Best Italian Restaurants in Cascais
Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars
Cascais has quietly become one of Portugal's most exciting destinations for authentic Italian cuisine, where sun-soaked coastal charm meets the passion of Italian culinary traditions. This picturesque seaside town attracts talented Italian chefs who bring genuine recipes from their homeland, creating an unexpectedly vibrant Italian food scene that rivals anything you'd find in Lisbon. From family-run trattorias serving handmade pasta with recipes passed down through generations to innovative pizzerias using wood-fired ovens and imported ingredients, Cascais offers Italian dining experiences that feel both authentic and refreshingly creative.
This guide showcases 10 exceptional Italian restaurants that have earned their stripes with consistently outstanding food and service, each boasting ratings of 4.5 stars or higher from thousands of satisfied diners. You'll discover hidden gems like intimate pasta workshops where every strand is rolled fresh daily, bustling pizzerias where the dough is made using traditional Neapolitan techniques, and elegant establishments that elevate classic Italian dishes with Portuguese coastal influences. Whether you're craving a perfect margherita pizza, silky cacio e pepe, or innovative Italian fusion, these carefully selected spots represent the very best of Cascais's thriving Italian culinary landscape.
Featured Restaurants
Taberna Clandestina Cascais
This intimate bar tucked away on a quiet Cascais street lives up to its "clandestine" name with a cozy, speakeasy-like atmosphere that locals and travelers adore. With nearly 3,200 glowing reviews, guests consistently praise the expertly crafted cocktails, welcoming service, and authentic Portuguese bar culture that makes you feel like you've discovered a hidden gem. Arrive early in the evening to snag a spot at this popular local favorite, as the intimate setting fills up quickly with those in the know.
De Benedictis - Gastronomia Italiana
This beloved Italian gastronomia in Cascais has earned a stellar reputation among locals and travelers alike, with nearly 2,500 glowing reviews praising its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere. The high rating speaks to consistently excellent food and service that keeps customers coming back for genuine Italian specialties in a cozy, neighborhood setting. Arrive early during peak dining hours to secure a table at this popular spot that clearly delivers on both quality and value.
Italian Republic Cascais
Located in Cascais' Auchan shopping center, Italian Republic has earned an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 1,300 diners who consistently praise its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu offerings. This popular spot draws both locals and tourists with its reliable quality and convenient location, making it a go-to choice for satisfying meals while exploring the coastal town. Arrive early during peak tourist season to secure a table, as the stellar reputation means it fills up quickly.
Pizzeria Il Siciliano
This beloved Cascais gem has won over locals and travelers alike with its authentic atmosphere and consistently excellent food, earning an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 1,300 diners. The enthusiastic reviews speak to both the quality of their dishes and the warm, welcoming service that keeps people coming back. Book ahead or arrive early, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially during peak dining hours when the cozy space buzzes with satisfied customers.
Aqafarina Cascais
This beloved Cascais bakery has earned a stellar reputation among locals and visitors alike, with over 1,200 glowing reviews praising its fresh baked goods and welcoming atmosphere. Tucked away on a charming side street near Largo Cidade de Vitória, Aqafarina offers that authentic Portuguese bakery experience that keeps travelers coming back for more. Visit early in the morning for the best selection of freshly baked pastries and breads when the display cases are at their fullest.
Lamassa Fresh Handmade Pasta
This beloved Estoril gem specializes in fresh, handmade pasta that has earned rave reviews from nearly 800 diners who appreciate authentic Italian craftsmanship at reasonable prices. The consistently high ratings suggest exceptional quality and service that keeps both locals and travelers coming back for more. Book ahead or arrive early, as popular spots like this in the charming seaside town of Estoril tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak dining hours.
Gigino e Gigetto
This beloved Cascais gem has earned an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 500 diners who rave about its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu offerings that cater to various tastes. The restaurant's consistently high ratings suggest both locals and travelers appreciate the quality food and friendly service that keeps people coming back. With its varied cuisine options, it's perfect for groups with different preferences, though booking ahead is wise given its popularity in this charming Portuguese coastal town.
Culinary Experiences in Cascais
Discover food tours, cooking classes, and unique dining experiences