TWO Wirral restaurants are getting together later this week for a special evening of discovery taking in the cuisine of one of Portugal’s most famous island regions.

Known as ‘The Hawaii of Europe’ and the ‘Islands of Colours’, The Azores archipelago lies half way between continental Portugal and the United States in the Atlantic Ocean offering dramatic volcanic landscapes, fishing villages and lush pastures.

Claimed by Portuguese explorers in 1432, this autonomous region is made up of nine islands and is well known for its superb seafood, incredible dairy produce and its astonishing wines.

On Wednesday (November 29), the Seafood Shack will bring some of its finest frutos marisco to be prepared and cooked at Iberian eatery BoBo on Banks Road, for a specially co-devised menu.

Guy Lawrenson, owner of Seafood Shack, said: "BoBo is an excellent addition to the area’s restaurant offer and they have a strong commitment to sourcing the best and most authentic ingredients.

"While many dishes are similar to Portugal's, Azorean cuisine has its own distinct character and offers a different take on seafood.

"We hope it tells a story of this rich culinary region.

"I've really enjoyed working with the BoBo team to create this night with a difference and am already looking forward to the next time."

Steven Burgess of BoBo, said: "During the months we’ve been in West Kirby we have struck up a friendship with the Seafood Shack from whom we buy all our fish and seafood.

"It seemed like the natural next step to come together in curating a menu of our take on wonderful Azorean plates, some of which will be cooked over charcoal in our authentic style.

"It’s great to be working with another local high street business to showcase our respective offers on what promises to be a fun evening of delicious food and discovery.”

BoBo and The Seafood Shack Tours The Azores menu comprises six dishes:

  • Peixinhos da Horta Crispy whitebait & green beans | seaweed salt | fresh lemon. This dish was introduced to Japan by Portuguese sailors Antonio da Mota, Francisco Zeimoto and Antonio Peixoto in the 16th century, where it was eventually developed into tempura.
  • Atum com Cebolada Marinated tuna | sweet onions.
  • Camarao de Vinha d'Alhos Shell on prawns | garlic | Vinho Verde wine | parsley.
  • Carne de Porco a Alentejana Pork belly braised in Sagres | lemon & white wine clams & soft cauliflower puree.
  • This is their take on the famous Portuguese combination of pork & clams elevated with the most famous lager in the region.
  • Abrotea e Arroz de Tomate Charcoal hake | braised mussel & tomato Bomba rice.
  • Pastel de Nata Traditional Pastel de Nata | Sherry soaked raisins & cinnamon crumble.

This BoBo collaboration will be the first of a series of special evenings with a variety of local suppliers and restaurants.

To book your place for The Azores event, which starts at 7pm, call in to the yellow cornered building at 34 Banks Road or call 0151 640 0375.