Cascais is a delightful seaside town known for its stunning beaches, lively marina, and charming streets. But beyond its scenic views, Cascais offers some truly memorable dining experiences that go beyond simply eating out. We especially love the private Portuguese home dinner or tapas experience — it’s authentic, personal, and immerses you in local culture. Imagine sharing a meal in a local’s living room, learning the stories behind each dish, and pairing it with regional wines. That’s what makes this experience stand out and why it tops our list of the best dining opportunities in Cascais.
While Cascais itself is the highlight, some visitors also enjoy combining their stay with nearby Lisbon. For example, the Golf Adventure with Coach, Transfers & Dining Concierge offers a different kind of taste — a day on scenic golf courses with expert coaching and top restaurant recommendations. This mix of culinary and leisure activities makes Cascais a versatile destination for food lovers and active travelers alike.
Below, we’ve outlined two unique tours that showcase the best of local cuisine and leisure. Whether you’re searching for an intimate dinner or a golfing day combined with fine dining, these options give you a taste of what Portugal has to offer.
1. DINNER OR TAPAS in a Portuguese Home
At number one, the Dinner or Tapas in a Portuguese Home offers a chance to experience Portugal in a deeply personal way. For around $112.75 per person, you step into a local residence in Cascais, where your private host welcomes you into their home and shares the essence of Portuguese cuisine. The experience lasts about 2.5 hours and can be tailored as a dinner or tapas, depending on your preference.
What makes this tour special is both the setting and the interaction. You’ll learn about the flavors and stories behind each dish directly from your host, often a family or a local chef. The meal is paired with regional wines, making it a complete sensory experience. Many reviewers praise the warm hospitality, with comments like, “Teresa, George, and Marco were truly amazing,” highlighting the personalized attention that turns a meal into a memorable event. The proximity near Guincho Beach adds a scenic backdrop, making it perfect after a day exploring the coast.
This experience is ideal for travelers craving authenticity and a chance to connect with locals over outstanding food. It’s especially good for anyone interested in Portuguese culture, wine, and home-cooked meals in a cozy setting. The main downside? Because it’s private and intimate, spots can fill quickly, so booking early is wise.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an authentic, personal taste of Portugal’s culinary tradition, perfect for those wanting a genuine local experience in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
2. Lis: Golf Adventure with Coach, Transfers & Dining Concierge
Second on our list, the Golf Adventure with Coach, Transfers & Dining Concierge is a perfect fit if you’re combining your love of golf with fine dining. For about $325 per person, this six-hour tour includes a private driver, expert golf coaching, and a curated dining experience after your round.
The day begins with pickup from Lisbon, followed by a 45-minute drive to the stunning Quinta da Marinha golf course. Here, you’ll spend about two hours on lush greens, with the chance to improve your swing under the guidance of a professional golf coach. The course offers impressive ocean views, adding to the enjoyment. Afterward, the day continues with a transfer back to Lisbon, but not before enjoying a top restaurant recommendation from your dining concierge. This makes for a seamless blend of sport and cuisine.
Guests have raved about the experience, with one reviewer noting, “It was a wonderful day on green golf courses with a professional trainer, and lunch at a recommended restaurant.” While this tour is more expensive, it offers a full-day, high-quality experience suited for golf enthusiasts who also want access to excellent local dining.
Bottom Line: This is a great choice for active travelers who want to combine their love of golf with expert coaching and personalized restaurant recommendations, all in an oceanfront setting.
How to Choose the Best Dining Experience in Cascais
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and how much time you want to dedicate to food. If immersive, authentic local culture appeals to you, the Dinner or Tapas in a Portuguese Home is hard to beat. It’s perfect for travelers seeking genuine connection and home-cooked flavors.
If you prefer a combination of leisure and gourmet dining, especially alongside a scenic golf outing, then the Golf Adventure with Coach, Transfers & Dining Concierge offers a rich, active day with excellent culinary suggestions. This tour suits active travelers or those looking for a full-day luxury experience.
Budget-wise, the home dinner is more accessible, while the golf adventure provides a more upscale, all-inclusive day out. Booking early for the home dinner ensures availability during peak seasons, and the golf tour should also be reserved in advance to secure preferred tee times.
Final Thoughts
Cascais offers a diverse range of dining experiences that can be tailored to different interests and budgets. For an authentic taste of Portuguese life, the private home dinner wins hands down. But if you’re seeking a combination of sport, sightseeing, and gourmet dining, the golf adventure is a memorable way to spend a day in style.
Both options provide a chance to enjoy Portugal’s warm hospitality and delicious flavors, making your trip more than just a visit — it becomes a genuine cultural experience. We recommend booking early, especially during peak season, to secure your spot in these popular tours. Whether you’re a foodie, a golf enthusiast, or just curious about local life, Cascais has something special waiting for you.
