What should I order at Casinha do Petisco?
Casinha do Petisco
Cataplana Mista (mixed prawn & clams)
This is the star dish repeatedly praised for its incredible, rich garlicky and creamy broth packed with generous portions of seafood like shrimp, clams, and fish. Reviewers highlight its outstanding flavor, large size suitable for sharing, and mention it as the best dish they had in Portugal, making it a must-try.
Grilled fish
Recommended for being perfectly cooked and full of flavor, it is mentioned as a great alternative to the Cataplana for those who want something different but still authentic and delicious.
Home style prawns (also called 'crack prawns')
Highly recommended for their deliciousness, described as 'horrendously delicious' and capable of spoiling one's taste for other prawns, indicating an exceptional preparation that guests rave about.
Prosciutto with melon
Mentioned as a sweet and delicious starter that sets a great tone for the meal, noted for its balance and freshness.
Vegetable soup with chorizo
Praised as a great starter option, combining hearty vegetables with flavorful chorizo, offering a unique and tasty beginning to the meal.
Hours
| Monday | 5:30 to 10:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5:30 to 10:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 5:30 to 10:30 PM |
| Thursday | 5:30 to 10:30 PM |
| Friday | 5:30 to 10:30 PM |
| Saturday | 5:30 to 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About Casinha do Petisco
Petite eatery with a local menu featuring cataplana, seafood & meat plates, plus a robust wine list.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Onsite services
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Cash-only
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is Casinha do Petisco known for?
Its standout dish is cataplana, especially versions with shrimp, clams, fish, and sometimes pork in a rich garlicky or creamy broth. Reviewers repeatedly call it the must-order item and say the portions are generous, which helps explain why people are willing to wait for a table.
What dishes are most recommended at Casinha do Petisco?
The most recommended dishes are cataplana, prawn and clam cataplana, grilled fish, shrimp pasta, and the Portuguese-style sirloin steak. Reviewers also mention homemade desserts and a vege soup with chorizo, but the seafood dishes get the strongest praise for flavor and sauce.
What is the atmosphere like at Casinha do Petisco?
The atmosphere is casual and cozy, with a tiny dining room and a lively, busy feel during dinner service. Reviewers describe it as family-run and warm, which suits solo diners, couples, and small groups who do not mind a crowded, energetic setting.
Is Casinha do Petisco good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is about €20–25, and reviewers often call it affordable for the portion size and quality. Many say the cataplana is large enough to share and that the meal feels worth the wait, especially for the seafood and house-made desserts.
How long is the wait at Casinha do Petisco, and when should you go?
Wait times are a major part of the experience, with reviews mentioning lines that can start before opening and waits of 30 minutes to over an hour, sometimes around 2 hours when fully seated. Arriving early, putting your name down, or making a reservation is the best way to get in, especially for dinner in Lagos old town.
Is parking available at Casinha do Petisco?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Restaurants like Casinha do Petisco in Lagos
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