petiscaria

Petiscaria is a type of casual dining or drinking establishment common in Portuguese-speaking countries, focused on serving petiscos, small savory dishes similar to tapas. The term derives from petisco, a small snack or bite, and denotes a venue where snacks accompany drinks.

In Portugal and Brazil, petiscarias function as informal venues where customers order drinks and share small plates. They may be standalone bars or part of a tavern or restaurant. The atmosphere tends to be rustic and convivial, with counter service and often communal seating.

Menu items vary by region, but common features include seafood and pork snacks, cheeses, olives, and fried bites. In Portugal, typical offerings include dishes such as pataniscas de bacalhau, chouriço assado, queijo frito, conservas, and a variedade de petiscos. In Brazil, common items include coxinha, pasteis, bolinhos de queijo, empadinhas, and queijo coalho. The emphasis is on quick, shareable dishes that pair well with beer, vinho verde, or cachaça.

Petiscarias emphasize casual, sociable dining over formal meals. Prices are usually affordable, and service is quick, enabling patrons to eat while socializing or continuing to drink. The concept is culturally related to tapas bars or tavernas, and varies with local cuisine and traditions.