Sintra may be known for its palaces and stunning natural landscapes, but as I discovered, it’s also a paradise for food lovers. This charming Portuguese town boasts a wide range of flavors, from traditional bakeries tucked into narrow streets to gourmet restaurants overlooking lush gardens. Here’s a guide to the most memorable culinary stops in Sintra – the ones that left me craving more long after my trip ended.
1. Casa Piriquita: Traditional Sweets and a Sintra Staple
My journey into Sintra’s food scene began with a visit to Casa Piriquita, a bakery that has been around since the 19th century. Located near the heart of Sintra’s historic center, this family-run spot is famous for its sweet treats, particularly the travesseiros – flaky puff pastries filled with almond cream.
- Getting There: Casa Piriquita is just a short walk from the National Palace of Sintra. The charming street is easy to spot with a steady line of locals and tourists waiting to get their hands on the famous pastries.
- What to Order: The travesseiros here are a must, and I recommend pairing them with a queijada, a smaller pastry made with cheese, sugar, and cinnamon. Both treats are sweet, rich, and utterly addictive.
- My Experience: I took my pastries to a bench nearby, savoring every flaky bite. The almond filling was smooth and had just the right level of sweetness, while the buttery layers melted in my mouth. It’s no wonder Casa Piriquita has been a beloved institution in Sintra for generations.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Casa Piriquita’s pastries are a Sintra rite of passage, and no foodie trip to the town would be complete without them.
2. Cantinho Gourmet: A Cozy Spot for Local Flavors
Next, I headed to Cantinho Gourmet, a charming, family-owned restaurant that feels like dining in a friend’s home. Located a bit away from the tourist-heavy areas, this gem specializes in Portuguese comfort food, with everything from hearty stews to fresh seafood.
- Getting There: Cantinho Gourmet is tucked into a quiet side street, just a short walk from the main square. It’s small and unassuming, but the welcoming vibe is hard to miss.
- What to Order: The Bacalhau à Brás, a traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded codfish, potatoes, and eggs, was my favorite. I also tried the Caldo Verde, a classic green soup with potatoes and chorizo.
- My Experience: The Bacalhau à Brás was the perfect mix of savory and comforting, with the saltiness of the cod perfectly balanced by the creamy texture of the eggs and potatoes. Every bite felt like a warm hug. The Caldo Verde was equally delightful, with the smoky flavor of chorizo adding depth to the simple soup. It was the kind of meal that reminded me of why I fell in love with Portuguese cuisine in the first place.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cantinho Gourmet is perfect if you’re looking for a cozy, no-fuss spot that serves up heartwarming Portuguese dishes with a personal touch.
3. Tascantiga: Tapas with a View
For something a bit different, I made my way to Tascantiga, a tapas-style eatery that combines Spanish influences with Portuguese flavors. With outdoor seating overlooking Sintra’s cobblestone streets, Tascantiga is a perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy small bites with a cold drink.
- Getting There: Located near the Moorish Castle, it’s easy to find and offers a convenient spot to rest after sightseeing.
- What to Order: The octopus salad was a standout here, with tender pieces of octopus marinated in olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. I also tried the pimentos padrón (small green peppers), which had a delightful char and a surprising hint of sweetness.
- My Experience: I ordered a few dishes to share, and it turned out to be a delicious decision. The octopus was perfectly cooked – tender, flavorful, and fresh. The pimentos padrón added a smoky flavor that paired well with the light saltiness of the tapas dishes. Sitting outside, watching the afternoon pass by, and enjoying these plates felt like a true vacation moment.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tascantiga is an ideal stop for those who want a relaxed, scenic meal while enjoying flavorful, tapas-style bites.
4. A Raposa: Fine Dining in a Historic Setting
For a more refined dining experience, I made reservations at A Raposa, a fine-dining restaurant known for its creative takes on Portuguese cuisine. Located inside a historic building, the restaurant’s interiors are elegant yet welcoming, with a rustic charm that matches Sintra’s atmosphere.
- Getting There: A Raposa is located near the National Palace, making it easy to find if you’re exploring Sintra’s main attractions.
- What to Order: I opted for the tasting menu, which allowed me to try several signature dishes. Highlights included the porco preto (Iberian black pork) with mashed sweet potatoes and a dessert of orange-flavored pudim.
- My Experience: Each course was presented beautifully, and the flavors were exceptional. The porco preto was cooked to perfection, with a tender texture and a hint of smokiness. The sweet potato mash added a lovely sweetness that balanced the rich flavors of the pork. Dessert was equally delightful – the pudim had a silky texture, with a hint of citrus that made it feel refreshing.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Raposa is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the finer side of Portuguese cuisine in a charming, historic setting.
5. Café Saudade: Brunch and Beyond
On my last morning in Sintra, I stopped by Café Saudade for brunch. Known for its homey atmosphere and friendly service, Café Saudade offers a mix of Portuguese and international breakfast options, perfect for a leisurely start to the day.
- Getting There: Café Saudade is located close to Sintra’s train station, making it an ideal spot to grab breakfast if you’re arriving early or departing.
- What to Order: I couldn’t resist the tosta mista (ham and cheese toast) with freshly squeezed orange juice. I also tried a slice of their chocolate cake, which came highly recommended.
- My Experience: The tosta mista was simple but delicious, with perfectly toasted bread and gooey melted cheese. The chocolate cake was decadent, with a rich, velvety texture that satisfied my sweet tooth. The cozy decor, complete with mismatched furniture and vintage art, made me feel right at home.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Café Saudade is the perfect spot to unwind, recharge, and enjoy a laid-back brunch in a delightful setting.
6. Taberna Criativa: Modern Twists on Portuguese Classics
On my final evening, I tried Taberna Criativa, a restaurant known for its innovative take on Portuguese classics. The menu here features seasonal ingredients and creative presentations, making it an exciting culinary adventure.
- Getting There: The restaurant is located near the outskirts of town, so I took a short taxi ride to reach it.
- What to Order: I ordered the Duck Rice, a traditional dish with a modern twist, and the Chouriço with roasted chestnuts.
- My Experience: The Duck Rice was tender and packed with flavor, served with a slightly crispy crust on top. The chouriço was smoky and rich, with the chestnuts adding a unique sweetness to the dish. Every bite felt like a celebration of Portuguese flavors with a fresh twist.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Taberna Criativa is a must for food lovers looking for an inventive take on Portuguese cuisine.
Sintra’s culinary scene is as diverse and delightful as its landscapes. From traditional bakeries to fine dining restaurants, each eatery I visited left me with a new appreciation for Portugal’s culinary heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Sintra, make sure to set aside time to indulge in these unforgettable dining experiences – they’re worth every bite!
