- Mastery on the grill. Their octopus tentacles are slow-braised, then finished over red-hot charcoal so they’re fork-tender inside yet smoky on the edges. Squid (lulas) get the same kiss-of-fire treatment and arrive drizzled with garlicky azeite. Fellow expats rave it’s the only place that “really knows how to cook” both creatures .
- Atlantic theatre. Perched on the cliffs just north of Cascais centre, windows frame crashing waves—ask for a seaside table when you reserve .
- English-friendly team. Staff are used to internationals; if you stumble over “polvo” or “lulas,” just point to the seafood display.
- Kid-approved & group-friendly. Relaxed enough for little ones .
How to get the most from your meal
| Tip | Insider details for Cascais newcomers |
|---|---|
| Book ahead | Call or WhatsApp a day or two out—sunset tables disappear fast. |
| Time it right | Lunch from 12:30 – 15:00 is quieter; dinner seatings start 19:00. |
| Order like a pro | Share one grilled octopus platter and one squid—Portuguese portions easily feed two. |
| Pairing | Ask for a chilled bottle of Vinho Verde Alvarinho; the light acidity cuts the olive-oil richness. |
| Parking hack | Use the small cliff-top lot opposite the entrance; if full, underground parking at Marechal Carmona park is a 7-minute walk. |
Moving to Cascais? Add these to your “try next” list
While Mar do Inferno headlines octopus & squid, other seafood shrines frequently mentioned by expats include Furnas do Guincho, Porto Santa Maria and Monte Mar . Bookmark them for future date nights along the N247 coastal road.