Best Pastel de Nata in Lisbon 2025: 8 Authentic Bakeries Locals Love

🥐 TL;DR: Pastéis de Belém is the original and most famous (expect queues), Manteigaria offers the best modern take with visible production, and Nata Lisboa provides excellent quality without tourist crowds. All serve fresh, warm pastéis de nata under €2 each.

As a devoted pastel de nata enthusiast who has probably consumed hundreds of these golden custard tarts during my time in Lisbon, I can confidently say that finding the perfect pastel de nata is a delicious journey worth taking. These iconic Portuguese pastries, with their flaky, buttery layers and creamy custard filling dusted with cinnamon, represent the soul of Lisbon’s culinary heritage.

Whether you’re searching for the authentic original recipe, wondering where locals actually buy their daily pastéis de nata, or looking for the best bakeries near Lisbon’s main attractions, this comprehensive guide will take you through 8 exceptional spots where you can taste the most mouthwatering custard tarts in the city.

The Sweet History: Origins of Portugal’s Most Famous Pastry

Before we embark on our sugary quest through Lisbon’s best bakeries, let’s explore the story behind Portugal’s most beloved dessert.

The pastel de nata (plural: pastéis de nata) was born over 300 years ago in the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, a neighborhood just west of central Lisbon. Catholic monasteries and convents in Portugal used large quantities of egg whites to starch clothing and religious habits. With an abundance of leftover egg yolks, the monks began experimenting with sweet recipes.

In the early 19th century, following the Liberal Revolution of 1820, many Portuguese monasteries and convents faced closure. To survive financially, the monks of Jerónimos Monastery began selling these custard tarts at a nearby sugar refinery. The pastries quickly became popular among locals and visitors alike.

In 1837, the recipe was sold to the sugar refinery, and the “Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém” opened its doors. The bakery has been producing pastéis using the same secret recipe – known only to a handful of master bakers – for nearly 200 years. While the original recipe remains a closely guarded secret, countless bakeries across Lisbon have created their own versions, each with subtle variations in sweetness, texture, and technique.

Today, Portuguese bakeries produce an estimated 282 million pastéis de nata annually, with Lisbon being the undisputed capital of this sweet tradition. The authentic Portuguese pastel de nata has even received Protected Geographical Indication status, cementing its place in culinary history.

Now, let’s discover where you can taste the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon, from the legendary original to hidden neighborhood gems.

Quick Comparison: Best Pastéis de Nata Bakeries in Lisbon

Before diving into detailed reviews, here’s your essential guide at a glance:

Top 8 Best Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon

1. Pastéis de Belém – The Original and Most Famous

There’s simply no way to discuss the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon without starting with Pastéis de Belém. This legendary bakery has been producing custard tarts using the original monastery recipe since 1837, making it nearly 190 years old. Walking into this iconic blue-tiled establishment feels like stepping into Portuguese history.

The moment you bite into a warm pastel de nata from Belém, you understand the hype. The pastry is impossibly flaky with hundreds of delicate layers, the custard is creamy with the perfect balance of sweetness and egg flavor, and the caramelized top has those signature burnt spots that add subtle bitterness. The secret recipe, known only to three master bakers who work in a secret room called “oficina do segredo,” has been passed down through generations.

📍 Location & Practical Information

• Full Address: Rua de Belém 84-92, 1300-085 Lisboa
• Neighborhood: Belém (Historic waterfront district)
• Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00-23:00 (last orders 22:00)
• Price: €1.50 per pastel (minimum 6 for takeaway box)
• How to Get There: Tram 15E from Praça da Figueira or Praça do Comércio (20 min), Bus 714, 727, 728, 729, 751
• Seating: Massive indoor seating area with historic décor, outdoor tables, and takeaway counter
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted

💡 Insider Tips

• Beat the crowds: Arrive before 9:30 AM or after 6:00 PM to avoid peak tourist hours
• Takeaway vs. sit-down: The takeaway counter (to the right as you enter) is much faster than the sit-down restaurant
• Ask for them warm: Request “quentinhos” (warm) – they’ll give you the freshest batch
• Traditional way: Sprinkle with cinnamon and powdered sugar (available at every table)
• Combine with sightseeing: Visit Jerónimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries first, then reward yourself with pastéis
• Box it up: The blue boxes make excellent gifts and travel well for 24-48 hours

