Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
O Forno da Encosta
$$Restaurant
🕑 1.5 to 2 hours👶 Best for all ages, from toddlers to teens. The kids menu offers familiar options for fussy eaters, while older children can explore traditional Portuguese flavors like grilled fish, octopus, and pastries in a pressure-free environment.
About
O Forno da Encosta is a welcoming family restaurant in the charming surf town of Ericeira, serving hearty traditional Portuguese dishes that appeal to both adventurous and picky eaters. With a dedicated kids menu, generous portions perfect for sharing, and a relaxed atmosphere where children are genuinely welcomed, it's an ideal spot for families to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine without the stress of fine dining formality.
Highlights
- ✓Dedicated kids menu with familiar options alongside traditional Portuguese dishes
- ✓Generous portions that allow families to share and sample multiple dishes
- ✓Friendly, patient service that welcomes children and international visitors
- ✓Authentic Portuguese atmosphere in the heart of surf town Ericeira
- ✓Fresh seafood options that introduce kids to quality, simply prepared fish
Pro Tips
- 1.Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases like 'obrigado' (thank you) and 'por favor' (please), as English may be limited, though staff are typically friendly and patient with international families.
- 2.Arrive earlier for dinner (around 7pm) rather than the typical Portuguese dining time of 9pm, when service is less rushed and tables are more readily available.
- 3.Portuguese portions are generous, so consider ordering one or two dishes to share with younger children before committing to full kids meals.
- 4.Ask about the fresh catch of the day, as Ericeira is a fishing village and seafood options are often exceptional and kid-friendly when simply grilled.
- 5.Combine your meal with a visit to Ericeira's nearby beaches for a full day out, making this restaurant a perfect lunch or dinner stop after beach time.
Best Time to Visit
Lunch (1pm to 2:30pm) or early dinner (7pm to 8pm) on weekdays offers a more relaxed experience. Weekend evenings can be busier with locals, though the atmosphere remains family-friendly. Summer months bring more tourists, so booking ahead is recommended.
What to Know
Moderate pricing ($$) makes this accessible for families traveling on a budget. Credit cards are generally accepted, but having some euros on hand is wise. High chairs are typically available upon request.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round. Summer months (June to September) are busiest due to beach tourism and may require reservations. Off-season offers a more local, relaxed dining experience with shorter waits.
More Activities Near Ericeira
Activity
Pedra Lume Beach
Pedra Lume Beach is a gem for families seeking a safer beach experience near Lisbon. The sheltered cove provides calmer waters than many Atlantic beaches, making it ideal for children learning to swim or play in the ocean. Little explorers will delight in the natural rock pools teeming with marine life, while parents can relax knowing the protected bay offers gentler conditions.
Ice Cream
Gelataria Ericeira
$
Gelataria Ericeira is a delightful traditional gelato shop in the heart of Ericeira's charming town center, offering homemade ice cream that will cool down little ones after a day exploring this coastal surf town. With family-friendly seating and authentic Portuguese flavors alongside classic favorites, it's the perfect spot to treat the kids while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Activity
Casa do Artesão
Casa do Artesão in the charming surf town of Ericeira offers hands-on creative workshops where kids can learn traditional Portuguese crafts alongside local artisans. Families can try their hand at pottery on the wheel, create painted tiles in the azulejo tradition, or make other authentic crafts in a welcoming studio environment that celebrates Portuguese culture.
Adventure
Trilho dos Coxos
★5.0
Trilho dos Coxos offers families a stunning coastal hiking experience along Ericeira's dramatic Atlantic shoreline. This accessible trail combines breathtaking ocean views with the bonus of natural swimming spots, making it perfect for active families who want to explore Portugal's rugged coastline. The well-maintained paths are manageable for children, and the reward of cooling off in natural pools makes it an adventure kids will remember.