Culinary Art in Bahia

In Bahia, there are three main culinary influences, Portuguese, African and Indigenous. Yes, there are Asian establishments. Sushi is very popular, however in contrast, the variety of cuisine from various Asian countries is limited. To be honest folks, that is not why you travel thousands of miles for many hours. You come to taste and sample Bahia cuisine. The culinary diversity here is more about flavor, style and presentation. It ranges from home style comfort to stylish chic. Bahians expect their food to taste a certain way, it is style, presentation and price that differentiates establishments.

Setting the Scene

The neighborhood San Antonio has some of the most colorful and popular spots in the City of Salvador. Colors pop from all directions inside and outside the eating establishments. The vibrancy greets you at the door! These colors amplify the sense of Brazilian joy and lightheartedness especially on Friday nights. To go out, to be dressed, to look fabulous is a regular thing...and it's expected after a hard week of grinding it out, to let your hair down, have drink with friends, lovers and to toast the setting sun.

The Art History Professor Gives a Lesson in Creativity

Visiting from Portugal, Celso Fonseca was born in Bahia, an accomplished artist and professor of art history. His mediums are usually canvass, oils and acrylics, he sometimes includes himself in poses his pieces. Celso has taken to his smart phone to transform his daily experiences into his works of art. We share the same passions for travel, tasty food and excellent drinks. Celso shared how he sets up shots, to make extraordinary photos. For example, the photo on his phone below, he froze the ice in the glass on a slant to create the multilayer effect with the backdrop of the sun.

I enjoy creative collaboration, and new learning techniques. I documented Celso as he created. His eye and splashes of color perfectly captured the spirit of Brazilian Friday celebrations and vibrantly enhanced our surroundings.

The Style of Celso

Celso has the vibe I am Brazilian living in Portugal. The dear lord, these colors really pop! You can feel the warmth of the sun and coolness of the refreshing cocktail drink. Folks, these are classic destination pictures. Yeah, book my flight Howard I will be there shortly.

The Style of Howard

Being a native Philadelphian, I love food. Food is first. The presentation of the plate has to look exceptional. Sure, there can be all pretty colors in the world surrounding me, but if the food on the plate doesn't pop to make my mouth anticipate the first taste, well the rest is window dressing. In my photos, I want you to see the freshness of the succulent fresh fish, blended perfectly with the tangy sauce.

Celso showed me, adjusting angles and perspectives can dramatically change the feel of the composition. Would you like to dive into the blue lagoon of a cocktail?

Celso and I hope you enjoyed our culinary art of Bahia. It is my pleasure to be your guide to the richness and diversity of Bahia. I look forward to hosting you one day.

Abra?os,

Howard