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Discover the best places to eat Pastel de Nata in Lisbon
Lisbon
What is a Pastel de Nata?
Pasteis de Natas, also known as Portuguese custard tarts, are a popular pastry that originated in Portugal. They consist of a crispy, flaky pastry shell filled with a rich and creamy egg custard that is slightly caramelized on top. The custard is made with sugar, egg yolks, milk, cream, and a touch of vanilla extract. Pasteis de Natas are typically served warm, with a light dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon on top. They are a popular dessert and snack in Portugal, and can be found in bakeries and cafes throughout the country, you can even find them in starbucks!
Here are the 5 best spot to eat pastel de nata in Lisbon:
1. Pasteis de Belem
Pasteis de Belem is often considered the best place for natas because it is where the original recipe was first created. The recipe was developed by the monks who lived at the Jeronimos Monastery in the 18th century, and the bakery at Pasteis de Belem has been making them using the same secret recipe since 1837.
The bakery has become famous for its pastries, which are made with high-quality ingredients and baked to perfection in a traditional wood-fired oven. The result is a creamy, flaky pastry with a caramelized topping that is both rich and delicious.
Is it worth the hype?
Yes! At first I really was hesitant to go because usually touristic places like this are often victims of their own success and they often become overhype. Obviously it is a very touristic place, and if you don’t go early there are often a huge crowd of people, but they have a take-out line, which is much quicker. We took some to go and then went to eat it by the monastery which was quite nice.
2. Manteigaria
Manteigaria is a true gem when it comes to the world of Pastel de Nata in Lisbon. This iconic pastry shop has been serving up their signature pastries for over 100 years, and they have truly perfected the art of this sweet treat.
At Manteigaria, you’ll find that each Pastel de Nata is crafted with so much care and precision, using only the finest ingredients to ensure an authentic taste of their pastry. From the flaky, buttery crust to the silky smooth custard filling, every bite of their Pastel de Nata is a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more. You should definitely take a pack of six and go enjoy your natas in one of Lisbon’s amazing viewpoints.
3. Pastelaria Santo António
Pastelaria Santo António is a must-visit destination for any lover of Pastel de Nata in Lisbon. What sets this charming pastry shop apart is the impeccable quality and consistency of their pastry, as well as the warm and friendly service that you’ll experience from the moment you walk through their doors. Honestly this place is quite the hype, I found that you can feel the care given in each of their pastry. Although I would say to try to go there when there are not too many people, it will definitely make your experiences better.
While it is located in one of Lisbon’s most touristic areas, I found that again they really managed to keep the authenticity of the place and the care for their pastry. It is definitely worth the steep walk up the hills to get hold of one of their heavenly taste pastel de nata.
4. Pastelaria Emanda
So I saw this recommendation on another travel blog and I couldn’t help but to try it since it is not one of the usual best spots to eat pastel de nata in Lisbon. Turns out that Emenda is a true hidden gem. Located in a cute neighborhood, this pastelaria is always bustling with hungry locals – a sure sign that you’ve stumbled upon the perfect spot! I found that this place was super cozy and I was surprised to see that they offer a range of delights, from rich and flavorful coffee to fresh and invigorating juices, and all at very affordable prices. But the real star of the show is their delicious natas.
5. Natas n’ Friends
This place was my little discovery. It was near the saint george castle and I literally almost fell off my chair. The custard was just the perfect balance of sweet and salty, while the pastry was just crispy enough to make me want to sit in this little cafe all day and stuff myself on these delicious pastries. If you’re in the mood for a true taste of Lisbon, Natas n’ friends is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings and is in my opinion one of the spots to eat the best pastel de nata in Lisbon.
I think this sequence of pictures says it all!
These are only 5 spots to eat the best Pastel de Nata in Lisbon, but believe me there are many more to try!
Full disclosure, pastel de nata is like a one way to heaven in one bite. But don’t just take my word for it. Venture out to different places in Lisbon and try a Pastel de Nata from every bakery you come across. It’s like a fun game of dessert roulette, and you might just hit the jackpot with a particularly delicious treat!
Trust me, after one bite of this heavenly pastry, you’ll be hooked. And you won’t be able to resist the temptation to go on a Pastel de Nata tour of Lisbon, seeking out the ultimate pastry perfection. So come on, what are you waiting for? Let the Pastel de Nata quest begin!
Marie-Pier Allard
Traveller by day, blog writer by night
