In the heart of Portugal, nestled along the picturesque coastline of Ericeira, lies a culinary gem that promises an experience like no other – César Marisqueira. This quaint establishment, a mere 45-minute drive from Lisbon, has been creating ripples in the gastronomic world, not just for its traditional Portuguese seafood offerings, but for a delicacy that is as exotic as it is treasured – the Gooseneck Barnacles, or as the locals call it, Percebes.
The Allure of Percebes
Gooseneck barnacles are not your everyday seafood. These crustaceans, clinging tenaciously to the hard surfaces of rocks and ocean flotsam, are one of the world’s most expensive kinds of seafood. In the markets of Portugal and Spain, Percebes can fetch prices of over $100 per pound. But what makes them so special?
The answer lies not just in their unique taste but also in the perilous journey to harvest them. Harvesting Gooseneck barnacles is fraught with grave risks, from treacherous waves to slippery rocks, and even the looming possibility of death. It’s a dangerous job, but for the love of this delicacy, there are those brave souls willing to risk it all. This inherent danger, combined with their delectable taste, makes Percebes a sought-after luxury, not the cheapest seafood you’ll find in Portugal, but arguably one of the best.
César Marisqueira: A Culinary Oasis
Our adventure began with a day trip from Lisbon, in search of a place that would serve this exciting delicacy. Our quest led us to Ericeira, a beautiful surfing town that exudes a charm of its own. As we navigated its streets, the anticipation grew, culminating in our arrival at César Marisqueira.
With a reservation secured for noon, we were well aware of the restaurant’s popularity. Word on the street is that if you’re looking for the freshest Gooseneck barnacles, César Marisqueira is the place to be. And as we soon discovered, the rumors were true.
A Feast for the Senses
As we deep-dived into the world of barnacles, our taste buds were treated to a symphony of flavors. The freshness of the seafood, combined with the traditional Portuguese cooking techniques, made for an unforgettable experience.
But it wasn’t just about the food. The camaraderie, the shared excitement of trying something new, and the sheer joy of discovery made the meal even more special. As we dined, we were not just patrons; we were adventurers, explorers of the culinary world, always on the hunt for the next big thing.
César Marisqueira is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. From the perilous journey of the Gooseneck barnacles to the plate to the warm hospitality and the delectable dishes, it promises a culinary adventure like no other.
For those looking to satiate their wanderlust and their palate, a trip to Ericeira and a meal at César Marisqueira is a must. Join us on this gastronomic journey.
*Disclosure: Hey there! Just a heads-up: some links on this page are affiliate links for products and services I genuinely love and recommend. If you decide to make a purchase or subscribe through them, I’ll earn a small commission for my coffee fund ☕. Don’t worry, I’ll be using that energy to create even more awesome content for you. Thank’s a million for your support! – Melissa
