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In Europe

Toulouse la Ville Rose of Southwestern France

Visiting France has always been high on our travel planning lists. We enjoy the French way of life. The lifestyle of working to live, rather than living to work. Enjoying a glass of wine at lunch, savoring every meal, and enjoying each day for all it’s worth feel just right to us.

When we had the opportunity to visit Toulouse we were excited to go to a new city in France. No matter how much we prepare, research, and plan we always end up like wide-eyed children when we first arrive at a new destination. Toulouse, France was no exception. Our short drive from the airport to town transported us to a lovely city along the River Garonne. We knew we had arrived somewhere special.

toulouse-france-map — Toulouse is located in southwestern France.

Toulouse The Pink City

The Toulouse population of 950,000, is the fourth largest city in France. The city has its own unique pink terra cotta bricks that explain its description as “the Pink City” or la Ville Rose.

the-front-of-the-capitole-in-tolouse-france — The Capitole in Toulouse, France

The square that houses The Capitole is surrounded by interesting buildings and cafes to sip a cup of coffee or glass of wine. In a unique twist, you’ll find that the town hall also operates as an opera house.

the-capitole-in-toulose-food-travelist — The Great Stairway in The Capitole in Toulouse France

the-capital-in-tolouse-france — Sale des Illustres in The Capitole hosts official receptions and wedding celebrations.

An impressive selection of large tableaux covers many walls throughout the city hall. Each depicts the historical events of the city’s history.

relaxing-in-the-outdoor-cafes-in-tolouse-france — The Capitole Square bustles day & night.

Famous pink stones are not the only fascinating aspect of architecture in this beautiful place. Roman and medieval history come to life as you walk the city streets.

timbered-buildings-in-tolouse-france — Timbered buildings in Toulouse

courtyards-in-tolouse-france — Beautiful courtyards are abundant in Toulouse.

Toulouse is a walker’s delight. Although there is an excellent public transportation system, we enjoyed great fun walking up and down the streets finding treasures along the way.

Tourism Pass

The city offers a Tourism Pass that starts at 15 euros and includes free entry to the museums in the city center, a guided tour from the Toulouse Tourist office, and free travel on the local transportation – metro, tram, bus, and airport shuttle bus. It also offers discounts at many other tourist sites and shops and things to do in Toulouse. You can purchase a 24, 48, or 72-hour card. Check here for all the details Toulouse-Visit.com.

shopping-street-in-tolouse-france — Take Rue du Taur from the Capitole to Couvent des Jacobins.

We’d recommend traveling up the Rue du Taur when you leave Capitole Square. It’s an easy walk up this shopping street to Couvent des Jacobins. Founded by the Dominican order, this peaceful monastery and gardens encourage contemplation and serenity. Perhaps most importantly, it is the final resting place of Saint Thomas Aquinas and you will find his relics housed here.

couvent- des-jacobin-tolouse-church — Cloister at the Couvent des Jacobin in Toulouse.

Toulouse is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage site Basilica Saint-Sernin. It is the largest remaining Romanesque building in Europe. It is also along the route of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route. The Way of St. James (in English) was one of the most important Christian pilgrimages during the Middle Ages.

graine-de-pastel-in-toulouse-france-food-travelist — Pastel the Toulouse violet.

You’ll discover many pastel products in Toulouse made from Isatis Tinctoria, the unique locally grown plant that provides a beautiful blue pigment. Mills in the area exported pastel products all over Europe. The industry suffered when the competition for “Chinese Pastels” from India grew. The business is being revived as more beauty and healthcare properties of pastel have become popular. We love the lavender scent and brought lots of pastel gifts home for friends and family.

Toulouse European Capital of Aeronautics and Space

You might be surprised to learn that Toulouse is the #1 city in Europe for the aeronautics and space industry. The Airbus headquarters are located in Toulouse. Intel and CNES’s Toulouse Space Centre, the largest space center in Europe, are also among the top companies in town.

la-cite-de-lespace-toulouse — La Cite de le’space Toulouse

The highly respected University of Toulouse is the fourth largest university in France and among the oldest in Europe.