⭐ What Makes It Special

🥐 Signature Style: Original 187-year-old secret monastery recipe 🏆 Texture: Exceptionally flaky with 100+ layers, custard is slightly less sweet than others 📸 Instagram Factor: The iconic blue-tiled building and historic interior ⏱️ Freshness: Made continuously throughout the day, served warm

2. Manteigaria – The Modern Classic with a Show

Manteigaria has revolutionized the pastel de nata scene in Lisbon since opening in 2014. What sets this bakery apart is the open kitchen concept: you can watch the entire production process through glass windows as skilled bakers craft each pastel by hand. The hypnotic process of layering butter and dough, filling the molds, and watching them emerge golden from the oven adds to the experience.

Their pastéis de nata strike a perfect balance: the pastry is incredibly crispy and shatters delightfully when you bite into it, while the custard is silky smooth with a subtle vanilla note. They’re served piping hot, straight from the oven, with the tops perfectly caramelized. Many Lisbon residents argue these rival or even surpass the original Belém version.

📍 Location & Practical Information

Main Locations:

Bairro Alto (Original):

• Address: Rua do Loreto 2, 1200-108 Lisboa
• Neighborhood: Bairro Alto
• Metro: Baixa-Chiado (Blue/Green Lines), 5-minute walk
• Hours: Daily, 8:00-24:00

Time Out Market:

• Address: Mercado da Ribeira, Avenida 24 de Julho, 1200-479 Lisboa
• Neighborhood: Cais do Sodré
• Metro: Cais do Sodré (Green Line), inside the market
• Hours: Sunday-Wednesday 10:00-24:00, Thursday-Saturday 10:00-02:00
• Price: €1.40 per pastel
• Seating: Limited bar-style seating at Bairro Alto location, market seating at Time Out
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted

💡 Insider Tips

• Watch the show: Stand by the window and watch them making the pastéis – it’s mesmerizing
• Timing matters: They bake in batches every 20-30 minutes; ask when the next batch is ready
• Try both locations: Time Out Market is more spacious but can be touristy; Bairro Alto is more authentic
• Coffee pairing: Their bica (espresso) is excellent and complements the sweetness perfectly
• Evening treat: The Bairro Alto location stays open late, perfect for a post-dinner dessert

⭐ What Makes It Special

🥐 Signature Style: Ultra-crispy pastry with silky custard, visible production process 🏆 Texture: Shatteringly crisp exterior, velvety smooth filling with subtle vanilla 📸 Instagram Factor: Watching the bakers in action through the glass, perfect for videos ⏱️ Freshness: Continuous production, always served hot from the oven

3. Nata Lisboa – The Consistent Neighborhood Champion

Nata Lisboa represents the new generation of pastelarias that focus on quality, consistency, and strategic locations. With multiple spots around the city, they’ve perfected the art of producing excellent pastéis de nata without the tourist markup or long queues. What I love about Nata Lisboa is their reliability, every pastel maintains the same high standard regardless of location or time of day.

Their pastéis feature a beautifully golden, deeply caramelized top, a custard that’s sweet but not cloying, and a pastry that manages to be both flaky and sturdy enough to eat on the go. They’re slightly sweeter than the Belém version, which some people prefer.

📍 Location & Practical Information

Multiple Locations:

Praça dos Restauradores:

• Address: Praça dos Restauradores 65, 1250-188 Lisboa
• Metro: Restauradores (Blue Line), right at the square
• Hours: Daily, 8:00-23:00

Rua de Santa Justa:

• Address: Rua de Santa Justa 24, 1100-482 Lisboa
• Metro: Baixa-Chiado or Rossio, 3-minute walk
• Hours: Daily, 8:00-22:00

Other locations: Marquês de Pombal, Saldanha, and more

• Price: €1.30 per pastel (among the best value)
• Seating: Most locations have small seating areas, primarily takeaway focused
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted

💡 Insider Tips

• Strategic locations: Use Nata Lisboa when you’re exploring different neighborhoods
• Loyalty card: Ask for a stamp card – after 10 pastéis, get one free
• Always fresh: They monitor production carefully; if they’re not fresh, they’ll bake more
• Quick stop: Perfect for grabbing pastéis between sightseeing without detours
• Box deals: Buying 6 or 12 often comes with a small discount

⭐ What Makes It Special

🥐 Signature Style: Reliable quality across all locations, slightly sweeter than traditional 🏆 Texture: Well-caramelized top, smooth custard, crispy yet sturdy pastry 📸 Instagram Factor: Clean, modern aesthetic perfect for food photography ⏱️ Freshness: Regular baking schedule ensures fresh pastéis throughout the day

4. Confeitaria Nacional – Historic Elegance Since 1829

Step into Confeitaria Nacional and you’re transported to 19th-century Lisbon. This stunning historic café, even older than Pastéis de Belém, has been serving Portuguese sweets since 1829. The ornate interior with gilded mirrors, chandeliers, and marble counters makes eating a pastel de nata here feel like a special occasion.

