Grilled · Summer Festival Food

Sardinhas Assadas (Grilled Sardines)

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During Lisbon's June festas, the whole city smells of charcoal-grilled sardines — the fish even shows up printed on festival banners and souvenirs.

Whole fresh sardines are salted and grilled over charcoal until the skin blisters, then served simply with boiled potatoes, roasted peppers, and bread — often eaten right off the tray, standing in the street.

Why it's made this way: The tradition ties to Portugal's long fishing history and the June saints' festivals, when sardines are at their fattest and cheapest.