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It’s summertime in Portugal. The sky above is clear and cloudless, and even after stepping out of the water, the sun is already warming your skin. You glance down and notice the beginnings of a tan. Then your stomach reminds you it’s time to eat. It’s not quite dinner yet, but you’re definitely hungry. You reach for your phone, scan nearby options, pick a café or restaurant, and set off.
As you arrive, a chalkboard on the pavement catches your eye. Written in English, it proudly announces: “The Best Portuguese Tapas!” Something feels slightly off. Then it clicks — there’s no such thing as Portuguese tapas. What Portugal has instead are petiscos.
That said, if you want to call them tapas, go right ahead. The Portuguese won’t mind. The important thing is what arrives at the table: small plates meant to be shared, enjoyed slowly, and accompanied by good company, which is very much the Portuguese way.
What are Portuguese Petiscos?
In simple terms, petiscos are small dishes or snacks — often compared to tapas — that are traditionally enjoyed before a main meal. They are perfect for “cheating hunger”, as the Portuguese like to say, whether you’re waiting for lunch or settling in for dinner.
Portuguese cuisine is rich and varied, shaped by diverse influences and a strong focus on fresh ingredients and flavourful sauces. As a result, there is a wide range of petiscos to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. According to TasteAtlas, a globally recognised food guide, Portuguese cuisine ranks as the , with petiscos playing an important role in that recognition.