Their pastéis de nata lean toward the traditional side with a less sweet custard and a particularly buttery, rich pastry. The custard has a pronounced egg flavor that purists appreciate. While they’re famous for many traditional Portuguese sweets, their pastéis de nata deserve recognition as some of Lisbon’s finest.

📍 Location & Practical Information

• Full Address: Praça da Figueira 18B, 1100-241 Lisboa
• Neighborhood: Baixa (Rossio area)
• Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00-20:00
• Price: €1.60 per pastel
• How to Get There: Metro Rossio (Green Line) or Baixa-Chiado, right on Praça da Figueira
• Seating: Beautiful historic café with table service, or takeaway counter
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted

💡 Insider Tips

• Experience the ambiance: Pay the extra €0.20 to sit down in the gorgeous historic interior
• Morning glory: Come for breakfast – pair your pastel with a galão (Portuguese latte)
• Other treats: Their bolo rei (king cake) and other traditional pastries are exceptional
• Portuguese breakfast: Order a pastel de nata with Portuguese ham and cheese toast
• Photo opportunity: The interior is one of Lisbon’s most beautiful café settings
• Central location: Perfect stop while exploring Rossio, Praça da Figueira, or Baixa

⭐ What Makes It Special

🥐 Signature Style: Traditional recipe with pronounced egg flavor, historic presentation 🏆 Texture: Extra buttery pastry, less sweet custard with authentic flavor 📸 Instagram Factor: Stunning 19th-century interior, ornate décor, historic ambiance ⏱️ Freshness: Baked throughout the day, ask for freshly made batch

5. Fábrica da Nata – The Tourist-Friendly Chain Done Right

Don’t let the fact that Fábrica da Nata is a small chain discourage you, they produce genuinely excellent pastéis de nata with consistency across locations. Founded in 2012, they’ve strategically positioned themselves near major tourist attractions while maintaining quality standards. Their pastéis are reliable, affordable, and perfect when you need a quick sweet fix while sightseeing.

The pastéis here feature a golden, caramelized top, a sweet custard that’s crowd-pleasing, and a flaky pastry that doesn’t disappoint. They’re slightly sweeter and creamier than the Belém original, which many visitors actually prefer.

📍 Location & Practical Information

Multiple Strategic Locations:

Praça dos Restauradores:

• Address: Praça dos Restauradores 51, 1250-096 Lisboa
• Metro: Restauradores (Blue Line)

Rua da Conceição (Baixa):

• Address: Rua da Conceição 75, 1100-038 Lisboa
• Metro: Baixa-Chiado or Terreiro do Paço

Rua Augusta:

• Address: Rua Augusta 275, 1100-053 Lisboa
• Heart of Baixa shopping district

Other locations: Santa Apolónia, Amoreiras, and more

• Opening Hours: Most locations: Daily, 8:00-23:00 (varies by location)
• Price: €1.30 per pastel
• Seating: Small seating areas, primarily takeaway
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted

💡 Insider Tips

• Open late: Many locations stay open until 23:00, perfect for evening desserts
• Tourist routes: Strategically located on major sightseeing paths
• Consistent quality: You know what you’re getting, which is reassuring
• Take boxes home: They pack well for bringing back to your accommodation
• Group orders: Good for buying multiple pastéis for groups
• English friendly: Staff at tourist locations speak English well

⭐ What Makes It Special

🥐 Signature Style: Sweeter, creamier version that appeals to international palates 🏆 Texture: Reliably flaky pastry, smooth sweet custard, good caramelization 📸 Instagram Factor: Clean, modern branding perfect for social media ⏱️ Freshness: High turnover ensures fresh pastéis in peak locations

6. Alcôa – The Hidden Local Favorite in Alcântara

Now we venture off the beaten tourist path to discover Alcôa, a neighborhood bakery in Alcântara that’s been serving locals since 1952. This unassuming pastelaria represents authentic Lisbon – no fancy décor, no English menus, just consistently excellent pastéis de nata at the best prices in the city.

