Cascais Craft Beer Scene: A Local’s Guide to the Best Brews and Bites

Cascais Craft Beer: More Than Just Sun and Sea

Ah, Cascais. The name itself evokes images of sun-drenched beaches, charming cobblestone streets, and the gentle rhythm of Atlantic waves. For many, it’s a quintessential Portuguese seaside escape. But as a local who’s spent countless evenings exploring its nooks and crannies, I can tell you there’s a vibrant, burgeoning craft beer scene here that’s just as captivating as its coastline. Forget what you think you know about Portuguese beer; Cascais is embracing the craft revolution with open arms, offering a delightful array of local breweries, specialized bars, and even food pairings that will tantalize your taste buds.

For years, the beer landscape in Portugal was dominated by a few large industrial lagers. But thankfully, the winds of change have blown in, bringing with them a wave of innovation and passion for craft brewing. Cascais, with its cosmopolitan vibe and growing foodie culture, has become a fertile ground for this movement. So, whether you’re a seasoned hophead or a curious newcomer, join me as we dive deep into the heart of Cascais’ craft beer scene. We’ll explore the best places to find these artisanal brews, uncover some hidden gems, and share tips on how to truly savour the experience.

Where to Find Cascais’ Craft Beer Gems

While Cascais might not have the sheer volume of craft beer bars you’d find in Lisbon, the quality and passion behind the offerings here are exceptional. The focus is often on curated selections, showcasing both Portuguese craft breweries and a thoughtful import list. Here are my go-to spots and some places you absolutely shouldn’t miss:

Specialty Beer Bars and Cafes

These are the havens for craft beer enthusiasts in Cascais. They’re the places where the bartenders know their IPAs from their Stouts, and where you can expect a rotating selection of exciting new brews.

The English Bar (Rua Marques de Pombal, 17): While its name suggests a traditional pub, The English Bar has surprised many with its ever-evolving craft beer selection. They often feature a few taps dedicated to craft brews, including some excellent Portuguese options. It’s a great place to start your evening, with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff who are happy to offer recommendations. Their location is central, making it easily accessible from most parts of the town center.
Wizards Beer Bar (Rua da Palmeira, 10): This place is a true gem for craft beer lovers. Wizards boasts an impressive array of craft beers on tap and a vast bottle selection. They pride themselves on bringing unique and hard-to-find brews to Cascais, with a strong emphasis on Portuguese microbreweries. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, often buzzing with locals and tourists alike. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for their personal favorites – they’re incredibly knowledgeable. They also sometimes host tasting events, so keep an eye on their social media.
Cantinho da Vila (Rua Visconde da Luz, 14): Tucked away in a charming side street, this cozy spot offers a more intimate craft beer experience. While not exclusively a beer bar, Cantinho da Vila has a curated list of quality craft beers, often featuring some excellent Portuguese labels. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy a relaxed drink after exploring the historic center. The food menu is also worth exploring, with some great petiscos (Portuguese tapas) that pair wonderfully with beer.

Restaurants with Craft Beer Offerings

It’s not just dedicated beer bars that are embracing craft. Many of Cascais’s excellent restaurants are now thoughtfully pairing their menus with craft beer selections.

Mar do Inferno (Avenida Rei Humberto II de Itália, 3): This renowned seafood restaurant, perched on the cliffs with breathtaking ocean views, understands the importance of a good drink to complement its exquisite dishes. While their wine list is extensive, they also often feature a selection of premium craft beers, chosen to pair well with their fresh catch of the day. Imagine enjoying grilled sea bass with a crisp, refreshing Portuguese craft lager – pure bliss!
Restaurante Fortaleza do Guincho (Estrada do Guincho, 8): For a truly upscale experience, this Michelin-starred restaurant, located in a historic fort overlooking Guincho Beach, offers a sophisticated beverage program. While fine wine is paramount, they are increasingly recognizing the versatility of craft beer and may feature a select few exceptional brews that complement their innovative cuisine. It’s worth inquiring about their current beer offerings when making a reservation.

Local Breweries and Taprooms (A Little Further Afield, But Worth It!)

While Cascais itself is relatively small, the wider Lisbon metropolitan area is home to a growing number of breweries. Some of these are accessible for a day trip or can be found on tap in the bars mentioned above.

Lupum Craft Beer (Sintra): Just a short drive or train ride from Cascais, Lupum is a brewery I’ve come to admire. They produce a fantastic range of beers, from classic IPAs to experimental brews. If you’re visiting Sintra, this is a must-stop. Even if you’re staying in Cascais, keep an eye out for their beers on tap at local bars. You can often find their brews at places like Wizards Beer Bar.
Avenida Beer House (Lisbon): While not in Cascais, this is Lisbon’s premier craft beer destination with an enormous selection. If you’re taking a day trip to the capital, a stop at Avenida Beer House is essential for any serious craft beer fan. They often have many Portuguese craft beers on tap that might not yet have made their way to Cascais.

