Ponte de Lima is renowned across Portugal as the home of sarabulho, one of the most popular dishes in an extensive range of local specialities.
Every weekend the narrow streets of Ponte de Lima and the restaurants are teeming with people, drawn by the northern Portuguese version of the traditional Sunday roast.
The dictionary definition is ‘a dish made with pig’s blood and pork meat’, which, perhaps, suggests it is for the more adventurous diners.
We have had varied reviews from friends and family who have sampled sarabulho: from “we loved it” to “mmm, not sure”. But I reckon it is well worth a try.
Our favourite place to eat sarbulho is Beco das Selas, a small, traditional, family run restaurant just behind the main square in Ponte de Lima.
Sarabulho is the dish of the day, every day. Usually washed down with a large caneca of local wine. In Beco das Selas your food is freshly cooked in front of diners, offering an opportunity to see how this dish is prepared.
You will definitely have to book here, but this is the best place we have found for authentic sarabulho, confirmed by the fact that you always share the experience with local Portuguese families.
If you decide that sarabulho is a culinary step too far, there are lots of other interesting dishes on the menu.
Bacalhau (salt cod) is another Portuguese delicacy. It is also a firm favourite with our friends and family. Served with rice or fried potatoes