Alcôa’s pastéis de nata are traditional in every sense: eggy custard with subtle sweetness, deeply caramelized tops with those sought-after burnt spots, and incredibly flaky pastry. What I love most is that you’ll be surrounded by locals picking up their daily pastéis, making this a genuine Portuguese experience.

📍 Location & Practical Information

• Full Address: Rua Maria Pia 15, 1350-230 Lisboa
• Neighborhood: Alcântara (residential area, west of center)
• Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 7:00-20:00; Sunday, 7:00-13:00
• Price: €1.10-1.20 per pastel (cheapest on this list!)
• How to Get There: Tram 15E or 18E to Alcântara, Bus 714, 720, 732, or Train to Alcântara-Mar
• Seating: Small traditional bakery, mostly takeaway with a few stools
• Payment: Cash preferred, cards accepted

💡 Insider Tips

• Early bird special: Come in the morning when locals buy fresh pastéis for breakfast
• Combine with LX Factory: Only 10 minutes walk to the trendy LX Factory area
• Portuguese immersion: Practice your Portuguese – this is a local spot
• Best value: Lowest prices for authentic quality in Lisbon
• Other baking: Their bread and other Portuguese pastries are also excellent
• Weekend closure: Remember they close Sunday afternoons

⭐ What Makes It Special

🥐 Signature Style: Authentic neighborhood recipe, traditional preparation, no frills 🏆 Texture: Deeply caramelized tops, eggy custard, ultra-flaky pastry 📸 Instagram Factor: Authentic local experience, traditional Portuguese bakery aesthetic ⏱️ Freshness: Multiple daily batches for neighborhood customers

7. Castro – Atelier de Pastéis de Nata – The Artisanal Approach

Castro represents the artisanal movement in Lisbon’s pastel de nata world. Opened in 2017 in the charming Chiado neighborhood, this small atelier takes a craft approach to custard tarts, producing small batches with meticulous attention to detail. Chef André Castro trained specifically in the art of making pastéis de nata and brings innovation while respecting tradition.

These pastéis are slightly different from traditional versions – the custard is lighter and airier with a more pronounced vanilla note, and the pastry achieves an almost croissant-like flakiness. They’re less sweet than most, allowing the butter and egg flavors to shine through.

📍 Location & Practical Information

• Full Address: Rua da Misericórdia 69, 1200-273 Lisboa
• Neighborhood: Chiado
• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00-19:00 (Closed Mondays)
• Price: €1.50 per pastel
• How to Get There: Metro Baixa-Chiado (Blue/Green Lines), 7-minute walk uphill
• Seating: Tiny shop with minimal seating, mostly takeaway
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted

💡 Insider Tips

• Limited production: They make small batches; arrive before 18:00 or they might sell out
• Taste the difference: These are noticeably different from traditional – in a good way
• Chef’s passion: André is often there and happy to discuss his technique
• Chiado shopping: Perfect stop while exploring Chiado’s boutiques and bookstores
• Less touristy: Despite being in Chiado, it’s a relatively undiscovered gem
• Monday closure: Remember they’re closed on Mondays

⭐ What Makes It Special

🥐 Signature Style: Artisanal small-batch production, innovative while traditional 🏆 Texture: Ultra-flaky pastry with airy, light custard and subtle vanilla 📸 Instagram Factor: Charming small atelier, craft aesthetic, beautiful presentation ⏱️ Freshness: Small batches throughout the day, handmade with visible care

8. Pastelaria Aloma – The Neighborhood Secret in Ajuda

Our final stop takes us to Pastelaria Aloma in Ajuda, a family-run neighborhood bakery that’s been quietly producing exceptional pastéis de nata since 1968. This is where locals from Ajuda come for their daily pastéis – zero tourists, zero pretense, just honest Portuguese baking at unbeatable prices.

Aloma’s pastéis de nata are wonderfully traditional: rich eggy custard, deeply caramelized tops with plenty of burnt spots, and pastry so flaky it leaves crumbs everywhere. They’re slightly larger than average and represent incredible value at just €1.10 each.