Exploring Portuguese Craft Beer: What to Look For

The Portuguese craft beer scene is diverse and exciting. When you’re in Cascais, be sure to try some of these styles and look out for these breweries:

Must-Try Portuguese Breweries

Marafada: Known for their creative and flavourful beers, Marafada is a brewery that consistently impresses.
Dois Corvos: One of the pioneers of Portuguese craft beer, Dois Corvos offers a solid range of well-crafted beers.
Bolina: With a focus on sessionable and refreshing beers, Bolina is a great choice for a sunny Cascais afternoon.
Cervejaria Praxis: Another excellent brewery producing a variety of styles with high quality.

Popular Beer Styles to Discover

India Pale Ale (IPA): You’ll find a wide range of IPAs, from classic West Coast styles to juicy New England IPAs. They pair wonderfully with grilled seafood and spicy dishes.
Lager: Don’t discount the humble lager! Portuguese craft lagers are often crisp, clean, and incredibly refreshing, perfect for the local climate. Look for Pilsners and Pale Lagers.
Sour Beers: As the craft scene matures, sour beers (Gose, Berliner Weisse) are becoming more common. Their tartness is a fantastic palate cleanser.
Stouts and Porters: While perhaps less common on tap in the warmer months, these darker, richer beers are perfect for cooler evenings and pair well with richer foods or desserts.

Beyond the Brew: Pairing Craft Beer with Cascais Flavors

One of the most enjoyable aspects of exploring craft beer is discovering how it can elevate food. Cascais offers a wealth of culinary delights, and pairing them with the right beer can transform a good meal into an unforgettable experience.

Seafood Sensations

Cascais is, of course, famous for its seafood. Crisp, dry craft beers are your best friend here.

Grilled Sardines or Mackerel: A classic Portuguese treat. Pair with a light, refreshing Portuguese Pale Lager or a session IPA. The slight bitterness cuts through the oiliness of the fish beautifully.
Bacalhau (Codfish): Whether it’s Bacalhau à Brás or Bacalhau com Natas, the richness of cod pairs surprisingly well with a slightly more complex beer. Try a Belgian-style Pale Ale or even a lighter Saison.
Mariscos (Shellfish): Oysters, clams, and mussels are divine. A dry, crisp Pilsner or a Gose with its subtle salinity can be an exceptional match.

Meat and Petiscos

For heartier fare or traditional Portuguese snacks:

Bifanas (Pork Sandwiches): The simple, delicious bifana calls for something equally straightforward but flavourful. A well-balanced Pale Ale or even a classic Amber Ale works wonders.
Chouriço or Presunto (Sausage/Ham): The salty, spicy notes of cured meats are fantastic with Amber Ales or even a bolder IPA if you like a stronger contrast.
Cheese Boards: If your bar or restaurant offers a selection of Portuguese cheeses, a Saison or a more robust Porter can be excellent accompaniments, depending on the cheese.

Insider Tips for the Cascais Beer Explorer

As a local, I’ve picked up a few tricks that can help you navigate and enjoy the Cascais craft beer scene even more:

Check Tap Lists Online: Many of the better bars, like Wizards Beer Bar, update their tap lists on social media or dedicated apps like Untappd. This is a great way to see what’s new before you go.
Embrace Portuguese Breweries: While it’s tempting to seek out familiar international brands, make a point of trying as many Portuguese craft beers as possible. The quality is high, and it’s a fantastic way to support local industry. You can often find a great selection and learn more about them at dropt.beer, which also offers insights into the brewing world.
Ask for Recommendations: Bartenders at specialty beer bars are usually passionate about their products. Don’t be shy! Tell them what you usually like, or ask for something local and adventurous. They’re usually delighted to guide you.
Consider a Tasting Flight: If you’re unsure what to try, many bars offer tasting flights (four or five small pours). This is the perfect way to sample a variety of styles and breweries without committing to a full pint.
Combine with Local Exploration: Don’t just drink beer! Use your craft beer discoveries as a starting point for exploring different neighbourhoods. A great beer at Cantinho da Vila might lead you to discover the charm of the Vila do Conde area.
Look for Specials and Events: Keep an eye out for brewery takeovers, tasting events, or happy hour specials. These are great opportunities to discover new beers and meet fellow enthusiasts. For more on the craft beer scene and news, the dropt.beer insights and news blog is an excellent resource.
Shopping for Beer to Go: If you find a beer you love and want to enjoy it back at your accommodation or on the beach (responsibly, of course!), check out specialized bottle shops or even some well-stocked supermarkets. For a wide selection and the ability to purchase online for delivery in Portugal, dropt.beer’s shop is an invaluable resource.

The Future of Craft Beer in Cascais

The craft beer movement in Cascais is still relatively young but incredibly dynamic. We’re seeing more bars dedicated to craft, more restaurants featuring better selections, and a growing appreciation from locals and visitors alike. The passion of the brewers and the enthusiasm of the bar owners are infectious. It’s an exciting time to be a craft beer drinker here, and I’m confident that we’ll see even more innovation and delicious brews emerging from this beautiful coastal town and its surroundings.

So, next time you find yourself in Cascais, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze, remember to venture beyond the traditional and explore the burgeoning craft beer scene. You might just discover your new favorite pint, perfectly paired with the unique charm and flavors of this Portuguese paradise. Cheers!