Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, is a city where history, culture, and culinary traditions blend seamlessly. While the city is known for its stunning viewpoints, historic trams, and fado music, no visit is complete without indulging in its most famous sweet treat: the pastel de nata. These creamy, flaky custard tarts have been a symbol of Portuguese pastry for centuries, and nowhere are they more beloved than in the streets of Lisbon. But where can you find the very best pastel de nata in the city?
Let’s embark on a delicious journey through some of the most iconic and beloved pastel de nata shops in Lisbon.
Discover with us:
Pastéis de Belém: The Legendary Origin
No list of pastel de nata spots in Lisbon would be complete without mentioning Pastéis de Belém, the birthplace of this iconic pastry. Established in 1837, this bakery continues to craft its custard tarts using a closely-guarded recipe that dates back to the monks of Jerónimos Monastery. Located in the heart of Belém, this historic shop attracts locals and tourists alike, who line up daily for a taste of the original pastéis de nata.
What makes these tarts special is their perfectly crispy, flaky crust paired with a rich, creamy custard filling, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Portuguese pastry.
What to try: Obviously, the pastéis de nata! Pair them with a traditional Portuguese galão (milky coffee) for the perfect afternoon snack.
Manteigaria: The Modern Favorite
If you’re looking for a more contemporary take on the pastel de nata, head to Manteigaria. With locations in both Lisbon's Time Out Market and in the neighborhood of Chiado, Manteigaria has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors. While relatively new compared to Pastéis de Belém, Manteigaria has earned a reputation for serving some of the best pastel de nata in the city.
What sets Manteigaria apart is their open kitchen, where you can watch the pastry chefs craft the tarts fresh throughout the day. The result? A perfectly caramelized top with a slightly gooey custard and a pastry shell that strikes the ideal balance between crunchy and buttery.
What to try: Enjoy a warm pastel de nata straight from the oven, with a dash of cinnamon, and don’t forget to grab a few to go!
Fabrica da Nata: A Celebration of Tradition
Fabrica da Nata is another top contender in Lisbon’s pastry scene, offering a delightful experience in a chic and modern setting. With multiple locations across the city, including one on the bustling Avenida da Liberdade, Fabrica da Nata invites you to enjoy your nata in style, complete with a variety of toppings and accompaniments.
Their pastel de nata is known for its velvety custard and perfectly crisp layers of pastry, making it a delicious and satisfying treat. The atmosphere inside the shop is warm and inviting, offering a relaxing spot to take a break from sightseeing.
What to try: Order the classic pastel de nata, and if you're feeling adventurous, try pairing it with a glass of ginjinha (cherry liqueur) for a true Lisbon experience.
Confeitaria Nacional: A Slice of History
Confeitaria Nacional is Lisbon’s oldest bakery, founded in 1829, and is an essential stop for those who want to taste history. Located in Praça da Figueira, this grand pastry shop has been serving traditional Portuguese sweets, including pastel de nata, for nearly two centuries. The shop itself is a treat to visit, with its old-world charm and elegant décor.
Their pastel de nata has a wonderfully creamy filling that is slightly less sweet than others, with a delicate pastry shell that crumbles in just the right way. It’s a perfect place to sit down, relax, and savor the flavors of the city.
What to try: Enjoy a pastel de nata with a cup of strong Portuguese espresso while soaking in the historical ambiance of the bakery.
Aloma: The Award-Winning Bakery
Aloma, located in the neighborhood of Campo de Ourique, is one of Lisbon’s most celebrated bakeries, having won multiple awards for its pastel de nata over the years. Known for its traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients, Aloma’s custard tarts are beloved for their silky texture and perfectly baked, flaky crust.
This bakery offers a more local experience, away from the crowded tourist areas, and is an excellent place to discover why Aloma continues to win accolades for its pastel de nata.
What to try: Of course, their award-winning pastel de nata! You can also explore other Portuguese pastries while you're there, as Aloma offers a wide variety of sweet treats.
Lisbon’s pastel de nata scene is a reflection of the city itself—rich in history, full of flavor, and endlessly charming. From the iconic Pastéis de Belém to the modern favorites like Manteigaria and Fabrica da Nata, each of these bakeries offers a unique take on the classic custard tart. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, sampling a warm pastel de nata should be at the top of your Lisbon to-do list.
We have reached the end of this article on Best Pastel de Nata Shops in Lisbon. If you’re planning a visit to Portugal, be sure to check out our previous blogs for more tips on where to eat, drink, and explore. o continue discovering more hidden gems and captivating destinations, stay tuned for more articles on our website. Follow us @thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on new releases and join us as we embark on new adventures. We will be back soon with a new article! If you're visiting Lisbon, make sure to try our Fado, Food, and Wine tour!
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