Tourist attractions La Cite de l’espace, Aeroscopia and Let’s Visit Airbus are interesting adventures for travelers who want to learn more about flying and for anyone curious about space.

What About the Food

Do you like fresh, local food prepared by passionate chefs and vendors? Then Toulouse is definitely for you. Here’s just a sampling of the many delicious food and amazing restaurants you will find.

foie-gras-with-apricot-jam-brasserie-flo-toulose — Foie gras de canard with apricot chutney at Brasserie des Beaux Arts.

Located along the River Garonne, the Brasserie de Beaux Arts was originally the meeting place of students from the School of Fine Arts. Artists like Ingres and Matisse frequented the establishment and enjoyed the flavors of the area.

goat-cheese-with-fresh-vegetables — Goat Cheese and rosemary creme brûlée and crunchy vegetables at Brasserie des Beaux-Arts.

We started with the classic foie gras and sampled the Toulouse sausage which we were told is a special recipe for the region. It included lean and fatty chunks of pork – incredibly delicious!

toulouse-sausage-with-potatoes-food-travelist — Toulouse Sausage with homemade mashed potatoes a Brasserie des Beaux-Arts.

chocolately-dessert-at-brasserie-flo-toulouse-france — Vintage Valrhona Illanka Chocolate dessert at Brasserie des Beaux-Arts.

Dinner is not complete without a perfect dessert and we were served a perfectly chocolatey rich dessert. It was rich, gooey, and undeniably tasty.

meat-vendor-at-victor-hugo-market-tolouse-france — Vendor at Victor Hugo Market in Toulouse.

Much to Explore

The best way to be able to sample many local foods is to walk the streets of Toulouse. There are markets and shops on every street. One of the best and largest markets in town is the Victor Hugo Market.

betty-cheese-at-victor-hugo-fresh-market-tolouse — Cheese vendor Betty at Victor Hugo Market.

The market has everything you’d expect and more. Vendors with fresh produce, flowers, cheese, meats, and fish abound. You’ll want to leave plenty of time to explore and sample your way through the tastes of the market. One of the things I love so much about visiting the markets is watching the locals shop, carefully evaluating options, choosing just right the items, making their purchases, and then heading off on their way knowing they’ve selected the perfect foods for their family’s breakfast, lunch or dinner.

veal-with-mushrooms-and-noodle-the-villa-tropezienne-toulouse-france-food-travelist — Delicious veal in mushroom sauce at Villa Tropezienne.

Just across the street from the Victor Hugo Market is the restaurant Villa Tropezienne. It’s a typically delightful French bistro with indoor or outdoor seating. They offer typical bistro menu items like beef tartare, foie gras, salads, and much more.

foie-gras-appetizer-at-the-villa-tropezienne-toulouse-france — Foie gras at Villa Tropezienne.

I have to admit that on this trip we sampled many different types of foie gras and pâté. We know they’re not for everyone but if you like these meaty treats, you will love the many delicious ways Toulouse serves them up.

shaved-foie-gras-le-l-restaurant-toulouse — Shaved foie gras at Le L Restaurant.

One of the most interesting selections was shaved foie gras which we tasted at the Le L Restaurant.

le-l-restaurant-toulouse — Local fish dish at le L Restaurant

amorino-gelato-in-tolouse-france — Amorino gelato

A Culinary Delight

As you’re exploring the streets of Toulouse be sure to stop and try the treats. Whether your passion is gelato, chocolates, wine, beer, or some other tasty bite or beverage, you’ll no doubt find it in Toulouse.

sandyan-patisserie-chocolates-in-tolouse-france — Sandyan Patisserie chocolate.

sorbet-d-amour-in-tolouse-france — Sorbet d’ Amour

The city has more than 1,700 places to eat so choosing which ones to check out may prove to be the most difficult part of your visit.

There are many outdoor cafés and bistros but we particularly enjoyed evening riverside revelers. On a Monday night, we witnessed young people relaxing along the river. Some shared a bottle of wine and takeout food. The cutest thing was watching riverside dancing by people of every generation that we heard happens just about every day.

