The Best Places to Indulge in Pastéis de Nata Across Portugal

Portugal is a superb European destination, a gem of a country clinging on to the western edge of Spain, buffeted by the rough waves of the Atlantic Ocean, and one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe. It combines a rugged, adventurous spirit with a romantic, Iberian flavor, and offers an incredible amount to see and do. From picturesque fairytale castles and dramatic mountain hikes to gorgeous golden-sand beaches and tropical islands, it is a country of contrasts and variety, and never, ever boring. 

It is also a culinary hotspot. And there is nothing more famous, and more delicious, than an authentic Portuguese pasteis de nata. Our kids loved these when we visited! These delectable treasures are revered by locals and savoured by travellers for their decadent combination of golden, flaky pastry and rich nata custard, a testament to Portugal’s culinary history and a beloved emblem of the nation’s gastronomy. 

The History of Pastéis de Nata

The history of these delicate, delicious pastries goes back centuries. The first reference to them came during the 18th century, and legend has it that they were created by Catholic monks in the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon. These religious brothers would use egg whites to starch their clothing during the washing process, and began to use the leftover yolks to create pastries. They proved so delicious that the pastéis de nata (or pastéis de Belem as they were called, due to their association with the local Belem district) began to be sold by a pastry shop next to the monastery, the famous Antiga Confeitaria de Belém.

What is a Pastéis de Nata?

These days, pastéis de nata are made across Portugal. They are characterized by their golden, flaky puff pastry crusts, and sweet, creamy custard filling made from the ‘nata’, the creamy skin that forms on full fat milk. Usually served with cinnamon or powdered sugar sprinkled on top, it is a luxurious combination of flavors and textures and makes for a truly decadent snack. 

Pastéis de nata hold a special place in the hearts of the Portuguese and certainly form a central part of their culinary heritage. A must-try when in Portugal, they are available in villages, towns, and cities across the country, but there are a few particular places that serve seriously unmissable versions of this iconic pastry. So, if you are visiting Portugal, before living the experience of cruising to the Mediterranean, here are some of the spots you must try, here are some of the spots you must try.

The Best Pastéis de Nata in Portugal

Antiga Confeitaria de Belém, Lisbon

The only place to start when discussing the best pastéis de nata in Portugal is the Antiga Confeitaria de Belem in Lisbon. This famous pastry shop is situated next to the Jeronimo Monastery where the original recipe was reputedly invented, and have been selling pastéis de Belem (as they are called here) made according to this secret recipe since 1837. It is a quintessential stop on the Lisbon tourist trail, and while the queues can be excessive, the pastries themselves are certainly worth the wait. For more things to do in Lisbon – read here!

Manteigaria, Lisbon

However, despite what the fine folks out in Belem might have you believe, pastéis de nata do not start and end at the Antiga Confeitaria. There are a few other spots in the city of Lisbon that can go toe-to-toe with the self-styled original bakers of Portugal’s iconic pastry, and Manteigaria is one of them. Nestled in the heart of Chiado, this unassuming spot was once a butter shop, but is now one of the main factories of pastéis de nata in the city. With tarts made in front of you throughout the day it is well worth a visit, and its Art Nouveau façade facing Camões Square is perfect for a photo opportunity as well!

Confeitaria Nacional, Lisbon

Founded back in 1829, the Confeitaria Nacional is an institution in Lisbon. It has been the official Royal Confectioner since its foundation, and while it is best known for its Bolo Rei Christmas cake, it makes a superb pastéis de nata as well. The building itself is sublime, exquisitely decorated in regal grandeur, and makes for a delightful place to stop for a coffee and a sweet treat. 

Pastelaria Aloma, Almada

Just a stone’s throw across the Tagus River from Lisbon, Almada is a tranquil breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. For foodies looking for their pastéis de nata hit, there’s no better place to go than Pastelaria Aloma. This excellent bakery serves up perfectly crispy, creamy tarts that melt on the tongue after the initial flaky crunch, and are perfect for an afternoon snack overlooking the water.

Fábrica da Nata, Sintra

Sintra is a wonderful weekend away or day out from Lisbon. Most travellers head up to this tiny mountain town hidden in the forests to discover the gorgeous pastel-colored fairytale castles and palaces, but it is also home to the Fábrica da Nata, one of the best and most prolific custard tart factories in Portugal. There are also branches of the Fábrica da Nata in central Lisbon, but the location in Sintra makes it worth the trip.

Casa Brasileira, Porto

Getting out of Lisbon, Porto is Portugal’s second city. Famous for its port wine and gorgeous river setting, it also offers several of the best places to go for traditional pastéis de nata in Portugal. First of these is the Casa Brasileira, a historic coffee shop that serves amazing fresh-brewed coffee and mouthwatering custard tarts. 

Leitaria da Quinta do Paço, Porto

If you are after something a little different, the Leitaria da Quinta do Paço in Porto is an artisanal bakery that offers a modern twist on the classic tart. By adding a dash of lemon zest to the traditional pastéis recipe, this excellent spot has created a delightful zingy, fresh, and alternative taste sensation that is well worth comparing. 

Pão, Açúcar & Companhia, Faro

Faro, in the Algarve, is a heaven of gorgeous golden-sand beaches and fabulous weather. The old town is a charming tumble of cobbled streets and historic houses, and is also home to Pão, Açúcar & Companhia, who boast the best pastéis de nata in town.