It’s not every day that you get to try something really new. But today, that’s just what I did…in addition to that, I am seriously full.
Galo Inc. Portuguese Churrasqueira restaurant just opened on Red River Road, near the intersection with Hill Street. For lunch today, moseyed on down there to see what they had. The first thing I tried was Polvo, or octopus. It wasn’t breaded “I can eat this and still pretend it is chicken” Octopus. No, instead it was pieces of octopus stewed in a flavourful vegetable sauce. I have to say, I am not usually a fan of the cephalopod, but I’ve never had it like this- cooked perfectly with not the typical overcooked stuff that gives octopus a bad name. But this stuff was quite good, especially with a piece of cornbread!
Next, I tried Portuguese milk custard- It was like a crème caramel or flan- Delectable!
For my actual meal, I ordered the sandwich with sliced pork. It was a seriously huge sandwich, but quite honestly, I really didn’t have that hard of a time finishing the whole thing. The meat was tender and delicately spiced and in a very light sauce. The juices soaked into the bread, but not enough to make big mess, just enough to make every bite flavourful.
I wanted to try the sides as well, I had some rice and the Parisian potatoes. Wow- those were some good spuds- Tiny potatoes with just the faintest hint of sauce. Oh boy- I could have definitely had more of those.
I tried a lightly carbonated Portuguese beverage called Sumol pineapple. It was a bit sweet for my taste, though it did compliment the food well, as I was told it would.
One thing that I wanted to try, but didn't was the chicken. Beautiful half or whole rotisserie chickens- Something I was told that all churrasqueira's have.
Owner, Clara Sousa says that the foods she cooks in her restaurant are the things that she used to have as a child. This is authentic Portuguese.
If you have seen a sign for, or been into Galo Inc, you may notice a certain motif throughout- the rooster. More specifically the Portuguese lucky rooster which is a symbol of happiness and good luck.
Clara was only too happy to explain what was in each dish and tell us more about the restaurant. So, if you are unfamiliar with Portuguese cuisine, rest assured that you will be able to learn enough right there at the counter to know what you should order. I have heard nothing but good things from friends and co workers who have gone in… yet, they all ordered something they have never tried before and ended up loving what they had! When you go in, you may be able to sample some of the dishes before you buy, as well.
Galo Inc. is takeout only- But it is perfect to run out (or walk to) for lunch- or to swing by on the way home from work. You’ll be in and out in a flash! They don’t have every menu item every day- It is always new. You just have to go and see what they have! I didn’t know what I would end up having when I went in, but there were enough choices that I was able to find a few things that I really enjoyed. I can’t wait to see what they have next time!
You can check them out on Facebook or just stop in at 570 Red River Road
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Kelly Allard