot sweeter than the ones sold in Chinatown. Some of my Chinese friends even pointed out my photos of Pasteis de nata here and wondered whether they were burned because of the big dark dots. It turns out the dark dots are caramelized sugar. It shows why they are so sweet.

![Making of Egg Tarts](/assets/blog/food-drinks-to-try-in-lisbon-portugal/making-of-egg-tarts.jpg)
*Making of Egg Tarts*


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