As we wandered around the streets of Toulouse we found kebab stands and ethnic spots, gelaterias, pizza parlors, and hamburger places all open late.

evening-dancing-by-the-river-in-tolouse-france — Evening dancing by the river.

A City of Diversity

Because Toulouse is a university town that means lots of students. Lots of students mean a diverse community exists in Toulouse. Walking around the town you’ll find just about every type of ethnic dining option. It’s a modern metropolis with everything from kimchi to kebab, tapas to tikka masala, and much, much more. You’ll be able to quench your craving for cheap and cheerful ethnic eats in Toulouse.

A friendly and open city, Toulouse is very tourist-friendly and many people speak English here. There’s also a vibrant LGBT community and an active gay-friendly scene. If you’re interested, you can pick up the L’annuaire Solidaire guide to welcoming establishments while you’re there for all the details.

Where to Stay

We stayed at the deservedly five-star La Cour des Consuls Hotel and Spa which is part of the M Gallery by Sofitel. The luxurious hotel is centrally located, an easy to walk the to city center and the riverfront.

hotel-la-cour-des-consul-toulouse-food-travelist — La Cour des Consuls Hotel & Spa

The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and beautifully appointed. Our stay included lovely continental breakfasts. You can have fresh French pastries, eggs prepared to your liking, meats, cheeses, fruits, and more. Frankly, there was a range of options available, far more than we could eat. The breakfast room was quiet, which we really appreciated.

outdoor-dining-at-hotel-la-cour-des-consul-in-tolouse-france — Outdoor dining at La Cour des Consuls in Toulouse.

La Cour des Consuls’ gorgeous outdoor restaurant Le Cenacle lets you dine al fresco in the private courtyard. Michelin star chef Jerome Ryon has created a refined yet modern menu. It’s a lovely intimate dining experience.

The hotel also has a beautiful spa that uses local and luxurious Graine de Pastel products, which are also available in your room.

Toulouse Gateway to Southwest France

As we experienced it, Toulouse is a wonderful destination for Food Travelists. You can get there easily with a quick-hour flight from Paris via Air France. Once in Toulouse, you can also visit other major UNESCO sites such as the City of Carcassone, The Episcopal City of Albi, and the Port de la Lune in Bourdeaux. Toulouse is another historic, beautiful, welcoming, and delicious area of France that you should add to your travel plans. When you explore its many wonderful offerings and experiences, you will truly enjoy this unique and unforgettable city.

Thank you to Atout France for hosting us during our trip to the Midi-Pyrénées. We were not financially compensated. All opinions are our own and reflect our experiences.

Learn more about planning a visit to Toulouse at Toulouse-visit.com.

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In Breakfast

Healthy Zucchini Bread Recipe

By Diana Laskaris

One of our favorite ways to get the vitamins and minerals our bodies need to be healthy is through fun and easy recipes that put the veggies in the background. Healthy zucchini bread has to be near the top of our list. This super tasty and fun way to sneak in the ubiquitous zucchini that summer brings is a real winner that pleases even the most demanding non-veggie eaters. Try this easy zucchini bread recipe at home and you’ll be surprised by how many requests you get to make it again and again.

You can adjust the spices to suit your tastes. Some people double up on cinnamon and that’s all they use. Others include a variety of cinnamon, allspice, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and more. We even know some folks who like to use pumpkin pie spice to give their zucchini bread a bit of fall flavor.

Whatever you do, be sure that when you shred your zucchini that you leave all the juice with it for this zucchini bread recipe. That’s part of what makes it so nice and moist.

We enjoy topping our healthy zucchini bread with light cream cheese, ricotta, Sun Butter, tahini, or other nut butters.

Zucchini bread is great for breakfast or a snack, even just all by itself. It’s filling with fiber, making it a good way to avoid the hunger monster between meals.

This is a pretty quick and easy way to enjoy zucchini with a touch of sweetness. Let us know what you think!

Healthy Zucchini Bread

Enjoy this moist and tasty, slightly sweet zucchini bread recipe at breakfast, for a snack, or any time of day.

