The best restaurants and bars in Cascais, Portugal
Cascais, my home since 2020 and a beautiful location to eat and drink in Portugal so I wanted to share what I think are the best restaurants and bars in Cascais. Most people take a day trip from Lisbon, visiting the beaches and bougainvillaea but soon realise Cascais is the perfect place to spend a few days. Go get lost in the maze of calçada paved streets and you’ll discover a foodie heaven!
Planning a trip to Cascais? Stop off here first >> CASCAIS TRAVEL GUIDE
Where to eat and drink in Cascais
I know I’m biassed but Cascais really is a fantastic foodie destination. The town has such a huge variety of restaurants in a small area that it is impossible to get bored. These are my favourite areas to grab a bite and take a sip. There are always new spots popping up so I update this guide regularly.
Bairro Amarelo
First I want to mention Bairro Amarelo which is Cascais’ (better ) version of Lisbon’s Pink Street. Bairro Amarelo (yellow district) is a car-free, restaurant-packed area and in my opinion the best area to eat out in Cascais. There is always a really buzzy atmosphere and the perfect outdoor dining environment. Many of the restaurants I have mentioned below are here. If you’re planning on dining during the weekend or summer then it’s advisable to book many of the restaurants ahead of time as they do get booked up.
Casa da Guia
Just a short 20 minute walk next to the ocean will take you to the residential area of Guia where you’ll also find Casa da Guia. This collection of shops and restaurants is a wonderful place to spend the afternoon. The location is really unique because you are right on the cliffs, as you can imagine the views are amazing!
The Paredão
This 3km beach walk runs right from central Cascais all the way to Praia do Poça and reveals all types of wonders along the way. Prices can be a little higher than average for the type of food but I’ve had many great meals out here and the vibe and view is definitely worth it. I can be found in one of a number of these bars and restaurants most weekends enjoying a cold beer in the sun!
Mercado da Vila
One of the best produce markets I’ve visited in Portugal (I’ve been to a lot). Every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday the mercado transforms into a fantastic farmers market with fruits, veggies, cheese, bread, flowers and more. In addition to the market Mercado da vila hosts a number of fab restaurants including two excellent petisco (Portuguese tapas) and marisco (seafood) restaurants. There are also several cafes where you can pick up freshly baked goods and coffee.
Best Lunch + Dinner Restaurants in Cascais
A list of my personal best restaurants in Cascais. Opening hours are summer hours.
Hífen
Av. Dom Carlos I 48, 2750-310 Cascais
One of my absolute favourite restaurants in Cascais. Modern Portuguese food made from fresh and quality ingredients. The restaurant has two levels and some outdoor seating. You can expect great dishes, great cocktails and good vibes. It’s located right next to the avenida with views across the bay. Popular with both locals and tourists. Book in advance for lunch/dinner.
Malacopa
R. Afonso Sanches 38, 2750-282
My long-time favourite and most-visited restaurant is the authentic Mexican Malacopa. Located in the heart of Bairro Amarelo and is also popular with locals and tourists alike. Expect tasty tacos, a fun vibe and the best tasting margaritas in Cascais. Book in advance for dinner/ weekends.
My pick: Margarita classica and taco de atum.
El Clandestino
Peruvian restaurant with a small but well curated menu. Hidden from view, close to Mercado da Vila.
Jardim dos Frangos
Alameda Combatentes da Grande Guerra 68, 2750-285
Portuguese chicken and chips with piri-piri the authentic way? Look no further. Very good value. Also does take-away. Cash only (ATM next door).
A Leitaria
Largo da Assunção nº17e18, 2750-298
My favourite snack bar and hang out spot for a cheap and cold beer and some salgados (salty snacks). Located in a small square next to the church. It basks in sunshine from lunchtime to early evening in the summer. It’s also a good spot for an early morning local breakfast.
Cantinho do Avillez
One of 3 restaurants run by chef José Avillez. Contemporary Portuguese cuisine that you won’t forget in a hurry. Mouthwatering dishes made with high quality ingredients and a lot of thought. A little bit splurge-y but not OTT.
Souldough Pizza
R. Nova da Alfarrobeira 5, 2750-444
Newly opened in 2023 Souldough is a welcome addition to Cascais. Tucked around the corner from Bairro Amarelo this little pizza haven is the perfect setup for aperitivos with friends followed by delicious stonebaked pizza.
My pick: Ricotta and Pear Pizza
Rebu
Hidden in the historic centre Rebu has a surprising offering – raclette! In addition to that cheesy goodness they also do flavour-heavy, thin-based pizzas to eat in or take away.
Pizzeria Il Siciliano
Rua do Poço Novo 138A, 2750-465
While we are on the pizza train, this is the best pizza restaurant in Cascais (according to me, who takes pizza tasting very seriously). Traditionally made with tasty ingredients and super friendly staff. Eat in or better still take-away and eat on the beach with a couple of cold Peronis (or Sagres if you’re staying loyal to Portugal).
Chutnify
R. Afonso Sanches 53, 2750-282
Modern Indian. One of several in Portugal. Cool decor, outdoor seating and some truly tasty curries.
MOA Sushi
Tv. das Oliveiras 131, 2750-752
Cascais is not short on sushi restaurants and many of them are very good, but of all the ones I’ve tried MOA makes me the happiest. All the classics available plus some unique pieces to taste. Not central. Available on UberEats.
Confraria
R. Luís Xavier Palmeirim 14, 2750-412
A splurge-worth sushi restaurant in the historical centre. Pretty patio with twinkly lights. Perfect for a romantic meal. Also available in Cais do Sodré in Lisbon.
