A Food Lover's Guide to Unforgettable Restaurants in Cascais & Sintra

Image Credit: Visit Cascais

*This post is in partnership with Visit Cascais. All experiences &  dining were hosted in exchange for editorial coverage. All opinions are my own.

Cascais, Portugal—just 30 minutes west of Lisbon—is not only a coastal dream, it’s also a rising star in the culinary world.  I was fortunate to explore the town's rich culture, stunning seaside views  and vibrant food scene.

From a Michelin-starred tasting menu in a former fortress to seafood tapas on colorful Yellow Street, here are the dining experiences you won't want to miss when visiting Cascais and Sintra.

Fortaleza do Guincho: Michelin-Starred Dining on the Atlantic Coast

This was hands-down the most unique and luxurious dining experience I’ve had to date!  Fortaleza do Guincho, is perched on the cliffs above the Atlantic in a 17th-century former military fortress—and today it houses a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned across Europe. ( & Boutique Hotel)

I had the tasting menu with wine pairing; it was an unforgettable culinary journey through land and sea. 

Menu Highlights:

• Razor Clam with Curry and Oxalis

• Sea Broth with Clam Fricassee & Seaweed Honey

• Crustaceans with Alentejo Ham

• Octopus 

• Kanafeh with Serra da Estrela Cheese & Pistachio 

The experience was elevated by thoughtful wine pairings and sweeping ocean views—if you're planning a special night in Cascais, this is the place! The cuisine, scenery and ambiance were beyond amazing.  All the waiters make the experience fun and unforgettable.  This was definitely one of my favorite experiences while visiting Cascais.

Mana Cascais: Creative Plates on Yellow Street

In the heart of town, tucked along the vibrant Yellow Street, Mana is a modern restaurant with coastal-chic vibes and a menu full of fresh dishes. I dined here for dinner and enjoyed flavor explosions, a refreshing cocktail and excellent service.  A stylish mural welcomes you upon entering- perfect insta-worthy spot!

Reccomended Dish: Chicken Sandwich with Pesto/Paprkia Mayo on Chibatta Bread & Caeser Salad

The vibe? Cool but cozy—perfect for a laid-back night out in Cascais.

@mana.cascais on Instagram

Senhor Manuel: Tapas With a Portuguese Twist

Also located on Yellow Street, Senhor Manuel was one of my favorite casual stops. This seafood tapas bar was buzzing with energy and filled with locals. I ordered a virgin mohitjo, a very refreshing drink for a warm evening in Cascais.  I loved my menu picks, both were delicious!

Reccommended Dish: Asparagus Rissoto and Sauteed Clams in Butter and Garlic 

It’s the kind of spot where you could order a  bit of everything and enjoy it all with a glass of vinho verde' if you like green wine.  After dinner, an espresso is the perfect finish to your meal at Senhor Manuel!

@sr.manuel.seafoodbar

Hotel Baía: Lunch by the Sea

After the dolphin-watching tour, I ate lunch at Hotel Baía Restaurant. It offers sweeping views of the Atlantic! It sits directly across from Praia da Ribeira. The views from the terrace were stunning, and the menu featured classic Portuguese seafood dishes and fresh salads. 

I shared a savory fish dish with Luedji from the Tourist Board. It was similar to what we order in the USA called : Seafood Boil.

Reccommended Dish: Prawn and Cod Skewer Served with Roasted Potatoes and Sautéed Vegetables

This is a great spot for a casual meal where you can watch the boats in the marina and soak in the salty air. I also was fortunate to get a personal tour of the hotel from the owner- an unexpected treat!  Hotel Baía is a 3rd generation family owned accomodation in the village of Cascais, by the sea. It has a total of 113 rooms with views over the beautiful Cascais Bay.  We took a peak at the roof-top pool with a deck overlooking the scenic Atlantic- that's where I'd be parking myself for awhile!

Hotel Baía

Café Paris: A Sintra Classic

After touring the fairytale town of Sintra, I and the tour guide stopped for lunch at Café Paris, located  across from the National Palace of Sintra. The setting felt like stepping into old-world Europe, with polished service and traditional fare. The decor makes you feel like you've been swept away to Paris for lunch. The indoor and outdoor seating are both so inviting- the weather in May is perfect for outside!

We enjoyed fresh seafood for appetizers and for the main dish. We indulged in a tarte for dessert, before heading out to explore Monserrate Palace. 

Recommended Dish: Prawns, Salmon  & Garden Salad, Lemon Tarte for Dessert

Café Paris

 Marisco na Praça: Mercado do Cascais

Tucked inside the bustling Mercado do Cascais, Marisco na Praça  delivers one of the freshest seafood experiences in town. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the local market, this relaxed & refined spot is a true gem for food lovers. 

When the waiter came I decided to would order my favorite seafood dish: oysters. However the only option was raw- so I opted for a steak instead. The beef was smothered in a delicious mushroom sauce and served with small potatoes.

If you do visit and order seafood; it's sourced daily from nearby waters, and I'm sure you won't be disappointed! With its open kitchen, casual vibe and market-to-table freshness: Marisco na Praça is the kind of place you’ll want to return to again!

Reccommended Dish: Beefsteak with Mushroom Sauce

Tips for Dining in Cascais & Sintra

• Book ahead for Fortaleza do Guincho—especially for the tasting menu experience.

• Look for Yellow Street in Cascais—it’s packed with charming restaurants and nightlife.

• Ask for daily specials—especially seafood. Most menus are seasonal and locally inspired.

• Try Vinho Verde—this light, fresh Portuguese white wine pairs beautifully with seafood.

Final Thoughts

Cascais is a food lover's dream—where laid-back beach town meets world-class cuisine. Whether you’re sipping wine near the Atlantic or sharing tapas in a street-side bar, the flavors of this coastal gem are as unforgettable as the views.  I savored every bite at each restaurant, soaked up the stunner views and enjoyed conversation with friendly locals!

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, make time for Cascais—it’s not just a beach escape, it’s a destination for dining.  I ate some of the best tastes of the country in Cascais! 

Have you been to Cascais yet?