5 Must-Try Foods on the South Coast of Massachusetts

The South Coast of Massachusetts is not just known for its stunning views and rich history; it also boasts an incredible food scene that’s influenced by Portuguese heritage, fresh seafood, and local ingredients. Whether you're a resident or planning a visit, there are a few dishes you absolutely must try. As a local real estate agent, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring all that this area has to offer – and today, I’m sharing my top five food recommendations that you should not miss out on when visiting the South Coast.

1. Stuffed Quahog

If you’re wondering, "What in the world is a Quahog?" – let me explain. A Quahog is a larger type of clam found in the waters around New England, and one of the most popular dishes featuring Quahogs is the stuffed version. The Quahog is carefully hollowed out, and the meat is mixed with breadcrumbs, spices, onions, and peppers, then baked or deep-fried. While some people opt for a butter topping, I personally love squeezing a bit of lemon on top for an extra kick. Trust me – if you’re a fan of seafood, a stuffed Quahog is a must-try on the South Coast.

2. Clam Chowder

No visit to the South Coast would be complete without tasting the iconic clam chowder. Whether you prefer it creamy or more brothy, this dish is a New England staple. Clam chowder is filled with tender clams, potatoes, carrots, onions, and a hearty dose of cream (though some recipes use milk for a lighter version). It's the perfect comfort food, and you’ll find variations of it in almost every restaurant around here. If you're visiting, make sure to try it – it's a classic!

3. Linguicia

The South Coast has a strong Portuguese influence, and one of the most popular foods here is linguicia! – essentially it’s a spiced Portuguese sausage.  It’s available in so many different forms too!   You can get them whole, diced, or ground. People love to cook it in various ways: roasted on the grill, added to soups, or even as a topping on pizza. A favorite local dish is linguicia pizza, which combines the smoky flavor of the sausage with a cheesy, savory crust. Even if you’re not usually a sausage fan, you should definitely give linguicia a try while you’re here – it’s a South Coast tradition!

4. Kale Soup

Another Portuguese favorite that you’ll find on the South Coast is kale soup, or "Caldo Verde." This comforting soup is made with kale, potatoes, onions, carrots, and beans. It’s often paired with linguicia, which adds a nice depth of flavor to the broth. Some versions are made with a creamy broth, while others are lighter and more broth-based. It's a healthy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a chilly New England day. Whether you're visiting a Portuguese restaurant or cooking at home, kale soup is a food you need to try.

5. Pastel de Nata

If you have a sweet tooth, you must try the Pastel de Nata, a Portuguese custard tart. These little pastries have a crispy, flaky crust and are filled with a rich, creamy custard. The top is lightly caramelized, giving it a beautiful texture and sweetness. They're so popular around here that New Bedford recently hosted a "Pastel de Nata Throwdown," where local bakeries competed to see who made the best tart. My personal favorites are from Goulart Square and Sunrise Bakery – you won’t be disappointed!

Bonus: Malasadas

I just couldn’t resist adding one more – the famous malasada! These Portuguese doughnuts are deep-fried to perfection and coated in cinnamon sugar. They’re a local favorite, especially at the annual Portuguese Feast in New Bedford, which takes place every August. They’re best when they’re fresh, and they’re a real treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or as a sweet snack after a meal.

Why the South Coast is a Food Lover’s Paradise

The South Coast’s unique combination of Portuguese cuisine and fresh, local seafood makes it a food lover’s dream. From stuffed Quahogs to creamy clam chowder, linguisa, kale soup, and decadent Pastel de Nata, this area offers a variety of delicious dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage.

If you’re planning to visit, or if you’re thinking about relocating to the area, I would be happy to help you find the best places to eat and explore. Feel free to reach out with any questions or recommendations, and don't forget to check out my YouTube video for more on these delicious foods. You can watch it here.

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 📍 Real Estate Broker in Massachusetts & Rhode Island
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