What an unexpected gem! A tinned fish shop right in the heart of Times Square is as random as it sounds. The sight of millions of colorful tinned sardines decorating the store was both epic and, indeed, fantastic. Initially skeptical about spending a premium on tinned fish without understanding what made it special, I took a leap of faith (or craziness) and brought a tin home. It turns out, this shop represents the oldest fish-in-the-tin business from Portugal, with NY being their first foray into going global. I opted for the sardines in olive oil, a seemingly standard choice that packed a surprise with its slightly smaller sardines compared to what you typically find in supermarkets. The tenderness, delightful aroma, and complex flavors of these sardines were a rather shock. Four pieces simply weren't enough. Learning about the shop's heritage added a layer of appreciation for the product, despite the near $20 price tag for a tin feeling super steep, especially in a tourist-centric area. Yet, considering its uniqueness and quality, it could make for an excellent gift idea. Encountering this store was a quirky, memorable experience, emblematic of New York's unexpected surprises. Definitely worth a visit for anyone looking to experience a slice of Portugal in the city or searching for a unique, high-quality yet...
Read moreWIthin an one mile radium in the heart of Times Square, there's a world of M&M, a world of donuts, so why not a world of preserved fish, too. More specifically, Portuguese sardines. As to how well this acquired taste delicacy might fare in a tourist area is still a question, needless to say, there are capitals to play around with in order to have the courage to open at a prime real estate. Instead of a whimsical world of cocoa sweetness, in this circus-themed shop, even staff uniforms resemble clowns/elves, which make shopping not only a fun, but entertaining experience. The specialty tins are all 'sardine packed' with a variety of interesting sauces and oils and not just the supermarket versions. It is also an educational lesson here as each tin is stamped with a year, which you will then learn a significant event that happened. What a fun marketing strategy! The tin cans are beautiful crafted and designed as well, which also serve as well collectibles and souvenirs. This shop is heaven for sardine aficionado for sure, but also for people who appreciate the arts and...
Read moreSeafood is an essential part of Portuguese culture and The Fantastic World of the Portuguese Sardines truly shows the love and connection the Portuguese have with the sea.The Fantastic World of the Portuguese Sardines is not just a testament to a national culinary staple; it's a celebration of a deep-rooted maritime heritage that has long defined Portugal's identity. Sardines, the silvery fish that populate the Atlantic waters off the Iberian coast, are more than just seafood in Portugal; they are a symbol of a way of life that intertwines tradition, community, and sustainability. This world is an immersive experience, capturing the sensory richness of the sea and showcasing the integral role that sardines play in the cultural and economic tapestry of Portugal. Through this celebration, the reverence for the sea's bounty and the recognition of the need to protect and cherish ocean resources for future generations is also foregrounded, emphasizing the sustainability of this...
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