29 Oct Gastronomy
Characterised by an intense fishing activity since time immemorial, it is therefore not strange that Setúbal’s gastronomy is based on fish, shellfish and marine mollusks. Fried squid is the most famous dish, and the one that brings more visitors to the region. But eels, either fried or in a stew, the fish caldeiradas stews and the rice dishes, garnished with either fish or seafood, also make a regular presence in both popular taverns, as well as in more sophisticated establishments. And if Setúbal is the Land of Fish – having even been granted a corresponding trademark – it is also the land of the Moscatel, a very unique wine, and also an iconic symbol of this region. To taste all of this, it is very worthwhile to make a reservation at one of restaurants in the city.
Setúbal has an amazing climate, due to the proximity to Arrabida Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. Typically a Mediterranean climate where rain in Winter is rare and the Summer is perfect. The region is famous by more than 250 wine producers with different dimensions of production, but always excellent quality. Moscatel de Setúbal is the most famous liquor and has a worldwide reputation. Based on muscat grape variety, gives fame to this region.
Livramento Market, Setúbal
Livramento Market (Mercado do Livramento, Setúbal) is a superb food market, known for its always fresh fish and fruit stalls. In 2015 was considered by the American Newspaper USA TODAY as one of the best fish worldwide markets.
You will find also vegetables, herbs, and regional products, mainly from local producers. Founded in 1875 served the community for centuries and you will be amazed by the dimension, diversity of ingredients, and how beautiful it is with the tile panels on the top. More than 300 sellers and 900 people working on a daily basis.
Exceptional Wineries in Setúbal
José Maria da Fonseca was founded in 1834 and is the oldest table wine company in Portugal. JM da Fonseca was the first to bottle red wine in Portugal in 1850 with Periguita. At the time, only Madeira and Port were bottled, and the rest was bulk wine. JM da Fonseca also started the infamous Lancers sweet rosé table wine in 1944. The family-owned company is based in the village of Azeitão on the Setúbal Peninsula and is now in its 7th generation. Sixth-generation Domingos Soares Franco was the first Portuguese person to graduate from UC Davis. A visit to JM da Fonseca includes a guided tour through the company museum. This is not only a good way to learn the history of the producer but to learn the history of the region as well.
Bacalhôa Vinhos de Portugal, SA is one of the largest wineries in Portugal with properties in seven Portuguese wine-growing regions, including Setúbal. Schedule a visit to the Bacalhôa Palace, a 14th-century property that belonged to João, Infante of Portugal, son of King D. João. It was passed down through generations and then sold to another Portuguese family in the 1500s. In 1936, the Bacalhôa Palace was bought and restored by American Orlena Scoville and in the 1970s her grandson began crafting the property into one of the largest wine producers in Portugal. The architecture of the palace, as well as its decoration and gardens, have been influenced over the centuries by the different owners, inspired by their travels through Europe, Africa, and Asia.
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