📍 Location & Practical Information

• Full Address: Calçada da Ajuda 67, 1300-009 Lisboa
• Neighborhood: Ajuda (residential area near Belém)
• Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 7:00-20:00; Sunday 7:00-13:00
• Price: €1.10 per pastel (tied for cheapest!)
• How to Get There: Bus 714, 727, 732, 760; or Tram 18E
• Seating: Traditional neighborhood bakery with counter seating
• Payment: Cash preferred, cards accepted for larger amounts

💡 Insider Tips

• Combine with Belém: Only 15 minutes from Belém’s monuments but without crowds
• Compare directly: Buy here then visit Pastéis de Belém to compare the original vs. neighborhood version
• Local ritual: Join Ajuda residents buying their morning or afternoon pastéis
• Best value anywhere: Quality rivals expensive spots at half the price
• Portuguese atmosphere: This is as authentic as it gets – minimal English spoken
• Fresh bread: Their traditional Portuguese bread is also worth buying

⭐ What Makes It Special

🥐 Signature Style: Traditional family recipe, unchanged for 50+ years 🏆 Texture: Generous size, ultra-flaky pastry, rich eggy custard, deep caramelization 📸 Instagram Factor: Authentic neighborhood bakery, vintage charm, real local life ⏱️ Freshness: Multiple batches for neighborhood customers throughout the day

How to Properly Eat a Pastel de Nata: The Portuguese Way

Now that you know where to find the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon, let’s talk about the proper way to enjoy them like a true Portuguese local:

The Traditional Method

1. Temperature Matters Portuguese eat their pastéis de nata warm (mornos) or at room temperature – never cold from the refrigerator. Ask for them “quentinhos” (warm) when available.

2. Cinnamon and Sugar: Most bakeries provide ground cinnamon (canela) and powdered sugar (açúcar em pó) shakers. The traditional approach is:

• Light sprinkle of cinnamon on top
• Optional dusting of powdered sugar
• Some purists use only cinnamon, others only sugar, many use both

3. Coffee Pairing: Pastéis de nata are traditionally paired with coffee:

• Bica (espresso) – the classic choice
• Meia de leite (half coffee, half milk) – popular for breakfast
• Galão (Portuguese latte) – for a gentler pairing

4. The Bite: Take a generous bite to get both the flaky pastry and creamy custard in one mouthful. The contrast of textures is essential to the experience.

Storage Tips

If you’re taking pastéis de nata back to your accommodation or as gifts:

• Best within: 24-48 hours at room temperature
• Refrigeration: Not recommended (pastry gets soggy), but if necessary, eat within 3 days
• Reheating: 5-7 minutes in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) – never microwave
• Freezing: Possible for up to 1 month, reheat directly from frozen in the oven

Getting Around: Use Lisbon’s Public Transport

Most of these bakeries are easily accessible using Lisbon’s excellent public transportation. For complete information on metros, trams, and buses to reach these locations, check out our comprehensive Metro de Lisboa guide for tourists.

If you’re planning a pastel de nata tour across multiple days, consider the Lisboa 7 Colinas card or Viva Viagem card for unlimited travel and better value.

The famous Tram 28 and Tram 15E pass near several of these bakeries, making them perfect stops on your sightseeing routes.

Complete Your Portuguese Food Journey

After savoring the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon, continue your culinary adventure through Portuguese cuisine. Discover 13 Portuguese desserts you absolutely must try beyond pastéis de nata, from travesseiros to ovos moles.

Pair your sweet experiences with savory delights – find the best piri piri chicken in Lisbon for a complete taste of Portuguese traditions.

For more travel inspiration and practical guides about experiencing Portugal like a local, explore our comprehensive destination resources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon

What is the difference between pastel de nata and pastel de Belém?

Technically, only the custard tarts made at the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém using the original 1837 secret recipe can be called “Pastéis de Belém.” All other versions, regardless of quality, should be called “pastéis de nata.” The original recipe at Belém is known only to three master bakers and has subtle differences in flavor, sweetness, and texture compared to other versions around Lisbon.

How much do pastéis de nata cost in Lisbon?

Pastéis de nata in Lisbon typically cost between €1.10 and €1.60 each. Neighborhood bakeries like Alcôa and Pastelaria Aloma offer the best value at €1.10-1.20, while premium locations like Pastéis de Belém and Confeitaria Nacional charge €1.50-1.60. Chain bakeries like Nata Lisboa and Fábrica da Nata average €1.30-1.40 per tart.

