Fortaleza do Guincho
Cascais, Portugal
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
In the heart of the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais, this 17C fortification, now converted into a hotel, recalls its military past thanks to the two large cannons at the entrance. The setting is enhanced by the views of the ocean and of Cabo da Rocha, the most westerly point on mainland Europe.In the elegant panoramic restaurant, chef Gil Fernandes’s menus (Memórias: Degustação and Experiência, with the option of ordering single dishes) showcase the property’s maritime inspiration through his reinterpretation of innovative dishes that have a strong focus on aesthetics and locally sourced ingredients. Head here in good time for dinner, as it’s very pleasant watching dusk fall from the tables by the windows... and there’s only enough space for early birds!
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Historic 17th Century Fortification Setting
Fortaleza do Guincho is uniquely housed in a 17th-century fortification, preserving its ancient defensive fortress character with large cannons at the entrance, blending history with luxury hospitality.Location at One of Europe's Most Westerly Points with Ocean Cliff Views
The restaurant and hotel sit atop a cliff between two sandy beaches, Praia do Guincho and Praia da Crismina, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.Cuisine Inspired by the Atlantic with a Focus on Portuguese Traditions and Local Products
The Michelin-starred restaurant emphasizes Portuguese products and traditions, particularly seafood from the Portuguese coast, with innovative dishes that reinterpret maritime inspiration through aesthetic presentation and local sourcing.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred Fortaleza do Guincho in Cascais reflect its strong connection to the Atlantic and Portuguese coastal traditions:
Fresh fish and seafood from the Portuguese coast: These are the cornerstone of the menu, showcasing the best local catch and maritime flavors, often featured in innovative and aesthetically refined dishes.
Seaweed varieties such as sea lettuce, codium, and fucus vesiculosus: These ingredients emphasize the oceanic inspiration of the cuisine, adding unique textures and umami notes to dishes, highlighting the restaurant’s creative use of marine flora.
Carabineiro (a type of large prawn): Used in signature dishes like “Do Algarve,” combined with regional vegetables and spices such as turmeric, this ingredient reflects the Algarve region’s bounty and the chef’s skill in blending tradition with modern techniques.
Red mullet (Salmonete): Often paired with kale, potato, and cuttlefish, this fish is a celebrated local species that embodies the restaurant’s commitment to Portuguese flavors and seasonal products.
These ingredients are significant as they represent the restaurant’s philosophy of combining classic French culinary techniques with Portuguese products, focusing on seasonality, quality, and the Atlantic’s influence on the gastronomy. Chef Gil Fernandes uses them to create dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in local tradition.