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup neutral oil (vegetable, macadamia nut, etc.)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
About 2 cups grated zucchini, 1 medium-large squash

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Generously grease the bottom and sides of a 9×5 loaf pan.
3. Grate the zucchini into a bowl using a box or straight grater with medium or large holes. Do not peel the zucchini and do retain all of the liquid that results from shredding.
4. Combine flour, spices, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl and stir to blend.

5. In a medium bowl, use a whisk or fork to thoroughly combine the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
6. Add in the grated zucchini to the wet mixture and stir to integrate.
7. Pour the wet zucchini mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined – don’t overmix or your zucchini bread will turn out rubbery.
8. Place batter into the greased loaf pan.
9. Bake on center rack in oven for 60-70 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. When fully baked leave to cool thoroughly before removing from pan or it might stick to bottom or sides.

You can also add other things to this easy zucchini bread recipe if you like. A few popular additions include chocolate chips, golden raisins or other dried berries and fruit, chopped nuts, and coconut flakes. Make it however you like it.

If you like zucchini, try out our Zucchini Spaghetti recipe too!

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In Food

15 Best Cascais Restaurants

By Diana Laskaris

Updated December 2023

We have been living in the area of Cascais Portugal for over two years now. It’s safe to say that we have had a lot of amazing meals here. Whether you want seafood, meat, or vegetarian, there are lots of phenomenal restaurants waiting to serve you the very best. It’s fun to visit some swanky spots from time to time as well as enjoy cuisines from other countries. Many of our favorites are local “tascas” or family-owned and operated gems serving authentic local Portuguese fare.

People coming for a visit often ask for our recommendations. So, even though we’re discovering new places all the time, we wanted to share some of the best restaurants in Cascais from our experiences so far. Here, in no particular order, are our 15 Cascais restaurants not to miss.

1. Flecha Azul

For a fantastic meal at a fantastic price on a side street just out of the touristic main drag, Flecha Azul is the place to go. This Cascais restaurant run by brothers who know how to keep you happy, has become a favorite with those we have introduced it to as well. They offer traditional Portuguese meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Every day also has a couple of specials, which are usually outstanding examples of Portuguese classics. They have omelets, salads (their tuna salad is one of our favorites), and pasta dishes too. Try the “pressed” wine here, which is a house wine that comes from a tap, quite pleasing and inexpensive.

Porco preto and Flecha Azul in Casais Portugal

There are tables outside as well as inside the simple restaurant with a humble ambiance. Service is fun and the brothers have a quirky sense of humor, best exemplified by when Diana asked for a small beer, and out came a beer in a tiny shot glass mug, which got a big laugh from everyone. This is one of those places you can always count on for ample portions, great food, and very reasonable prices.

2. Pizzeria Il Siciliano

There is no lack of Italian food restaurants in Cascais, and Pizzeria Il Siciliano is one of our favorites. The owner is from Sicily, knows how to make a great pizza, and has the oven to do it. The service is friendly and the menu offers all the hits. Pizzas, pastas, salads, and more. A fun way to start is with a delicious bruschetta. This is also a good place if you have a group because the food is easy to split and there is an extensive wine menu. It’s again on a side street away from the main touristic area so you will find plenty of expats and Portuguese locals dining here.

Veggie Pizza at Pizzeria Il Siciliano Cascais Portugal

You’re not cramped inside and there are a few tables out front when the weather permits. Desserts are highly regarded here too. For those who need a gluten-free option, they’ll find it available and tasty here. The restaurant is popular, so go early or make a reservation to be sure you don’t have to wait. They do a brisk takeaway/delivery business all over Cascais Portugal.

3. Hifen

For a delicious meal with a view of the water, Hifen is one of the best restaurants in Cascais. This hip restaurant offers an eclectic range of dishes that are great for sharing. Petiscos are like Portuguese tapas and make for a fun meal with a variety of tastes. Meat, seafood, and vegetarian options come with Portuguese, Asian, Mexican, Middle Eastern, and European influences. Tuna Crudo and tabbouleh, duck tostada, shrimp tempura, and veal tataki hint at some of the unique dishes.

