Isaías: an example of quality and honesty

“Salmonetes” at Isaías in Sesimbra. Photo by Filipe Gill

There will be a time when we will miss a genuine honest place to eat good, no-nonsense food.

So here is an example: probably some of the best fish in the World – and this is no overstatement – can be appreciated here in Sesimbra in a simple, unpretentious, but professional food-serving place. No unnecessary smiles, but just the right sense of attention.

The first time I went to Isaías was on a windy night in January 2013.

The last time was last night. And guess what? It hasn’t changed much, apart from the prices. There is the team outside on the grill; the team bringing stuff to the table. And the team in the kitchen making two simple, yet magnificent dishes:

the salad: tomato, lettuce, onions, coriander. Dressed with sea salt, olive oil and a dash of vinegar. The secret: local ingredients from the “hortas” nearby on sandy soil;

and the boiled potatoes: perfectly cooked and with the skin on.

And last but not least, the fish. It was likely caught last night in the cold waters around the Cabo Espichel. Then the rule is to keep it simple: sea salt and heat from a charcoal grill skillfully managed by decades of experience. With the right temperature and time to be served straight away in a simple metallic dish.

This time we had sardines and ‘salmonetes’ (red mullet).

Meaningful, nourishing, and very satisfying food.

Cool house white wine to complete the perfect meal.

A cool and dignified logo on a wooden board. Photo by Filipe Gill