David Leite is the publisher of the website Leite's Culinaria, which has won two James Beard awards. He is the author of Notes on a Banana: A Memoir as well as The New Portuguese Table: Exciting Flavors from Europe's Western Coast, which won the 2010 IACP First Book/Julia Child Award. His writing has appeared in publications such as The New York Times, Martha Stewart Living, Saveur, Bon Appetit, Gourmet, Food & Wine, Pastry Art & Design, Food Arts, the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Sun-Times, The Washington Post and the Charlotte Observer.
David's awards include a 2008 James Beard Award for Newspaper Feature Writing Without Recipes, a 2006 Bert Green Award for Food Journalism, and the Association of Food Journalists awards in 2006 and 2007.
This itinerary includes:
Hotel Accommodations:
6 nights at the 4* BessaHotel Liberdade in Lisbon
Cooking Classes with Renowned Chefs - Discover the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine through hands-on cooking classes led by acclaimed local chefs. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, enjoy an immersive culinary experience in intimate settings—perfect for food lovers seeking authenticity and gourmet inspiration.
Market Experience - Embark on a culinary journey that begins at the local market, where you'll shop for fresh, seasonal ingredients alongside a knowledgeable chef. Then head into the kitchen to prepare traditional Portuguese dishes—from seafood cataplana to regional pastries—while learning about local flavors and techniques. It’s an immersive and delicious way to connect with Portuguese culture.
Dinner at a Portuguese Home - Enjoy an intimate and authentic evening in Lisbon with a home-cooked dinner hosted by a local. Step into a welcoming Portuguese home and share stories, flavors, and traditions over a delicious multi-course meal featuring regional specialties, local wine, and genuine hospitality. It’s a chance to experience Lisbon as a guest, not just a visitor.
Pastel de Nata Masterclass at a Real Bakery - Step behind the scenes of a working Lisbon bakery and discover the secrets of Portugal’s beloved custard tart during this hands-on Pastel de Nata masterclass. Guided by a local pastry chef, you'll learn to prepare the delicate flaky pastry and rich egg custard from scratch—just like the originals. While your creations bake, enjoy stories of the pastry’s origins and sweet tastings fresh from the oven. Perfect for food lovers and curious travelers alike.
Access to Pastéis de Belém - Enjoy exclusive access to Pastéis de Belém, where you’ll uncover the secrets of Portugal’s iconic custard tart with a private behind-the-scenes visit and warm pastries straight from the oven.
Wine Tasting and Olive Oil Tasting - Savor a day in Alentejo with a private wine tasting, a seasonal farm-to-table lunch, and an artisanal olive oil tasting—set amid the region’s rolling vineyards and golden plains.
Street-Food Cooking Class - Dive into Lisbon’s vibrant flavors with a hands-on street food cooking class—master local favorites like bifanas and chouriço rolls in a lively, authentic setting.
Private Tours - Belém & Alentejo
Dinners at Lisbon’s Legendary Dining Spots - Indulge in the soul of Lisbon with unforgettable dinners at the city’s legendary dining spots—where storied history meets contemporary flair. Every evening promises a delicious dive into Lisbon’s culinary heritage and vibrant ambiance.
Services of an English speaking professional guide.