Cascais has quietly built one of Portugal's most impressive restaurant scenes, with more Michelin recommendations per capita than anywhere outside Lisbon and Porto. The transformation began when José Avillez, Portugal's most celebrated chef, returned to his hometown and opened four restaurants in quick succession. This triggered an avalanche of ambitious new openings that continues today.

The town's unique position creates unusual dining dynamics. Working fishing boats still unload at the harbour each morning, supplying restaurants with fish that's often on plates within hours. Yet just minutes away, Michelin-starred establishments serve €200 tasting menus to an international clientele. This isn't a seasonal beach resort that hibernates in winter; wealthy Lisboetas maintain year-round homes here, demanding and supporting serious restaurants twelve months a year.

The result is remarkable dining density. The tiny pedestrian Bairro Amarelo packs 40 restaurants into four narrow streets. While the dramatic Guincho coast adds another series of high-end options overlooking Atlantic breakers. In total, Cascais offers over 300 restaurants for just 35,000 residents, ranging from €8 grilled sardine plates at the fish market to exquisite Michelin tasting menus.

This guide will detail the best restaurants of Cascais and help you avoid the many tourist traps.

 

 

Fortaleza do Guincho: Occupying a 17th-century fortress with breathtaking Atlantic views, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sublime journey through modern Portuguese seafood, masterfully executed by Chef Gil Fernandes - www.fortalezadoguincho.com

Cantinho do Avillez: This location from two-Michelin-star Chef José Avillez serves contemporary Portuguese food with global influences in a chic yet relaxed setting in the historic center - www.cantinhodoavillez.pt

Maré by José Avillez: Overlooking the ocean at Guincho, Maré is Chef Avillez's tribute to the spectacular flavor and freshness of Portuguese fish and seafood, served in a sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere - joseavillez.pt

Mar do Inferno: A beloved local institution perched on the cliffs of Boca do Inferno, this family-run restaurant is the go-to for classic seafood platters and the freshest grilled fish with an unbeatable view - www.mardoinferno.pt

Furnas do Guincho: Another must-visit for seafood lovers, this restaurant is built into the ocean rocks at Guincho, offering an elevated menu of Portuguese classics like octopus cataplana and impressive flambe fish - www.furnasdoguincho.pt

Monte Mar: Famous for its signature hake fillets with cockle rice, Monte Mar provides a classic seafood dining experience with an expansive menu and a stunning terrace situated directly over the sea - www.montemar.pt

Hífen: A trendy, modern restaurant and bar overlooking Cascais Bay, Hífen is known for its inventive, shareable Portuguese tapas, creative cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere - www.hifenrestaurant.com

5 Sentidos: A hidden gem that has recently reopened in a new location, this restaurant earns rave reviews for its creative fusion of traditional Portuguese and modern Mediterranean cuisine, all delivered with top-class service.

O Pescador: A rustic tavern in the heart of Cascais since 1964, O Pescador is celebrated for its simple yet flavourful fresh fish and seafood, and boasts an incredible wine cellar with over 4,000 bottles - www.restaurantepescador.pt

A Nova Estrela: For a truly authentic and affordable taste of Portugal, this hidden, family-run restaurant serves delicious traditional dishes like codfish gratin and grilled octopus with famously friendly service.

House of Wonders: A bohemian and eclectic vegetarian paradise, this unique spot features a visual menu of Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, fresh juices, and a sun-drenched rooftop terrace that is a destination in itself - houseofwonders.eatbu.com

Lamassa: An intimate and highly sought-after restaurant in Estoril where Italian family tradition comes to life through exquisite, handmade fresh pasta dishes like classic carbonara and cacio e pepe - lamassafhp.pt

Pizzeria Il Siciliano: Run by a Sicilian owner, this spot is a local favourite for authentic, delicious pizzas with a thin, airy crust, as well as a full menu of classic Italian pastas and salads.

