When you think of gourmet European food destinations, cities like Rome, Paris, and even London were counted among the leaders for many years. But for the first time this year, Lisbon, Portugal has taken the lead and been honoured with the title of Best Culinary Destination in Europe award at the World Culinary Awards. In a ceremony held in Dubai, the capital city was awarded the title and recognised for its diverse culinary delights and high-quality offerings.
Lisbon has quietly been accumulating several world-class restaurants and currently boasts 17+ Michelin-recognised destinations that span the cuisines from local chefs highlighting Portuguese ingredients to Japanese Izakayas. Lisbon is a culturally diverse city and embraces the many palates that encapsulate its population with creativity. India also has a place among the many stunning eateries in the city which highlight the historical links between the countries, dating back all the way to 1498 when Vasco Da Gama reached Calicut and the Portuguese inroads into India began.
The most notable Portuguese cultural influence began in Goa with their arrival in 1510. The Portuguese general Albuquerque seized Goa from the Sultan of Bijapur, bringing with them new culinary ingredients such as potatoes, chillies, tomatoes, cashews, pineapples, bread, vinegar, and various meats. Goa soon earned the title ‘Goa Dourada’ or Golden Goa, reflecting its beauty and prosperity.
The Portuguese colonisation of Goa profoundly transformed .