Where can I find the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon?

The best pastéis de nata in Lisbon can be found at Pastéis de Belém (the original), Manteigaria (modern artisanal), and Nata Lisboa (consistent quality). For authentic local experiences, try Alcôa or Pastelaria Aloma. For historic ambiance, visit Confeitaria Nacional. Each offers a different experience but all serve exceptional quality custard tarts.

Is it worth waiting in line at Pastéis de Belém?

Yes, visiting Pastéis de Belém is worth it at least once for the historic experience and to taste the original recipe. However, the wait can range from 15-45 minutes during peak hours. To minimize waiting: arrive before 9:30 AM, after 6:00 PM, or use the faster takeaway counter instead of sitting down. The quality justifies the wait, but if you’re short on time, Manteigaria or Nata Lisboa offer comparable quality without long queues.

What time of day are pastéis de nata freshest?

Pastéis de nata are freshest when consumed within 1-2 hours of baking. Most bakeries produce multiple batches throughout the day. The best times to find fresh pastéis are: morning (8:00-10:00 AM), afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM), and early evening (6:00-8:00 PM). Always ask “Tem pastéis quentinhos?” (Do you have warm pastéis?) to get the freshest batch. Avoid buying late at night when they may have been sitting for hours.

Should I eat pastéis de nata warm or cold?

Pastéis de nata should be eaten warm (mornos) or at room temperature for the best experience. The warmth enhances the custard’s creamy texture and brings out the buttery flavors in the pastry. Portuguese never eat them cold from the refrigerator. If you’ve stored them, reheat in an oven at 180°C (356°F) for 5-7 minutes – never use a microwave as it makes the pastry soggy.

Can I take pastéis de nata on a plane as souvenirs?

Yes! Pastéis de nata travel reasonably well for 24-48 hours at room temperature. Many bakeries, especially Pastéis de Belém, offer special packaging boxes designed for travel. Pack them in your carry-on luggage (they’re fine through security) and consume within 2 days for best quality. Some people successfully transport them in checked luggage with extra padding, though this risks crushing. Avoid refrigerating them during travel if possible.

Do Portuguese eat pastéis de nata for breakfast?

Yes, Portuguese commonly eat pastéis de nata for breakfast or as a mid-morning snack (typically between 8:00-11:00 AM) paired with coffee. It’s equally popular as an afternoon snack (lanche) between 3:00-6:00 PM. Eating a pastel de nata with a bica (espresso) or galão (Portuguese latte) is a beloved daily ritual for many Lisbon residents.

What’s the proper way to eat a pastel de nata?

The traditional Portuguese way to eat a pastel de nata: (1) Ensure it’s warm or room temperature, never cold; (2) Lightly sprinkle with ground cinnamon and/or powdered sugar (available at all bakeries); (3) Pair with coffee – traditionally a bica (espresso), meia de leite, or galão; (4) Take a generous bite to experience both the flaky pastry and creamy custard together. Don’t use a fork unless sitting formally in a café.

Are pastéis de nata gluten-free or vegan?

Traditional pastéis de nata are neither gluten-free nor vegan. They contain wheat flour (gluten), eggs, milk, and butter. However, some modern bakeries in Lisbon have started offering gluten-free and vegan versions, though these are rare and don’t taste like the authentic original. If you have dietary restrictions, ask specifically at larger chain locations like Nata Lisboa, which occasionally offers alternative versions.

How many pastéis de nata should I try in Lisbon?

For a proper experience, try pastéis de nata from at least 2-3 different bakeries to compare styles. Most visitors can comfortably eat 2-3 pastéis per day (one in the morning, one in the afternoon). If you’re doing a “pastel de nata tour,” pace yourself – each tart is rich and filling. Buy a box of 6 to take home or share with travel companions to sample different bakeries efficiently.

Can I watch pastéis de nata being made?

Yes! Manteigaria in Bairro Alto and Time Out Market has a fully visible open kitchen where you can watch the entire production process through glass windows. This includes rolling the dough, forming the layers, filling the molds, and baking. It’s fascinating to watch and adds to the experience. Most other bakeries produce pastéis in back kitchens not visible to customers.

📌 Save this guide to your Lisbon itinerary and share which bakery becomes your favorite in the comments below!