On a relaxed Friday night, we found ourselves craving good food and a taste of nostalgia for Portugal. Casa do Frango, tucked away in the charming enclave of Piccadilly’s Heddon Street, felt like the perfect escape to rekindle those fond memories of the Algarve’s vibrant flavours and comforting warmth.

From the host’s stand, it was clear that the restaurant was designed to embody the essence of a true Casa—a home. The rustic décor, warm lighting, and subtle hints of Portuguese charm transported us away from the growing chill of a London evening, with its twinkling Christmas lights, and into a haven of hearty food and welcoming hospitality. It felt less like stepping into a restaurant and more like being invited to a feast in the heart of southern Europe, where every detail whispered warmth and authenticity.

Casa Do Frango - First Impressions

As we stepped into Casa do Frango, we were greeted by a lively, inviting atmosphere that struck a perfect balance between homely and chic. The rustic wooden tables, surrounded by lush greenery and warm, earthy tones, immediately set the tone for a relaxed evening. The décor felt effortlessly authentic—like stepping into a sun-soaked holiday home somewhere in southern Europe, where every detail whispered of warmth and charm.

The staff made a point of welcoming us, their smiles genuine and their enthusiasm contagious. From the gentle hum of conversation to the sizzle of grilled chicken wafting from the kitchen, the dining room buzzed with a convivial energy. Nearby, the bar staff poured beer with effortless ease, while diners clinked glasses and shared laughter over plates of vibrant Portuguese-style tapas.

A quick glance at the menu revealed a refreshingly simple selection of dishes designed for sharing—perfect for a laid-back evening. As we settled in, it became clear that Casa do Frango wasn’t just a restaurant; it was an experience, evoking the carefree joy of long summer evenings spent dining in good company.

Drinks - Refreshing Sips

To kick off the meal and ease into the evening, we opted for cocktails to celebrate the end of the week and the chance to unwind. Casa do Frango’s menu offered just the right options to suit our preferences. With a spicy margarita enthusiast and caipirinha lovers at the table, our choices were obvious—and the drinks did not disappoint.

The caipirinha was fresh, light, and beautifully balanced. As a former bartender, I appreciated the use of cachaça, a Brazilian spirit distilled from sugarcane that is a cousin to rum. Its inclusion gave the cocktail a genuine and authentic flavour.

I personally indulged in the spicy margarita, which set the tone for the evening’s Piri-Piri theme. The rim, dusted with Piri-Piri spices, added a delightful heat that complemented the tartness of the drink. It was an excellent way to begin the experience and hinted at the bold flavours yet to come.

Starters - Portuguese Sharers

We were in the mood for meat, and our choices reflected it. We opted for three dishes that perfectly showcased Casa do Frango’s knack for authentic Portuguese flavours: Wagyu meatballs served in a rich, chunky tomato sauce and topped generously with oregano, grilled chorizo sausage accompanied by a tangy black olive mayo and pickled peppers, and finally, potato and salt cod fritters served with a zesty lemon aioli.

The Wagyu meatballs were a standout. Delicate and tender from their long cooking process, they fell apart effortlessly, each bite infused with the sweetness of the tomato sauce. These meatballs weren’t just a starter—they were substantial enough to be a main, making it a good thing we decided to share.

Next up, the grilled chorizo. Though the portion was modest, it packed a punch with its smoky, salty flavour. The star accompaniment here was the black olive mayonnaise. At first, I didn’t even realise it was mayo—it was so tangy and bold that it acted more like a luxurious dipping sauce, perfectly cutting through the richness of the chorizo. Paired with the pickled peppers, which added a tangy sharpness, this plate was a flavourful delight.

Finally, the potato and salt cod fritters, a nod to my own memories of enjoying this delicacy at Lisbon’s bustling food markets. Unlike the heavily fried versions I’d tried in Portugal, these were lighter and less oily, which was a welcome change. Their fluffy, almost airy texture delivered a subtle flavour that paired beautifully with the lemon aioli. The tartness of the aioli elevated the dish, preventing any sense of dryness and ensuring each bite was perfectly balanced.

