Eating outside?

I think the question is about grabbing a sandwich and finding a place to eat it, I know that a mini-picnic is frowned upon in some parts of European cities….maybe your wife can clarify this with her hairdresser.

I think Lesley is correct. There is a difference between eating at an outdoor Ccafe table, and picnicking with 'to go' food on a public bench, ledge or steps. In some cities it is not only frowned upon, but you could be fined. Other cities are more lax. OP's wife should ask her hair dresser where the locals go for picnics.

Traditionaly eating is a social affair for Portuguese either at home, restaurant or cafe.
Taking food from a restaurant to a park bench is not normal procedure for Portuguese but I've seen tourists do it.

If the weather is good you'll see the outdoor patio restaurants and cafes full of people eating, drinking and socializing.

As the previous poster said, meal times are social events here. Rarely do I see people eating on a park bench, walking around town or on public transport. Same with consuming coffee or other beverages, other than water. Part of what I love about Portugal is the slower pace of life, which includes mealtimes.

Most of the restaurants here in Cascais have outdoor seating - especially since Covid. And, since the weather is nice enough to eat outside throughout the year, one can take advantage of the outside tables most of the time.

Thanks to everyone who took time to reply. Very much appreciated.

Any update?