Last updated: 25 October 2026
A pastel de nata, or Portuguese custard tart, is one of Lisbon’s simplest pleasures: crisp pastry, creamy custard and, if you like, a dusting of cinnamon. Locals often order simply a “nata”; the plural is pastéis de nata.
These five pastry shops offer a good introduction, from historic establishments to specialists focused on the tart itself. Try more than one if you have time: pastry texture, sweetness and the balance of custard all make the comparison worthwhile.
1) Pastéis de Belém
Best for: a historic pastry stop in Belém.
Founded in 1837, Pastéis de Belém has a history tied to the nearby Jerónimos Monastery. Its tarts are known specifically as pastéis de Belém, making this a distinctive stop rather than just another place to order a nata.
Allow a little time rather than treating it as a quick takeaway stop. If there is a queue, ask staff which line is for takeaway and which is for table service. You can also admire the monastery’s exterior while exploring the neighbourhood.
2) Manteigaria
Best for: a custard-tart stop around Chiado.
Manteigaria is a natural choice when you are exploring central Lisbon and want to keep your pastry stop close to your walking route. Its Rua do Loreto address puts it conveniently near Chiado.
The focus here is the pastel de nata itself. Order one with a coffee and take a moment to appreciate the contrast between the flaky shell and soft filling. If you would prefer a warm tart, ask whether a fresh batch is available rather than assuming every one will be straight from the oven.
3) NATA LISBOA
Best for: trying a more recent name in Portugal’s pastry scene.
This project dates to 2011, offering a younger counterpoint to Lisbon’s historic pastry houses. Its slogan, “The World Needs Nata”, makes its speciality clear.
NATA LISBOA earns a place on this list as another way to compare the familiar combination of pastry and custard. Before making a special journey, check the brand’s official shop listings for a convenient location and its current opening hours.
4) Confeitaria Nacional
Best for: a traditional pastry-house stop near Rossio.
Founded in 1829, Confeitaria Nacional is one of Lisbon’s historic confectioneries. Its setting on Praça da Figueira makes it an easy addition to a walk through the centre.
Unlike a specialist nata shop, this is a place to appreciate the wider world of Portuguese cakes and pastries too. Start with the custard tart if that is your mission, but leave a little room for whatever else catches your eye at the counter.
5) Pastelaria Aloma
Best for: pairing a pastry stop with time in Campo de Ourique.
Founded in 1943 in Campo de Ourique, Aloma has longstanding neighbourhood roots. Its custard tarts won Lisbon competition recognition in 2012, 2013 and 2015, useful background rather than a guarantee of anyone’s personal favourite.
The original neighbourhood connection is part of its appeal. If you are heading to a particular branch, confirm its location through Aloma’s official channels first rather than relying on older shop lists.
Plan Your Custard-Tart Stops
- Keep it relaxed: choose a shop near your sightseeing route instead of trying to cover all five in one day.
- Taste first: try a bite before adding cinnamon or sugar.
- Check before setting out: use each shop’s official website or official social channels for current locations, opening hours and service arrangements.
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