Kappo: For a formal and memorable Japanese dining experience, this restaurant offers an intimate 12-seat counter where Chef Tiago Penão serves an exquisite Omakase (chef's choice) menu that rivals experiences in Kyoto - www.kappo.pt

Confraria: One of Cascais's original and best-loved Japanese restaurants, Confraria excels at creative fusion sushi, served in a beautiful setting with a romantic, twinkly-lit patio - confrariasushi.pt

Moules & Gin: A unique and romantic concept, this restaurant specializes in large pots of mussels served with a variety of inventive sauces, perfectly paired with an extensive selection of gins served in balloon glasses - moulesandgin.com

El Caminito: Meat lovers flock to this Argentinian grill for high-quality steaks sourced directly from Argentina, served in a cozy house in the historic center with a lovely view from the top floor - www.caminitodelalbir.com

Malacopa Taco Bar: The vibrant heart of the Bairro Amarelo, Malacopa serves up authentic coastal Mexican street tacos and killer margaritas in a buzzy, convivial atmosphere perfect for a fun night out - malacopa.pt

Jardim dos Frangos: A legendary local institution since 1974, this is the place for authentic, juicy, and affordable Portuguese piri-piri chicken grilled over charcoal, served simply with fries - www.jardimdosfrangoscascais.pt

Santini: An iconic Cascais experience since 1949, this artisanal gelateria is famous for its intensely flavourful ice creams and sorbets made fresh daily with natural ingredients and no additives - santini.pt

The following section delves into ten of the most significant restaurants, chosen to represent the full spectrum of experiences available.

Fortaleza do Guincho
Cuisine: Modern Portuguese, Seafood
Price: €€€€ (Spare no expense)
Vibe: Luxurious, Formal, Unforgettable
Location: Estrada do Guincho (Guincho Coast)
Website: www.fortalezadoguincho.com

The Experience: Dining at Fortaleza do Guincho is a memorable culinary experience. The setting is unparalleled: a 17th-century military fortress perched on the rugged cliffs above the wild Atlantic, offering sweeping ocean views. The restaurant's journey began with a French fine dining concept under the acclaimed Chef Antoine Westermann, earning its first Michelin star in 2001—a distinction it has maintained ever since. Today, under the guidance of Chef Gil Fernandes, the philosophy has evolved to be intensely focused on its location, with a cuisine that is a direct and sophisticated reflection of the sea it overlooks. The ambiance is one of formal luxury, with impeccable service and artistic presentation.

On the Menu: Holding a coveted Michelin star, the restaurant is renowned across Europe. The tasting menu is the definitive experience, described as an "unforgettable culinary journey through land and sea". Chef Fernandes specializes in seafood and fresh fish, constantly introducing new items that demonstrate his expertise. Highlighted dishes from this journey include creative plates like Razor Clam with Curry and Oxalis, a deeply flavourful Sea Broth with Clam Fricassee & Seaweed Honey, and an inventive dessert of Kanafeh with Serra da Estrela Cheese & Pistachio. The experience is elevated by thoughtful wine pairings that complement the maritime flavours.

Expert's Insight: This is the absolute pinnacle of special occasion dining in Cascais. It's an experience that fully justifies the splurge, delivering not just world-class cuisine but a memorable evening that stays with you. Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance, particularly if you wish to experience the tasting menu.

Cantinho do Avillez
Cuisine: Modern Portuguese
Price: €€€ (Special Occasion)
Vibe: Contemporary, Sophisticated, Bustling
Location: Historic Center (Rua da Palmeira)
Website: www.cantinhodoavillez.pt

The Experience: The opening of Cantinho do Avillez in Cascais was significant for locals. Chef José Avillez, a culinary superstar with two Michelin stars and a portfolio of acclaimed restaurants, returned to the town where he grew up to open this vibrant eatery. The concept is contemporary Portuguese cuisine, deeply influenced by the chef's international travels but also infused with flavors from his childhood in Cascais. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance: it's more relaxed and comfortable than his formal fine-dining establishments, yet it maintains a sophisticated, modern, and bustling energy that makes it a hotspot in the historic center.

