It was in early 2023 that Cascais' yellow street (specifically Afonso Sanches Street) gained a seafood bar named Sr. Manuel, in homage to the typical Portuguese grocery store that once occupied that space. Nearly a year and a half later, this modern brewery has a new look and a new menu — gradually introduced over the past few weeks, also designed by the renowned chef Miguel Laffan, already distinguished with a Michelin star.
The foundation remains the same — seafood and brewery dishes with sophistication — but there are new flavors and textures to savor at the table. Such as the crunchy breaded shrimp in panko with basil mayonnaise (12€), spinach and ricotta croquettes (8€, for three units), braised veal croquettes (5€, for three units) or the impressive lobster hot dogs (22€).
The big news in the main course league includes grilled Peniche squid with olive oil, garlic, and coriander (26€); seafood tagliatelle with saffron and champagne sauce (24€); and the homage to Cascais fish and seafood stew (18€), an enhanced and minimalist version of a Portuguese classic.
It's worth accompanying your meal with some of the many signature cocktails coming from the bar to the dining area. Try the Orient Express (8€), made with basil syrup, lime juice, lychee liqueur and gin; the Red Mule (10€), prepared with lime juice, sugar syrup, red fruits, vodka, ginger beer and ginger foam; or a Rosemary Negroni (10€), featuring Campari, sweet vermouth, gin, rosemary foam and citrus.
Finish your meal with the strawberry soup, fresh red berries, vanilla ice cream and whipped cream (6€); the banana banoffee pie (6€); or indulge in the upcoming hazelnut delight that is about to join the menu.
Honey, I've changed the house
The space is now brighter - with a large skylight above a round table, featuring an orange-toned lamp that evokes the seafood, the restaurant's DNA. And right next to it, almost seamlessly, is the terrace, overlooking the yellow-painted street and under the increasingly present sunshine this time of year.
The other room, where the bar is located, is more secluded, with darker tones, for those who prefer to enjoy Sr. Manuel in a more nocturnal atmosphere, right next to the counter where the cocktails are served. Several of the partners in this project are the same as those from the neighboring Malacopa, a Mexican restaurant, and Residente, dedicated to healthy food and brunch. The opening of a new concept may be coming soon.
Rua Afonso Sanches, 40, Cascais. 962 733 751. Sun-Tue and Thu 12.00-00.00; Wed 18.00-00.00; Fri and Sat 12.00-02.00