Maria's Portuguese Table

The season ends with exploring the city of Horta and tasting locally produced specialties. Maria heads to a volcano off the coast of Capelinhos, Faial, whose devastating eruption in 1958 resulted in a new wave of immigration to the U.S. Maria also wrangles bees, and gets to cook some unique farm-to-table inspired dishes.

Maria explores Fajã da Caldeira Santo Cristo, which the New York Times listed as one of the most beautiful places in the world. While there, she tastes and learns to cook the unique clams that can only be found on that shoreline. Maria then ferries to Pico Island to learn more about the whaling industry, and meets with winemakers to taste rare wines that were desired by kings and czars.

From a distance, São Jorge is an island of cliffs and fajãs, but Maria discovers so much more. She sees first-hand how their world-famous cheese is made, visits a coffee plantation, and cooks Holy Ghost soup and local specialty, Especies. Maria also meets transplant, Peeter Adriaans, who made a home on São Jorge after what can only be described as a shipwreck.

Maria’s journey continues to Terceira Island, known by many U.S. veterans for its World War II air base. Maria learns that Terceira isn’t just bloodless bullfights and parties, it’s also home to stunning scenery, talented artists, and amazing food. Maria goes inside a volcano, cooks local specialties, and takes a turn at throwing some pottery with a third-generation potter.

Maria's journey circles back to her home community, New Bedford, Massachusetts. There, she cooks fresh scallops, visits the New Bedford Whaling Museum, meets with Jessica Arruda, owner of Tia Maria’s European Café, and attends the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament.

Columbia Street is the heart of Fall River’s Portuguese community. Maria explores the cafés and businesses there, including the Portuguese sausage company, Michael's Provision, and the oldest Portuguese restaurant in the state, Sagres Restaurant. Later on, Maria meets up with the comedy troupe “The Portuguese Kids.”

Maria travels to Boston, Massachusetts. There, she meets with Dennis Alves, director of artistic planning for the world-famous Boston Pops. A proud Portuguese American, Dennis invites Maria to cook a delicious chicken soup known as canja in his kitchen. During her time in Boston, Maria also receives a private music lesson on stage at Symphony Hall, and meets with businessman Tony Frias.

Maria explores Provincetown, the landing place for many Azorean immigrants in the last century. Provincetown has been home to a vibrant Portuguese community that centered around the fishing industry. Maria explores the area, cooks a traditional fish dish at The Mayflower Restaurant, takes a painting lesson from a Portuguese American artist, and joins in the weekend Portuguese Festival celebration.