Portugal’s most famous bakery is Pastéis de Belem, the place to go to try the city’s signature pastry. Devour a buttery custard-filled tart invented by Catholic monks.
Visit this bakery to taste its decadent pastries and learn about the story behind their recipe. Lines regularly stretch out the door, but as soon as you bite into the famous pastry you’ll realise the wait was worth it. The pastel de nata is so popular that its flaking crust and indulgent custard filling has become a signature of Lisbon.
Learn about the story behind the pastry as you enjoy one with a coffee. The story goes that the treats were the invention of Catholic monks at the neighbouring Jeronimos Monastery. The monks would keep chickens to produce eggs and the leftover yolks that weren’t used to dye clothing or make port went into the delicious tarts.
Since 1837 the bakery has been the most popular place in the city to get the tart. Sprinkle a small dose of sugar and cinnamon on top to eat it like the locals. Couple your tart with a warm coffee or a cold beverage. Stock up on other snacks for the day by looking through the vast selection of sweet and savoury treats available at the bakery.
Pastéis de Belem is located in the heart of the Belem district near Lisbon’s oceanfront. Many trams and buses service the area but on a sunny day it’s a picturesque stroll from the city centre. The shop is open daily and despite its reputation, prices remain fair. A little bit of patience goes a long way at Pastéis de Belem and will have you enjoying a table in one of the most atmospheric and friendly cafés in the city.
Afterwards, you’ll be well positioned to explore many of Lisbon’s attractions, including the Jeronimos Monastery and oceanfront monuments celebrating Portugal’s many explorers.