Salmon tataki at Hifen in Cascais Portugal

There are lots of veggie options “from the garden” as well as fun starters like chips from the world, featuring cassava, yam, and parsnip fries with a delectable dipping sauce. Add an excellent drinks menu and a beautiful view of Cascais Bay, and you’re set for a fabulous time. Weekends may have music too, but every day is busy, so be sure to make a reservation at this trendy, popular spot.

4. El Caminito

We discovered El Caminito after walking through the side street where it sits quietly just out of the Cascais touristic fray. If you’re a meat lover, then you won’t want to miss out on this Argentinian grill that specializes in meat actually from Argentina. The wine list is good and reasonable and there’s a lovely view from the top floor. Side dishes, seafood, and vegetarian choices are satisfying as well. A great option is the combo platters, different meats served on a platter together so you can try a few different cuts from picanha to entrecote. We went with a party of four and had more than enough meat with a few sides and starters so that we were too stuffed even to try dessert. Sangria and cocktails are available too.

The service is delightful and the place is energetic but quiet enough that you can hear the people you are dining with, which in some places isn’t that easy to do. Inside a house in the historic center, this Cascais restaurant is truly a hidden gem. But because the locals know all about it, make a reservation.

5. LovIt

LovIt is one of those places that you go and know you will never be disappointed. The Cascais restaurant’s outdoor dining area on the Casa da Guia grounds is large and that’s a good thing – because it always fills up. There’s dining inside too if the weather doesn’t cooperate. But being outside with a view of the coastline makes it so special. As does the menu, which is ridiculously good for people who all want something different. The sushi here is offered in abundance, even up to a 40-piece platter.

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6. Furnas Do Guincho

youll-want-to-visit-cascais-in-portugal/">Cascais offers more than just its historic center and downtown area. Heading up the wild western coastline, you’ll encounter beautiful hotels, historical lighthouses, and gorgeous views of the rocky coast. There are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the beaches or grab a snack. But for a special dining experience with spectacular views, we love the picturesque Furnas do Guincho. White linen tablecloths and attentive service punctuate the elevated menu and fabulous views. Meat and seafood are given equally upscale treatment. Fish lovers will find it hard to resist the fresh-caught selections served with flair. Meat lovers will enjoy top-notch choices like chateaubriand and filet mignon.

Watching the sunset from the terrace while sipping a cocktail or a glass of wine is the perfect way to celebrate just being alive. Enjoy the showy presentation of a large fish baked in a salted crust or taste local seafood stew with enough for two and feel the glow from outside and within. It’s a little on the pricey side but worth the splurge. But, if you’re watching your budget, it’s the perfect spot to go for a drink, have an appetizer, and still enjoy the wonderful view.

7. Local

Local is one of those places that make eating healthy foods look and taste like something special. Their focus is on taking fresh, high-quality, and nutritional ingredients and turning them into meals that taste like a treat. We love the approach that feels fun and colorful on your plate. Vegans will find a lot to love here, but you don’t have to be vegan to get a great dish here. We had both falafel and octopus dishes for lunch and each plate was just as inviting and satisfying as the other. They offer diverse and global flavors like poke bowls and turmeric chicken with couscous.

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The service is friendly and fun too. They don’t add preservatives or refined sugars to their foods, so what you get is naturally tasty. Devoted to working with local producers using sustainable practices, Local has a few locations including Cascais Mercado do Vila, all of which make seasonal eating of real food delicious. This is a place you can feel good about while you’re there and after you’re done because you know they’re doing their part to be custodians of our planet.

8. Bullguer

When you just want to have a good burger, Cascais has got you covered. Among plenty of options, we pick Bullguer for its honest smash burger approach and really, really good prices. Located in the heart of the downtown square, Bullguer is rather new to Portugal. The concept comes from a phenomenal success in Brazil where it started in 2015 and now has 30 stores. Cascais is the first location in Portugal, but we’re sure there will be others. The burgers are Angus beef, fresh never frozen. Add yummy brioche buns and crinkle fries – yes, we said crinkle! – which you can even get topped with cheese, and we’re in hamburger heaven. Various options include bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a variety of sauces. They also have hot dogs, and veggie and fish burgers too.

