Adega Santiago

This small and far-from tourist agenda restaurant was born from a personal trip the owner did to Portugal and Spain. A trip in, as he says, he discovered how these two countries at the same time always suspicious and accomplices, sharing the same passion for food and wine and a relaxed attitude. And I think the restaurant captures this really well!

So, we are talking about a small restaurant off Rebouças Avenue. It has probably around 20 tables, between timber walls and roof, in a nice house. When we step inside, it is noticeable that actually the room is too small for so many people – guests are seated too close to each other and there is too much noise inside. But you breathe some intimacy never the less, and the feeling you are in great restaurant. And then you look at the menu, and any doubt melts away.

Let’s disclose it – I am Portuguese, and crazy for Iberian food. Maybe that was why I felt so good (and excited) when I looked at the menu – but, I doubt you could feel any less (even if you are not Portuguese) when reading it. The menu includes tapas, sandwiches and entrees. It includes “codfish (remember codfish is Portugal’s emblematic sea food) açorda” (a magnificent combination of cod, fried egg and bread flooded in olive oil and herbs), “rich rice” (rice with shellfish, including shrimps and clams), “Portuguese sardines”, “octopus carpaccio”, “oven cooked codfish” and several steaks. It also has a very rich assortment of Iberian wines (especially red) that ensure a perfect match with your entrée or tapas, for a perfect meal. And then you can order desserts – if your belly has not have enough. “Churros with dulce the leche” (Spanish) or “Rabanadas and icecream” (Portuguese) will live up to any expectation, showcasing the perfect combination of dry and warmish desserts with cold and sweet sides – a match that will burst in your mouth!

Adega Santiago is (in my opinion) a great restaurant. One to take your wife on a special and relaxed dinner, one to make both of you enjoy the time and the taste of a great meal, in perfect company. And 9500 kilometres away, it made me feel home!

Where: São Paulo - Brazil

Address: Rua Sampaio Vidal, 1072 – Jardim Paulista

Phone: +55 11 3081 5211

Website: http://adegasantiago.com.br/

Expensive: Watch it! Iberian delicacies are a lot more explosive this side of the Atlantic. Dinner will never be below €50.

Last visit: November 2011