A Meal with a Mission: Why Cafe Joyeux in Cascais is a Must-Visit

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Aqui… onde a terra se acaba e o mar começa…

Luis Vaz de Camões

Cascais, Portugal – It was a perfect Portuguese day, especially for January! The sun cast a golden glow over the town, the gentle lull of the Atlantic provided a soothing soundtrack, and the air was filled with the promise of adventure and, most importantly, incredible food. In our pre-trip research, my husband and I made a pact to skip the familiar brunch spots we could find back home, instead seeking out places that offered a true taste of local life. Our search led us to a discovery that offered far more than just a morning meal. Nestled by the water, a stone’s throw from the historic Palacete Seixas and the bustling Pontão da Praia da Ribeira, lies Cafe Joyeux – a place where delicious food and a powerful social mission beautifully intertwine.

From the outside, Cafe Joyeux presents a clean, inviting facade. The interior is equally charming, with neat, tidy decor that creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. While the view from the restaurant overlooks a car park, the true heart of this establishment lies not in its scenery, but in its purpose.

Cafe Joyeux is a unique, non-profit restaurant chain with a profound mission: to train and employ individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace provides these individuals with the opportunity to lead fulfilling, productive, and independent lives. It’s a concept that is both inspiring and, as we discovered, seamlessly executed.

Frankly, despite glowing reviews, we were initially unsure what to expect. Any apprehension quickly dissipated as we were greeted by a team of dedicated and well-trained staff who managed every aspect of the restaurant – from taking orders and cooking to handling transactions and cleaning – with confidence and a genuine sense of pride. The service was, in a word, great. There was a palpable sense of community and support, with a staff member available to assist if needed, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

The menu itself was a delightful surprise, showcasing a range of local Portuguese cuisine. It was refreshing to see a chain, even a non-profit one, embrace and celebrate the authentic flavours of its location.

On the recommendation of a Portuguese waiter we’d met back in the UK, I opted for the Braised Beef Francesinha, a legendary sandwich with a reputation for its formidable size. He wasn’t wrong. This iconic dish is a glorious layering of braised beef, bacon, and sausage, all enveloped in melted cheese, (usually topped with an egg, but not on this occasion) and drenched in a rich, flavourful tomato sauce. Every bite was a revelation – a truly stunning and incredibly filling creation that I was thrilled to have experienced.

My husband chose another Portuguese classic, the Bacalhau com Natas. This creamy codfish dish was a masterpiece of textures and flavours. The fish was perfectly cooked, its flaky tenderness melting in the mouth, while the cream sauce was light and heavenly, defying its rich description. It was a comforting and deeply satisfying dish that showcased the subtlety of Portuguese comfort food.

To accompany our meals, we enjoyed some of the fresh juices on offer. While I regret not capturing a photo, their vibrant colours and delicious, healthy flavours were the perfect counterbalance to the richness of our main courses.

Our experience at Cafe Joyeux was a powerful reminder that a meal can be so much more than just food on a plate. It was a chance to enjoy a wonderful dining experience, savour delicious, authentic cuisine, and, most importantly, support a truly invaluable cause. By providing a platform for individuals with disabilities to thrive in a professional environment, Cafe Joyeux is not just serving meals; it’s changing lives and challenging societal perceptions. We left with full stomachs and even fuller hearts, and I will certainly be seeking out their other locations across Europe and the world.