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Inspired by the Shake Shack smash burger concept in the U.S., three young entrepreneurs started Bullguer, which is now selling about 3 million burgers a year. It’s not a fancy place and is surrounded by the bustling action of Cascais downtown. But if you want a satisfying burger that doesn’t disappoint, get one at Bullguer.

9. Marisco Na Praça

For the real seafood lover in you, check out Marisco Na Praça inside the Cascais Mercado da Vila. You can order some items off of the menu, but for the best fresh seafood there is, go to the display to look at what they have on view and order what you like. There are so many different types of shrimp, clams, and other shellfish, and for a special treat, slipper lobsters are only found right in Cascais Bay. Then you tell them how you want your catch cooked – steamed, grilled, sautéed in garlic and olive oil, whatever you want. Your wish is their command. Go back to your table and enjoy some delicious sparkling sangria, have a starter, and just kick back. Or stick around and watch the talented chefs prepare your dishes.

You can dine inside or on the patio aside the main floor of the mercado. Either way, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that remind you of why fresh seafood is so amazing. This is the place we learned that the beef sandwich called a prego is the preferred dessert of locals. Something about the simple bread and meat combination provides a sinfully satisfying finish to a seafood meal. If you’re looking for more of a seaside view Marisco Na Praça also has a location at the Cascais marina.

10. El Clandestino

The new kid on t

he block El Clandestino is a fresh concept that combines Peruvian flavors with Asian influences and integrates some local twists. Peruvian classics like ceviche and lombo make their way onto the menu. That’s no surprise as Peruvian chef Teófilo Quiñones worked in a Michelin restaurant in Lima. He decided to unite with his family in Portugal and bring big, bold flavors to his sparkling new culinary home. The fusion-y menu includes osso buco and salmon bao, Vietnamese crepes, mushroom risotto, and dijon chicken, just to name a few of the soul-satisfying dishes. There are also some great drinks, not the least of which is the Peruvian pisco sour.

The place has a fun and funky vibe, from the very cool backlit cityscape art piece to the long bar and outdoor seating. Music adds to the lively atmosphere with a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights until the wee hours. For something unique both on the plate and in the air, we love the positive vibes and creativity flowing at this smile-making spot.

Pro Tip:

If you have a sweet tooth, stop by Sacolinha or Bijou for delicious bakery treats. Try the Jesuita, Noz, or Areias, all specialties of Cascais.

While we continue exploring the best restaurants in Cascais, we know that these spots are already ones we visit regularly and recommend to friends. We’d love to hear how you like them and others you discover when visiting Cascais Portugal.

11. Moules & Gin

If you’re a fan of mussels, then you will be delighted with Moules & Gin, which as the name says, has lots of mussels. With so many variations in substantial portions, take your mussel-loving friends with you, share a few different choices, and have a feast. Of course, it doesn’t hurt if you’re a gin lover too. Tasty gin & tonics and creative cocktails featuring the botanical brew ensure that gin shares the spotlight with mussels in an oh-so-perfect combination. The moules or mussels are prepared in various sauces like classic French meuiniére, Thai, pesto, Mediterranean, beer, mustard, and more.

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If you’re not into mussels, don’t worry. There are excellent beef options too. The crispy fries the perfect and worthy accompaniment. Enjoy a winning combination (or two) in a cozy place where the personable staff makes it easy to settle in and linger over a great meal. Be sure you bring cash or a Portuguese credit card as they don’t take anything else. Reservations are recommended too.

12. Café Galeria House Of Wonders

Vegetarians will find their pot of gold at the end of the eating rainbow that leads to Café Galeria House of Wonders. This colorful, easy, breezy spot is so inviting that non-vegetarians cluster here too. There is a gardeny terrace out front and one with a smidge of ocean view on the roof. In between are levels of the cheeriest of Cascais restaurants full of fresh fruits on display and quirky artwork popping up everywhere. The menu is visual too. You don’t get it on a piece of paper. Instead, you walk inside and see a veritable cornucopia of offerings right before your eyes. The person in charge explains to you what each dish is and all of its ingredients, what sides it comes with, and helps with any alterations or recommendations you may wish. You place your order then go back to relax in your cozy spot and wait for the magic to come to you.

