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Leitao Showcases the Portuguese Spirit in the West Village
December 16, 2024, 8:17.12 pm ET

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Photos: Heather Willensky

Tucked away on Hudson Street in the heart of the West Village, Leitao invites New Yorkers to savor the warmth and flavor of Portugal. Helmed by Chef and Owner Nuno Sousa, this cozy spot draws inspiration from the lively culinary culture of Porto, serving soulful Portuguese dishes with a home-cooked touch—ideal for sharing among family and friends.

Chef Sousa pays tribute to his roots in Northern Portugal, thoughtfully blending locally sourced ingredients with time-honored recipes. The result is a menu brimming with both comforting classics and bold showstoppers.

Among the standout dishes, the Chicken Piri Piri—a Shenandoah Valley organic half-chicken roasted to perfection and paired with housemade Portuguese piri piri sauce. The Camarao, wild Ecuadorian shrimp sautéed in bourbon, garlic, and chili, comes with Portuguese bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop. Pork lovers will swoon for the Porco Preto, Iberico pork ribs slow-cooked with Alvarinho wine, capers, and a house-made Calabrian chili-garlic sauce. For a sweet finish, there’s the irresistible Pasteis de Nata, the iconic Portuguese custard tart, dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

Leitao’s dining experience extends beyond the plate with a carefully curated selection of Portuguese wines from the Douro, Vinho Verde, and Alentejo regions. The bar menu shines with Portuguese-inspired cocktails, like a refreshing Port Tonic, a bright Passion Fruit Margarita, and the almond-infused Amarguinha.

For those craving an unforgettable feast, Leitao offers its signature Suckling Pig Dinner, a celebratory centerpiece that feeds 4-6 guests and comes with an array of sides. Adding to the restaurant’s intimate charm, special Fado Nights immerse diners in Portugal’s beloved musical tradition. Held in the hidden downstairs cellar, these evenings feature live Fado performances alongside a four-course Portuguese feast paired with Portuguese wines.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply searching for a warm, transportive meal, Leitao is a West Village gem where every guest is treated like family—and every bite feels like home.
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