To-die-for BBQ Chicken
If you think you like Montreal “barbequed” chicken, then you’ve never had Portuguese barbequed chicken. Start with the BBQ in that sentence. In the Montreal variety, chickens are impaled on a spit and roll around on a carnival ride to cook through. The Portuguese method bbq’s the marinated chicken on a smokin’ charcoal grill where it winds up with a crispily seasoned crust and smokey flavored meat. You can get it spicier on request (I watched one slathered in chiles and cringed – but have it your way).
You’ve probably heard of the famous Romados on Rachel est with its line-ups (secret: you can order ahead and avoid the wait). However, there is more than one way to skin a chicken. The rest of the Portuguese community know about other flavourful spots to score this addictive meal. I was introduced to Portugalia by the “Montreal piano chicken pusher” across the street. He and his Dad restore and sell beautiful pianos at Montreal Piano (61 Rachel ouest).
You cannot expect to go in and just walk up and buy a take-out chicken ($11). Here it’s so busy, it’s like the “soup nazi” of BBQ chicken . You have to call and place an order 1 1/2 hours ahead during the week. On the weekends though, it’s best to order the day before or at the very least 3 or 4 hours ahead. There are no line-ups here because if you walk in without having ordered first, you’ll be given a card and told to call.
It is possible to dine in the attached restaurant and you will get your chicken in normal restaurant time.
Portugalia Location: 34 Rachel ouest
Corner: Clark
Phone: 514-282-1519
www.rotisserieportugalia.ca