Restaurante Azenhas do Mar sits on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, in the small village of the same name just outside Sintra. The setting alone makes a meal here feel special. Built right into the cliffside, the restaurant offers panoramic ocean views from almost every table, with the famous white-and-blue village cascading down towards the water.
The interior is spread across several levels, with wooden finishes and large windows. There is a distinct feeling of being on a ship: the sound of the waves, the salty sea breeze and the gently swaying lanterns create a cosy, almost homey atmosphere, despite the restaurant’s popularity with tourists.
The menu focuses on fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes: charcoal-grilled octopus, crab meat, ceviche, rich fish soup, cataplana and cod. Portions are generous and the fish is fresh, although prices are above average — around €70–90 per kilo for fresh fish. The €65 cataplana — a hearty combination of fish, seafood and sweet potato — is easily enough for three people. Oysters are €3 each. Service is generally friendly and attentive, although things can slow down during peak hours.
If you want to escape the city on a hot day, this is a particularly good option. The restaurant is right above the beach, where you can take a swim among the rocks before or after lunch.
Come for the ocean views, stay for the sunset and fresh fish — it is definitely worth the trip.
