Petiscos are a large and integral part of Portuguese gastronomy and traditions, just as tapas are for Spain with one main difference, Tapas have become internationally known and are served worldwide, often in trendy tapas bars that specialise in Tapas and Spanish wines. Petiscos are still found mainly in Portugal and most people abroad are unfamiliar with the Portuguese culture so have never heard of them.
A new concept dovetailing sophisticated Goan-Portuguese cuisine with wines from small, family-run vineyards in the Douro Valley, Lisboa, Dao, Alentejo and other, to-date lesser known regions of Portugal, has come to Queens Road , Buckhurst Hill.
A partnership between the Todiwalas and Steven and Michelle Schaffer of Portuguese Vinhos, the leading importer of Portuguese wines into Britain, ‘Mr Todiwala’s Petiscos’ will confine its menu to tasting platters, or Petiscos, featuring seasonal British produce and ingredients, including sustainable seafood. Bombay-born Cyrus Todiwala, a regular on BBC’s Saturday Kitchen, will inject his experience and on-going connections with Goa to offer a unique take on an enduring Portuguese gastronomic tradition.
Cyrus Todiwala says “Steve and I go back a long way, and his and Michelle’s knowledge of Portuguese wines is second to none. I love their wines, and they go perfectly with the Goan-inspired Petiscos we will be serving to our customers. Don’t forget that Portugal was the very first country to introduce European wines to Asia and the Americas, and spices as well.’
Steven Redman-Schaffer said, ‘Michelle and I share the same vision as Cyrus and Pervin and it’s terrific that we’re working together on this exciting venture. We all believe that fine food and wine is the prerogative of everyone and should not cost the earth. It’s great for us to be able to introduce new food and wine pairing concepts like ‘Mr Todiwala’s Petiscos’ which allow people to discover and enjoy world class cuisine with wines in a truly convivial atmosphere of sharing.'