SOYA Noodle Bar
R. Alexandre Herculano Loja B, 2750-444
If you fancy some asian classics like pad thai or ramen this is your place. Great value. Located in Bairro Amarelo and also available on UberEats in case you’re having a night in the apartment.
Azimut
Praia das Moitas, 2765-406 Estoril
Sun kissed beachside restaurant on the paredão 20 mins walk or 2 train stops (Estoril) from Cascais. Lots of seafood dishes and breezy seating. I chose Azimut for birthday prawns and I was not disappointed.
Av. Emídio Navarro 23 A, 2750-337
This is the only restaurant on this list that I haven’t visited yet but the hype is real. Tiny but mesmerising. Eat beautifully prepared dishes face to face with the chefs that made them. Looking forward to updating you on this one soon!
Best Cafes, Coffee and Brunch in Cascais
Lusophonica
Rua do Farol de Santa Marta Museu do Farol de, 2750-800
The most quirky food and drink experience in Cascais? I think so! Lusophonica is a small cafe located at the bottom of Santa Marta lighthouse, next to the most famous view in town. But it isn’t just the location and excellent specialty coffee that makes it stand out; it’s the tiny radio station it hosts too. Grab a coffee (or beer), pull up a chair under the palms, and enjoy the seemingly always perfect playlist. I really can’t recommend this spot enough, I’m genuinely here most weekends.
Milkees/Gleba
R. José Carvalho Araújo 262 Loja A, 2750-396
Arguably the best specialty coffee and bakery in Cascais. A little out of town but worth it if you’re a coffee snob and want a break from the usual espresso at the typical cafes. In my opinion the breakfast menu isn’t anything particularly special but it does have all the classic egg dishes. However, the bread, cakes and cookies are epic – don’t leave without picking up a loaf!
Euphoria
R. Afonso Sanches 12, 2750-282
The newest specialty coffee shop in the heart of the historical centre. It only opened in 2023 but has quickly turned into my favourite place to grab a coffee in Cascais. These guys know their beans! Fantastic brunch menu also available.
Fábrica
A chain of specialty coffee shops that can also be found in Lisbon and Porto. Great coffee and friendly staff. Right in the centre and close to the beach.
Kafeine
Marina de Cascais 42, 2750-800
Cool brunch place in the marina. Not speciality coffee but they have plenty of tasty breakfast and brunch options, and a few cocktails too! Small and busy on the weekends.
Santini
Alameda Combatentes da Grande Guerra 100, 2750-326
“The Best Ice cream in the world”. Maybe not the world but it is very very good. Lots of flavours made from natural ingredients. There is always a queue which is a sign of how good it really is!
Oakberry
One of several açai places in Cascais but this is the one that keeps me coming back for more.
Where to drink in Cascais
A run down of all my favourite spots to enjoy and afternoon or evening drink in Cascais.
Best Bars in Cascais
Emma
I love the buzz of this place and I have spent many afternoons hanging out in the sunshine here. Located right on Praia do Conceição. There are only a few tables outside but just find an empty spot on the wall and the staff will come and take your order. All the usual suspects drink wise. They also do some great entradas and dishes to enjoy outside or in the restaurant itself. Emma sometimes has live music on the weekend too!
The Beach Club
Alameda Duquesa de Palmela 29a, 2750-642
Another beachside bar just a short walk from Emma is this chilled out spot. It’s a Spanish run bar so you can enjoy your drink with a few tapas dishes too!
House of Wanders
R. da Misericórdia 53, 2750-642
Probably better known for the healthy and vegan food they offer but for me this place is all about enjoying a glass of wine on the pretty patio or roof top.
The Tasting Room
R. Frederico Arouca 293, 2750-427
Into wine? The tasting room has one of the biggest wine lists in Cascais. They also offer some delicious petiscos. My pick is usually the peixinhos da horta and a glass of antão vaz.
Tamariz Beach Club
Estoril (two stops on the train from Cascais or 20 minute walk).Open all day but this place is definitely more of a late night hang out. Attracts a younger crowd of locals and foreigners on the weekends. It’s the closest you’ll get to a club in Cascais. It’s right on the beach so great for afternoon cocktails.
Despite living here I’m finding new places to eat and drink popping up all the time. I’ll keep adding as I go so don’t forget to sign up to the mailing list so you don’t miss them.
Tastes & Traditions of Lisbon Food TourFood Tours in Lisbon
If you’re teaming your Cascais trip with Lisbon definitely try one of Devour’s food and experience tours in Lisbon.
Lisbon at Sunset: Petiscos, Food & Wine Tour
Lisbon Food & Fado Tour: An Evening Out in Mouraria & Alfama
Best Restaurants near Cascais
Abano | Praia do Guincho
Traditional food in a restaurant right on the cliff close to but not on Guincho. Great views, lovely spot in summer!
Água e Sal | Azenhas do Mar
Extraordinary fish and seafood in the picture perfect village of Azenhas do Mar.
Esplanada Duna Mar | Praia do Magoito
Seafood restaurant but come here for the bar overlooking the beach.
Ponta do Sal | Praia do São Pedro do Estoril
Cafe/lunch spot with beach vibes.
Jay’s Brunch Cafe | Parede
Popular brunch spot! A long list of sweet and savoury options.
Casa da Praia | Carcavelos
My favourite beach bar in Carcavelos for a drink and sunset. Busy, great music and plenty of drink options. Right on the sand.
There you have it. Almost 3 years of eating and drinking whittled down to a single blog post! The truth is there are tons of amazing restaurants and bars in Cascais and the surrounding area so go set your own foodie trail and tell me what you find so I can add it to my never ending list! Bom appetit!
Heading to Lisbon? >> LISBON EATS + DRINKS
On your way to Lagos? >> LAGOS BEST COFFEE SHOPS
