The Massachusetts
Dispatch.
In Massachusetts, Portuguese history is American history. The connection dates back to the 19th-century whaling industry, which brought intrepid sailors from the Azores and Cabo Verde to the shores of New Bedford and Nantucket. Today, that legacy is alive in the vibrant cobblestone streets of New Bedford and the hills of Fall River, where Portuguese is spoken as commonly as English. The state offers a unique 'New England Portuguese' cuisine—think clam boils with chouriço and spicy kale soup (caldo verde). Beyond the South Coast, substantial communities in Cambridge, Somerville, and Hudson keep the traditions of the Continent and the Islands alive with modern flair.
Restaurants Registry
Restaurants in Massachusetts
Casa Portugal
J & J Restaurant
Tia Maria's European Cafe
Azorean Restaurant & Bar
Primavera Cafe & Restaurant
Antonio’s Restaurant
Markets Registry
Markets in Massachusetts
Influencers Registry
Influencers in Massachusetts
Shops Registry
Shops in Massachusetts
Wine & Spirits Registry
Wine & Spirits in Massachusetts
Food Trucks Registry
Food Trucks in Massachusetts
Community Registry
Community in Massachusetts
Events & Festivals Registry
Events & Festivals in Massachusetts
Bakeries Registry
Bakeries in Massachusetts
Flake Bakery
Europa Pastries
Tony's Bakery
Provincetown Portuguese Bakery
Cinderella's bakery
Barcelos Bakery
Common Questions
Why are there so many Portuguese in Massachusetts?
The migration began in the 1800s with the whaling industry. Sailors from the Azores and Cape Verde settled in ports like New Bedford, later followed by waves of immigrants working in textile mills.
What is 'Portuguese Sweet Bread'?
Massa Sovada (Portuguese Sweet Bread) is a staple in MA, especially around Easter. Famous bakeries in Fall River and New Bedford ship distinctively fluffy, sweet loaves nationwide.
Where is the best Portuguese seafood in MA?
New Bedford is the nation's highest-value fishing port. Local restaurants serve incredibly fresh seafood, with scallops and cod often prepared in traditional Azorean styles.
Help us discover
more of Massachusetts.
Know a hidden gem in the neighborhood? Help us document our culture by submitting it to the Massachusetts registry.