Lisbon’s Must-Try Sweet Treat: The Famous Custard Tarts
Lisbon, a city known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural tapestry, is home to one of the world’s most beloved desserts—the pastel de nata. This crispy, creamy custard tart has been a hallmark of Portuguese culinary tradition for centuries, and no trip to the capital is complete without tasting one. Found in nearly every bakery across Lisbon, the pastel de nata is a sweet symbol of the city’s deep connection to its monastic past and its love of simple, yet delicious, food.
From its humble beginnings to its status as a global sensation, the pastel de nata offers both a taste of history and a delightful treat for those who seek out the finest pastries. Let’s explore the story behind these famous tarts, discover how they are made, and point you to two of the best places in Lisbon to enjoy them: Pastéis de Belém and Manteigaria.
The Origins of Pastel de Nata
The origins of the pastel de nata can be traced back to the 19th century in the district of Belém. Here, monks from the Jerónimos Monastery began making these custard-filled pastries to use up the leftover egg yolks that were abundant after egg whites were used for starching clothes. The monks developed a recipe for a rich, creamy custard enclosed in delicate, flaky pastry, and the pastel de nata was born.
By the 1820s, when the monastery faced financial struggles, the monks began selling these pastries to help support the convent. In 1837, the recipe was passed on to a local sugar refinery, which opened a bakery that continues to make the tarts to this day. Now known as Pastéis de Belém, this bakery is the most famous producer of the pastry, and it’s here where the tradition of Lisbon’s custard tarts truly took off.
The Recipe: A Blend of Simplicity and Skill
Though the ingredients of pastel de nata are simple—egg yolks, sugar, milk, flour, and butter—the process of making them is an art form. The key to a perfect pastel de nata is the balance between the crisp, flaky layers of pastry and the creamy, caramelized custard filling. After the pastry is rolled thin and formed into tart shells, the custard is poured in and the tarts are baked at high temperatures until the tops blister and caramelize, creating that signature golden-brown finish.
Served warm and often topped with a dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar, each bite offers a delightful contrast between the crunchy pastry and the rich, velvety custard inside. Simple yet divine, the pastel de nata is proof that sometimes, the best desserts are the ones that rely on time-honored techniques and fresh ingredients.
Where to Get the Best Custard Tarts in Lisbon
1. Pastéis de Belém: The Original Legend
If you want to experience the true original, head to Pastéis de Belém, where the iconic pastel de nata was first made. Located in the Belém neighborhood, this bakery has been serving up its famous custard tarts since 1837. The recipe, passed down from the monks of Jerónimos Monastery, remains a closely guarded secret, and the tarts here are known for their perfectly crispy crusts and silky custard.
The bakery’s bustling atmosphere is part of the experience, with locals and tourists alike lining up to sample these fresh-from-the-oven pastries. As you take your first bite of the warm tart, you’ll understand why Pastéis de Belém is considered the gold standard for custard tarts. Pair it with a coffee, sit back, and enjoy the historic ambiance of one of Lisbon’s most iconic culinary destinations.
2. Manteigaria: A Local Favorite with a Modern Twist
For another top-tier pastel de nata experience, head to Manteigaria, a modern bakery that has quickly become a favorite among locals. Located in several spots around Lisbon, including one in the Time Out Market, Manteigaria produces pastéis de nata that rival even the most historic bakeries. Though the recipe is more modern, the attention to detail and commitment to quality are undeniable.
What makes Manteigaria unique is its open kitchen, where you can watch the pastry-making process unfold in real time. The result is a pastel de nata with an ultra-crispy pastry shell and a perfectly smooth custard filling, served piping hot. Many locals pop in for a quick espresso and a tart, creating a bustling but friendly atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Lisbon.
A Journey Through Lisbon’s Sweet Traditions
Sampling the pastel de nata is a must for any visit to Lisbon. These small custard tarts are not just a dessert—they’re a symbol of the city’s history, culture, and culinary pride. Whether you savor them at the historic Pastéis de Belém or the contemporary Manteigaria, you’re tasting a piece of Lisbon’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Book a Custard Tart Tour with Portugal Magik Tours
To take your love for these tarts to the next level, consider booking a Half-Day Tour of Belem + Custard Tart Tasting with Portugal Magik Tours. This 3-hour private tour takes you on a delicious journey through Lisbon’s pastry history, with stops at iconic locations like Pastéis de Belém and other famous pastry shops like Manteigaria. You’ll get to taste the best of the best while learning about the fascinating history behind these cherished treats.
Your expert guide will provide insights into how the pastéis de nata became such a central part of Lisbon’s culinary tradition, and you’ll enjoy fresh samples along the way. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and sweet indulgence, making it a highlight of any Lisbon itinerary.
Ready to experience the best custard tarts Lisbon has to offer? Book your Half-Day Tour of Belem + Custard Tart Tasting with Portugal Magik Tours today, and discover the true magic behind Lisbon’s most iconic dessert!
Founder/Owner of The Lisbon Guide, one of the major blog references in Portugal, established in 2014 and receiving every year 250.000 visitors from all over the world, looking to provide the best experiences in Portugal. In partnership with Portugal Magik for all private tours and transfers across Portugal, Gonzalo loves a good seafood meal at Monte Mar Cascais, and all from Michelin Chef Avillez. Favorite Hotel in Lisbon/Portugal, Penha Longa Resort by Ritz Carlton.
For over 15 years, Gonzalo have been helping thousands of travelers yearly to plan a perfect trip to Portugal. Based in Lisbon/Cascais and working in this field for over 20 years, with multiple ongoing projects. Also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide.
Many years working also as a Private Guide of Lisbon, Sintra, Fatima, Porto, Douro Valley, Evora, and other locations in Portugal.
