Portugal Express

- 460 S Broad St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202

For New Jersey diners craving the authentic, hearty flavors of the Iberian coast, **Portugal Express** in Elizabeth, NJ, stands out as a premier destination. Combining the warm, inviting atmosphere of a classic Portuguese bar with a truly exceptional seafood restaurant, this establishment, located in the heart of Union County, offers a rich and flavorful dining experience that goes far beyond the average seafood fare.

Portugal Express is celebrated by locals for its commitment to serving **local specialty** Portuguese dishes, from iconic appetizers to robust entrees featuring both land and sea. This isn't just a place for dinner; the restaurant is a destination popular for **Lunch**, **Dinner**, and even **Brunch**, accommodating everything from a quick, delicious bite to a leisurely, multi-course meal shared among friends or family. The overall atmosphere is described as **Casual, Cozy, and Trendy**, making it suitable for a diverse crowd, including **Family-friendly** groups and **Tourists** looking for an authentic taste of Portuguese culture in New Jersey.

The menu is a testament to Portuguese culinary tradition, specializing in the preparation of fish and seafood. Diners can expect to find classic dishes like the highly versatile **Codfish (Bacalhau)** prepared in multiple ways—Grilled, Steamed, Fried, or the famous **Bras Style**—alongside fresh shellfish and other ocean catches. However, what truly sets Portugal Express apart is its dual appeal; while the seafood is star, the restaurant also serves satisfying comfort food from the Portuguese and American traditions, making it an excellent choice for any craving.

Reviews consistently praise the **Generous portions** and **moderate prices**, ensuring great value for the quality of the food. While the dining experience is laid-back and never rushed, the restaurant is also noted for its **Fast service**, a balance that speaks to professional and attentive staff. Patrons highlight the excellent small plates, such as the flavorful **small shrimp** and **codfish appetizers**, emphasizing the delicious seasoning and flavor that permeates every dish served.

Beyond the food, the experience is enhanced by an impressive beverage program, featuring a **Great beer selection**, **Great cocktails**, and a **Great wine list**, which are perfect for pairing with the robust flavors of the Portuguese cuisine or enjoying during the available **Happy hour drinks** and **Happy hour food** specials. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, the availability of **Great coffee** and a **Great tea selection** is also noted as a highlight.

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Portugal Express is conveniently situated at **460 S Broad St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202, USA**, making it easily accessible for residents across Union County and beyond. The location benefits from readily available **Free street parking**, which removes a common stress point for diners in the area.

A key focus for this restaurant is ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests, as evidenced by its strong commitment to accessibility:

• **Wheelchair Accessibility:** The restaurant is fully equipped with a **Wheelchair accessible entrance**, **Wheelchair accessible restroom**, and **Wheelchair accessible seating**, ensuring a seamless visit for patrons with mobility needs.
• **Parking:** Guests can utilize the **Free street parking** surrounding the location.
• **Payments:** In line with modern convenience, Portugal Express accepts multiple payment methods, including **Credit cards**, **Debit cards**, and **NFC mobile payments**.
• **Amenities:** Patrons can enjoy the atmosphere provided by the **Bar onsite** and make use of the free **Wi-Fi** and clean **Restroom** facilities.

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Portugal Express provides comprehensive dining and catering services to suit every occasion and preference:

• **Dine-in:** Enjoy the cozy, casual atmosphere with full **Table service** for lunch, dinner, or brunch.
• **Takeout:** Convenient options are available for those who prefer to enjoy their Portuguese comfort food at home.
• **Delivery:** The restaurant offers a delivery service, bringing the authentic flavors of Portugal right to your New Jersey doorstep.
• **Dining Times:** Services cover **Brunch, Lunch, Dinner,** and **Dessert**. They even offer **Late-night food** options.
• **Reservations:** **Lunch reservations recommended** and **Dinner reservations recommended** as the restaurant **Accepts reservations**, a wise choice given its popularity among **Groups** and for **Solo dining**.
• **Catering:** The kitchen can prepare large orders to cater for events and special occasions.
• **Bar Service:** A fully stocked **Bar onsite** serves a wide range of **Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor,** and **Wine**, including **Happy hour drinks**.
• **Family Accommodations:** The restaurant is **Good for kids**, offering **High chairs** for younger guests and a dedicated **Kids' menu**.

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The success of Portugal Express is built on several key features that appeal directly to the discerning New Jersey palate:

• **Authentic Portuguese Seafood Focus:** The menu emphasizes traditional preparations of Codfish (Bacalhau), Grilled Whole Striped Bass, Grilled Red Snapper, and the impressive **Lobster and Seafood in Yellow Rice (Paelha)**, often served for two.
• **Versatile Menu Options:** Beyond seafood, the restaurant offers robust **Comfort food** options, including Grilled Portuguese Sausage, ribs, and Portuguese sandwiches, ensuring there is something for everyone.
• **Exceptional Beverage Program:** Known for having a **Great wine list**, **Great beer selection**, and imaginative **Cocktails**, providing perfect pairings for any meal.
• **Appetizer Selection:** The restaurant excels in small plates, with a wide array of options perfect for sharing, such as **Garlic Shrimp**, **Seasoned Clams in garlic and cilantro (Ameijoas a Bolhão Pato)**, and savory **Codfish Cakes (Bolinhos de Bacalhau)**.
• **Healthy and Comfort Options:** The menu successfully balances hearty **Comfort food** and quick bites with **Healthy options** like fresh grilled fish and vibrant salads, including the traditional **Octopus Salad with onion and parsley**.
• **Atmosphere and Vibe:** The environment is described as **Casual, Cozy, and Trendy**, with a lively energy often associated with the **Sports** viewing atmosphere, making it a great place to gather.
• **Service Excellence:** Noted for **Fast service** without sacrificing quality, ensuring that even during busy times, the dining experience remains pleasant and efficient.

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For first-time visitors or seasoned patrons of Portuguese cuisine, the following dishes and categories at Portugal Express are essential choices that represent the best of the restaurant:

• **Bacalhau (Codfish) Dishes:** A must-try is the **Codfish Grilled Steamed Fried or Bras Style**. The **Codfish Bras Style (Bacalhau à Brás)**—a classic Portuguese dish of shredded cod, onions, matchstick-sized fried potatoes, and scrambled eggs—is a highly recommended local specialty that is both comforting and authentic.
• **Garlic Shrimp (Camarão à Guilho):** Often highlighted in reviews, both the appetizer portion and the main course of **Grilled Jumbo Shrimp sautéed in garlic sauce** are excellent representations of the flavorful, simple Portuguese seafood style.
• **Shellfish Appetizers:** Start your meal with the renowned **Seasoned Clams in garlic and cilantro (Ameijoas a Bolhão Pato)** or the traditional **Codfish Cakes** (Bolinhos de Bacalhau). These small plates are perfectly seasoned and capture the authentic flavors of Portugal.
• **Seafood Stews and Rice:** For a more communal or substantial meal, the **Seafood and Rice Stew (Arroz de Marisco)** or the impressive **Lobster and Seafood in Yellow Rice (Paelha)** offers a complete, intensely flavorful experience, often a favorite for sharing.
• **The Grilled Fish:** Any of the fresh, simply prepared grilled fish options, such as the **Grilled Whole Striped Bass** or **Grilled Salmon Fillet**, are great healthy options that highlight the freshness of the product.
• **Dessert and Coffee:** Be sure to save room, as the **Great dessert** and **Great coffee** are noted highlights, offering a perfect, authentic end to a fantastic Portuguese meal.

Portugal Express

460 S Broad St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202, USA