When a friend suggested meeting at a Portuguese market place for lunch, I jumped at the invitation. Being of Portuguese decent myself, my childhood foray into the culture was a trip to the beautiful capital of Portugal, Lisbon, a treasured family trip. And my food memory from my Portuguese grandmother is sweet bread, kale soup and Malasadas (fried donuts covered in sugar and cinnamon).

Upon entering this hugely spacious and renovated textile mill, it immediately transported me back to Portugal. And I fell in LOVE!!! ! All of my senses were sent tingling; there were colorful tiles, ceramic dishes and bowls painted in beautiful floral designs, tins of tuna, sardines and cod, wheels of various cheeses, a huge temperature controlled windowed room, The O FIEL AMIGO, and piled upon tables was salted cod, which is a Portuguese staple.

Scattered throughout this amazing space are colorful ceramic roosters, a Portuguese symbol for faith, good luck, and justice. My grandmother always had one in her kitchen.

The Benevides family’s desire to bring delicious food from the “old country” to the states began decades ago, culminating with opening this marketplace in 2013.

The old world charm is palpable. I could go on and on, it is indeed a must visit in person.

My shopping cart was full: aromatic soaps wrapped in colorful floral fabric, huge chocolate bars with various fillings, tuna pate, fig and walnut jam, tins of tuna, cod and sardines. (Yes, sardines were a childhood staple of mine.)

An impressive selection of delectable and authentic Portuguese hot and cold prepared food (that my newly awakened taste buds immediately recognized) served as lunch. A next visit for lunch will be planned soon.

After lunch over to the PONTO DE ENCONTRO espresso bar for sweet delicate desserts (my friend and I shared a slice of a light almond cake with powdered sugar)…Heaven!

On my way out, I introduced myself to co-owner/daughter Jennifer Benevides-Costa. Her brother Michael Benevides is also a co-owner. I was gushing a bit about my first but definitely not my last visit. She was gracious and outgoing.

All told I spent 3 1/2 hours feeling as if I was on vacation. My desire to return to Portugal has been heightened and restored. Till then, Portugalia marketplace is worthy of many visits. Although my quest for Malasadas did not come to fruition ( they were not available), I will continue my quest on my next visit…Very soon.

Portugalia Marketplace is at 489 Bedford St. in Fall River, MA 02720. Their phone number is 508–617–9820 and their hours are: Monday through Saturday 8 AM to 6 PM and Sundays 9 AM to 2 PM.

More About Karen Gomes

I have 40 years of makeup and skincare experience; my focus has always been on guiding women towards achieving healthy, glowing, and polished looks. From humble beginnings in Rhode Island to the glitz of LA, I am currently a makeup artist on hiatus.

For more from Karen, follow her on Instagram @SilverGypsyChick.

Photo Credits: All Images Are Courtesy Of Karen.