On the Menu: The menu features familiar Portuguese dishes reimagined with a modern, global twist. It’s designed to be delightful and surprising, featuring high-level culinary thinking in an accessible format. Signature dishes that have become fan favourites include the Vitela de comer à colher (a meltingly tender veal dish meant to be eaten with a spoon) and the comforting Queijo de Nisa no forno (baked Nisa cheese). Reviewers also consistently praise the scallops, the perfectly cooked steak, and the refreshing white wine sangria.

Expert's Insight: Cantinho do Avillez offers the most accessible entry point into the culinary world of one of Portugal's most celebrated chefs. It's the ideal choice for those who want to experience innovative, high-quality cooking without the formality of a fine-dining tasting menu. Given the chef's reputation and the restaurant's immense popularity, booking a table in advance is highly recommended.

Mar do Inferno
Cuisine: Traditional Portuguese Seafood
Price: €€€ (Special Occasion)
Vibe: Authentic, Family-Run, Local Institution
Location: Boca do Inferno
Website: www.mardoinferno.pt

The Experience: More than just a restaurant, Mar do Inferno is a Cascais institution. For over 48 years, this family establishment has been run by the matriarch Maria de Lourdes Tirano and her sons, and it’s known affectionately to locals simply as "Lourdes" or "Dona Lourdes". Its location is as dramatic as its name suggests, nestled on the rocky coastline by the Boca do Inferno ("Mouth of Hell"), a natural chasm in the cliffs where the Atlantic waves crash with spectacular force. This is a place steeped in tradition, where the focus is squarely on the quality of the food and the warmth of the welcome.

On the Menu: The menu is a testament to the restaurant's prime location, offering the freshest fish and a vast array of shellfish pulled from the nearby sea. For those seeking the quintessential experience, the generous seafood platter (mariscada) is a must-order, piled high with sea bass, bream, prawns, mussels, and more. Alternatively, one can simply choose a whole fish from the day's catch to be grilled to perfection. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the seafood, highlighting dishes like lobster, cod fingers, and a shrimp platter served with risotto.

Expert's Insight: This is the destination for an authentic, high-quality, and unpretentious Cascais seafood feast. It embodies the heart of Portuguese coastal dining. While the terrace is highly coveted on sunny days, an insider tip suggests the atmosphere inside can be just as, if not more, enjoyable. Booking ahead is crucial, especially if you hope to secure a table with an ocean view.

Hífen
Cuisine: Modern Portuguese, Tapas
Price: €€ (Moderate)
Vibe: Trendy, Modern, Social
Location: Cascais Bay
Website: www.hifenrestaurant.com

The Experience: Hífen brings modern energy to the Cascais waterfront. Situated with a direct view of the bay and Praia da Ribeira, it's a trendy, modern restaurant and bar that has become a hotspot for both locals and in-the-know travelers. The name "Hífen" (hyphen) reflects its concept of connection—bringing people together over good food and drinks. The atmosphere is social and energetic, particularly on weekends, with a stylish bar and tables spilling out onto the sidewalk, making it perfect for drinks or a full meal.

On the Menu: The cuisine is a modern take on Portuguese food, with a focus on creative, original dishes designed for sharing (petiscos). The menu features a unique fusion of Portuguese, Asian, and Mediterranean influences. Standout dishes praised by diners include inventive small plates like the Sar-di-nha (a modern take on sardines with ponzu, quinoa, and tomato), duck escabeche with mandarin, and the traditional Bacalhau à Brás (cod a la bras), which a server recommended as her personal comfort food. The bar is equally audacious, serving cocktails like a horseradish-infused gin, and the sangrias are highly recommended.

Expert's Insight: Hífen is world-class, delivering inventive and perfectly executed plates at an incredible value. It's the ideal spot for those looking for a lively atmosphere and a taste of contemporary Portuguese cooking. It's a passion project that gets the food, drinks, and vibe just right.

