We started with a morning walk through mist-like moisture. Not quite rain. Up (despite Google’s continued assurances that the route was “mostly flat”) to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, which I’m leaving to Grubb to enthrall you with.
Estufa Fria. Released from stodgy art…no I shouldn’t say that…there were some beautiful tiles, rugs, tapestries and fine vases, tankards and wine pots. But anyway…we headed towards a tiny oasis within Parque Eduardo VII. The Estufa Fria (translates to “cold greenhouse”) was created nearly a century ago. A lush jungle of ferns, brilliant flora and very few human fauna, except a bride and groom in the midst of a photo shoot. And an ethereal chorus emanating from white, rice paper speakers. A delightful respite from the bustling streets.
Time to head down to the surprisingly unique and fascinating Museu da Marioneta (Grubb will again be your guide for this…unless spooky marionettes are triggers for you, in which case, don’t peek). But here is one innocent photo just in case.
Meal of the day. A few twists and turns from the marionettes and we found ourselves in an alley where tables were spread out, ready and waiting.
I did forgo the cod and instead had the grilled octopus. I was not one bit sorry. Accompanied by roasted small potatoes and broccoli. I added a glass of Vinho Verdi, a Portuguese white wine with a little fizz. Grubb went with the Octopus Entwined with Prawns, a masterpiece on a skewer.
Ice cream of the day? Grubb and I had two different variations of the same base. A creamy custard-like flavor laced with rum. Mine had a few bits of nuts – could have been pistachios. Grubb’s was embedded with delicate swirls of chocolate.
The grilled octopus looks absolutely … my choice of word is “fantastic,” since I love grilled octopus. Some others I know would have finished the sentence with “disgusting.” Moira is not a fan.
I did think twice about posting the octopus picture but it was delicious. Funny how we are okay with seeing things like lamb chops and roasted pig but when it comes to creatures of sea, other than a modest slab of fish, we balk. I mean, I balked too at the sight of the octopus.