Mains - Signature Piri-Piri

The star of the show—and the main reason we came to Casa do Frango—was, of course, the Piri-Piri chicken. We ordered a half chicken to share, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Growing up in the UK, the concept of a "cheeky Nando’s" is almost a rite of passage, introducing many of us to the world of Piri-Piri. Back then, it was my benchmark for Portuguese cooking. That was until a transformative trip to Portugal, where I journeyed from Porto to Lisbon and down to the Algarve. It was in Porto that I discovered an authentic Piri-Piri chicken spot claiming to be one of the original creators of the dish. The flavours were nothing like the Nando’s experience, and I thought I’d never taste anything close again unless I returned to Portugal. That was until Casa do Frango proved me wrong.

The chicken arrived on a rustic metal sharing plate, its skin glistening in shades of charred red and orange, resting in a shallow pool of vibrant Piri-Piri oil and natural chicken juices. Each bite was a revelation—succulent, perfectly seasoned meat that practically fell off the bone. If you’re someone who’s hesitant about eating meat on the bone, I urge you to try this. The bone is integral to the cooking process, infusing the chicken with a depth of flavour that’s utterly irresistible. We couldn’t stop raving about it long after the last bite.

To accompany the chicken, we opted for their signature Casa rice, a dish our waiter strongly recommended—and rightly so. This savoury masterpiece combined peas, plantain, and chunks of smoky chorizo, all topped with four golden shards of crispy chicken skin. A side of hot Piri-Piri sauce was provided for an extra kick. The rice had the perfect consistency—not too dry, not too sticky—and every spoonful seemed to unveil a new layer of flavour. The crispy chicken skin was a cheeky indulgence, adding a salty crunch that made the dish even more satisfying.

Desserts - Indulgent End

To round off our meal, we indulged in three desserts, eager to satisfy whatever space we had left. I don’t usually gravitate toward sweet dishes, but lately, my sweet tooth has been calling the shots, so I was genuinely excited to explore Casa do Frango’s dessert offerings.

We began with the familiar pastel de nata, Portugal’s iconic custard tart. This one ticked all the boxes—flaky pastry, creamy egg custard, and subtle notes of lemon and vanilla that elevated the flavour. It was clear from the buttery layers that it had been freshly baked. However, at £4, the size felt a bit underwhelming for the price. Perhaps pairing it with a small scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of sauce could have made it feel more indulgent.

Next, we tried the almond cake, which offered a pleasantly fluffy texture and a restrained sweetness that didn’t overwhelm the palate. While it leaned slightly on the dry side, the portion size was surprisingly generous, making it a satisfying option for those who prefer lighter desserts.

The highlight of the dessert selection—and the unanimous favourite at our table—was the bolo de bolacha, a classic Portuguese biscuit cake made with layers of ‘Maria’ biscuits, rich vanilla cream, and salted caramel. This dessert was a revelation: velvety, perfectly creamy, and utterly decadent. Every bite was a delightful blend of sweetness and texture, and it was the one dish everyone kept returning to until the plate was scraped clean.

Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, Casa do Frango’s desserts offer something for everyone. While some items could use a bit of refinement, the bolo de bolacha alone is worth saving room for—it’s the perfect ending to a meal steeped in Portuguese tradition.

Final Thoughts

Casa do Frango delivered more than just a meal; it offered a genuine slice of Portugal in the heart of Piccadilly. From the warm hospitality and inviting atmosphere to the outstanding food and refreshing drinks, every element resonated with authenticity.

The starters were a treat for meat lovers, the Piri-Piri chicken was the star of the evening, and the signature Casa rice completed the meal with its vibrant flavours. While the staff’s enthusiasm to upsell was noticeable, one portion of chicken with starters was more than enough for three people.

Whether you’re planning a relaxed date night or a casual catch-up with friends, Casa do Frango provides the perfect setting for a memorable meal. The cosy setting, delicious food, and nods to Portuguese tradition make it a must-visit spot in London.

Bonus tip: I recommend reserving a table for peak hours, you can have a drink at theCasa do Frango bar while you wait or you can visit the pubs The Starman also on Heddon Street or Leicester Arms a five minute walk away on the corner of Warwick Street and Glasshouse Street.

Practical Information

Address: 31-33 Heddon St, London W1B 4BN

Website: CasadoFrango.co.uk

Estimated Price Range: £40–£45 per person including service.