House of Wonders
Cuisine: Vegetarian, Middle Eastern-inspired Mezze
Price: €€ (Moderate)
Vibe: Bohemian, Eclectic, Relaxed
Location: Historic Center
Website: houseofwonders.eatbu.com

The Experience: Tucked away in the charming streets of the historic center, House of Wonders is a vibrant, multi-level vegetarian oasis with a distinctly bohemian feel. It's more than just one restaurant; it's a collection of spaces, including a ground-floor patisserie, a main dining area with a hot-and-cold buffet, and, most famously, a sun-drenched rooftop terrace filled with colourful beanbags and plants. The concept is unique: there is no traditional menu. Instead, diners are greeted with a visual display of the day's dishes and choose visually from the display, adding to the interactive and relaxed atmosphere.

On the Menu: The food is entirely vegetarian, with many vegan options, drawing inspiration from fresh, flavourful Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu changes daily but often features dishes like layered vegetable gratin, beetroot salad, shakshuka, hummus, veggie burgers, and various curries and wraps. Everything is praised for being exceptionally fresh and delicious. To accompany the food, the restaurant serves fresh-pressed juices and a highly recommended passion fruit sangria.

Expert's Insight: House of Wonders is highly recommended, even for non-vegetarians. It offers a wonderfully unique and flavourful dining experience that feels like a discovery. The rooftop terrace is one of the best spots in Cascais to enjoy a sunny afternoon lunch. The friendly staff and delicious, healthy food make it a place you'll want to return to.

Lamassa
Cuisine: Italian (Fresh Handmade Pasta)
Price: €€€ (Special Occasion)
Vibe: Artisanal, Intimate, Authentic
Location: Estoril
Website: lamassafhp.pt

The Experience: A true hidden gem in the neighbouring town of Estoril, Lamassa is an artisanal pasta restaurant that has earned a devoted following among locals and the area's Italian community. The venture is a partnership between Portuguese Pedro and Italian Romina Lamassa, who brought her family's tradition of making fresh pasta by hand to Portugal. The restaurant is incredibly intimate, with only six tables, creating a cozy and exclusive atmosphere where the focus is entirely on the craft of pasta making.

On the Menu: The menu is a celebration of authentic Italian pasta, made fresh and by hand in the restaurant daily. They explore various shapes and regional traditions, serving up comforting classics executed to perfection. Dishes like cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper) and a classic carbonara are staples, showcasing the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the kitchen. Other highlights include pappardelle with wild boar ragu and ravioli stuffed with fresh burrata.

Expert's Insight: Lamassa offers what may be the best and most authentic fresh pasta experience in the greater Lisbon area. Due to its tiny size and immense popularity, making a reservation is not just recommended—it is absolutely essential to secure a seat. Remember to leave room for dessert.

Kappo
Cuisine: Japanese (Kaiseki/Omakase)
Price: €€€€ (Spare no expense)
Vibe: Formal, Intimate, Culinary Theatre
Location: Historic Center
Website: www.kappo.pt

The Experience: Kappo delivers an elite Japanese fine dining experience. The name itself, meaning "to slice and cook," refers to a traditional style of Japanese dining that is less formal than kaiseki but equally refined. The entire restaurant is centred around an elegant 12-seat counter, where guests sit face-to-face with Chef Tiago Penão and his team, watching them work with precision and skill. The ambiance is intimate and serene, guided by the Japanese principle of Omotenashi, a deep, genuine form of hospitality that anticipates every need.

On the Menu: There is a single offering: the Omakase menu, a multi-course tasting journey where you place your trust entirely in the chef. This menu is a celebration of the seasons, using the highest quality ingredients to create dishes that are both technically precise and profoundly flavourful. The experience is described as rivalling meals in Kyoto, making it the top choice in Cascais for a "big night out with many great Japanese tastes". Each of the "eleven moments" is crafted to reveal the purest essence of the ingredients.

Expert's Insight: Kappo is a serious culinary destination for lovers of Japanese cuisine. It is not a place for a casual sushi dinner but rather a formal, immersive experience of culinary theatre. With only 12 seats per service, reservations are mandatory and should be made far in advance.