It’s even more fun to hang out if you do so with some of their fresh fruit juice combinations or a unique and tasty sangria. The creative dishes range from vegetable-stuffed tarts, veggie burgers, and shakshuka, to Buddha bowls, curries, wraps, and more. The bohemian vibe encourages you to slow down and relax a while. Many of the dishes can be easily made vegan, and the staff seems to be having as much fun working there as you are dining. Go when the sun is out and there’s a breeze. But be sure to get there before the crowds kick in, as they always do. When you’re done, stroll around the fun ceramics shop on the bottom side of the building and get inspired with beautiful things to take back to your kitchen.

13. Mana

A newcomer just off the ye

llow street in downtown Cascais, Mana is a spot we want to keep going back to time and again. Its fun, lively vibe, and great location make this the perfect spot for just about any time of day.

We love the Mediterranean influences on the menu and the wide and tasty choices. The wait staff go above and beyond to make sure your experience is one you will likely not soon forget. You will feel like a welcomed guest at a close friend’s home celebrating with delicious food and drinks.

From the handcrafted cocktails to the unique dishes every experience is done to perfection. We sampled many dishes and each was better than the next. The roasted cauliflower with caramelized carrots and beetroot hummus was one of the memorable starters.

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Mana Cauliflower with caramelized carrots and beetroot hummus.

Their pinsa “better than pizza” is a Meditterean flatbread with very unique toppings. We absolutely loved that flatbread. This is a place with a wide variety of dishes including pasta, risotto, salads, burgers, and much more.

Don’t leave without checking out their dessert menu. The mousse de chocolate with raspberries vanished pretty quickly at our table.

14. Taberna Clandestina
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Sometimes you just want to be in the thick of things. The “Yellow Street,” so known for its yellow-painted pavement punctuated with colorful fish and other bright images, is a central hub for dining in Cascais. When the weather is good, you hardly notice the painted street because it is covered end to end with people happily enjoying their outdoor tables in the middle of the pedestrian-only street. One of our favorite spots in the midst of all this merriment is Taberna Clandestina. Great for either lunch or dinner, the varied menu is conducive to dining, drinking, and chatting the time away with friends.

The menu is varied, with Portuguese and Italian influences. Focaccia, bruschetta, and burrata cheese make a great place to start. They also offer a variety of salads with fresh ingredients and interesting combinations. But what has us hooked are the platters offering charcuterie, cheese, fruit, and accompaniments in a variety of combinations, great for sharing around the table. Paired with an excellent gin and tonic, some lively sangria, or local beer or wine, this makes for the perfect meal to nibble while sharing stories and ideas among friends, old and new. It does take a short but steep climb to get to the yellow street, so wear comfy shoes and take your time if you plan to walk to it. Once you arrive, treat yourself to whatever looks good, and don’t be afraid to start a conversation with other diners. This is one of the best Cascais restaurants where people love to share their good mood.

15. Baia do Peixe

When friends and

family come to visit us in Cascais one place we like to share with them is Baia do Peixe. The food is always perfect and the setting is exquisite. You dine overlooking the Cascais Bay so the view is breathtaking. We’ve yet to take anyone here who doesn’t fall in love with the food and wants to instantly move to Cascais.

Baia do Peixe serves seafood in a Brazilian rodizio style. This means you basically can have all you can eat. The platters of seafood that come out of the kitchen are awe-inspiring. Of course, you can order a la carte too, which is typically what we do. The seafood is fresh and abundant. They also have a good local wine selection to pair with your meal. The staff is very friendly and attentive they make sure you have a wonderful time.

That’s just a few of our favorites in our new hometown of Cascais. Many new restaurants are opening all the time so stay tuned for our take on more places to eat in the area.

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