Malacopa Taco Bar
Cuisine: Mexican (Coastal Street Tacos)
Price: €€ (Moderate)
Vibe: Vibrant, Fun, Casual
Location: Bairro Amarelo
Website: malacopa.pt

The Experience: Located in the heart of the Bairro Amarelo, Cascais's dedicated, car-free dining district, Malacopa Taco Bar is the standout restaurant in the area. The streets, painted a cheerful yellow, are packed with outdoor tables, and Malacopa is at the center of this buzzy, energetic atmosphere. It's a casual, fun spot that captures the spirit of a modern Mexican taqueria, perfect for a lively evening of food and drinks with friends.

On the Menu: The focus is on coastal Mexican street tacos, but with a distinct Portuguese twist, reflecting the fresh ingredients available locally. The menu features a wide array of tacos, including fish tacos with well-balanced sauces, shrimp tacos, and savoury meat options like barbacoa (slow-cooked lamb) and al pastor (marinated pork). Beyond tacos, they offer antojitos (snacks) like fresh guacamole, ceviche tostadas, and esquites (fried corn). The drinks menu is equally impressive, with a range of top-notch margaritas, palomas, and other classic and signature cocktails.

Expert's Insight: Malacopa is a standout in the Bairro Amarelo and a must for anyone craving authentic and delicious Mexican food. The combination of great tacos, excellent margaritas, and a vibrant street-side setting makes it one of the most fun and satisfying casual dining experiences in Cascais.

Jardim dos Frangos
Cuisine: Portuguese (Piri-Piri Chicken)
Price: € (Inexpensive)
Vibe: Local Institution, Casual, No-Frills
Location: Historic Center
Website: www.jardimdosfrangoscascais.pt

The Experience: A true Cascais legend, Jardim dos Frangos has been serving the community since 1974. Founded by José "Pepe" Gil Alvárez, this restaurant and churrasqueira (grill house) is a beloved local institution, known for its simple, delicious food and bustling, no-nonsense atmosphere. It's a place where locals and tourists alike queue up for a taste of one of Portugal's most iconic dishes. The vibe is comfortable and often frenetic, but the service is efficient and the value is unbeatable.

On the Menu: The star of the show is the frango assado com piri-piri—charcoal-grilled chicken. The "legendary marinated chicken" is grilled over charcoal until the skin is crispy and flavourful and the meat is tender and juicy. It’s served simply with french fries and a side salad. For those who like it spicy, the house-made piri-piri sauce is famously potent. While chicken is the main draw, the menu also features other Portuguese staples like grilled sardines, steaks, and fresh fish.

Expert's Insight: A meal at Jardim dos Frangos is an essential Cascais experience. It offers a delicious and authentic taste of everyday Portuguese cuisine at a very reasonable price. Don't be deterred by the queue; it moves quickly and is a testament to the restaurant's enduring popularity. This is simple Portuguese food done exceptionally well.

El Caminito
Cuisine: Argentinian (Grill/Steakhouse)
Price: €€€ (Special Occasion)
Vibe: Meat-Focused, Cozy, Authentic
Location: Historic Center
Website: www.caminitodelalbir.com

The Experience: Tucked away in a house in the historic center, El Caminito is a haven for meat lovers seeking an authentic Argentinian grill experience. The restaurant has a cozy, energetic atmosphere that is quiet enough for conversation, with a lovely view from its top-floor dining room. The service is consistently praised as delightful and first-class, making for a warm and welcoming meal.

On the Menu: The specialty is high-quality meat sourced directly from Argentina. The menu features a comprehensive selection of classic Argentinian cuts, including Lomo (tenderloin), Bife de Chorizo (sirloin), Ojo de Bife (ribeye), and Picanha. These can be ordered individually or as part of generous parrilla mixed grill platters designed for sharing. Beyond the steaks, the menu includes traditional starters like empanadas and choripan, as well as satisfying side dishes like sweet potato fries and a highly-rated lime cheesecake for dessert.

Expert's Insight: El Caminito is widely regarded as the best steakhouse in Cascais. For anyone craving a perfectly cooked, high-quality piece of meat, this is the place to go. The combination of excellent food, great service, and a charming setting makes it a standout. Given its popularity, making a reservation is a wise choice.