When it comes to visiting Lisbon, indulging in a pastel de nata is an absolute must. This iconic Portuguese custard tart, with its perfectly crispy pastry and creamy filling, is a treat you simply can’t miss. From hidden gems to the classics, we’ve scoured the city to bring you a list of the best spots to savor this delicious pastry.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pastel de nata enthusiast, these places are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the best pastel de natas Lisbon has to offer!
Best Pastel De Nata in Lisbon
Manteigaria
Fresh, crispy pastel de nata made on the spot in Chiado.
@nickzachary / @Yu-Ting CHIU
If you’re in Lisbon and hunting for the best pastel de nata, Manteigaria in Chiado is a must-visit. Yeah, it gets busy, but don’t let that stop you— the line moves fast, and it’s totally worth the wait. The tarts are made fresh right there on the spot, so you know you’re getting the real deal. Watching the process of making these sweet treats adds to the experience, showing just how original they are.
The pastel de nata here is incredible. The pastry is super crisp, the filling is perfectly custardy, and if you’re into a little extra sweetness, they have powdered sugar and cinnamon to sprinkle on top. It’s definitely one of the best we’ve had in Lisbon. If Chiado is too packed, you can also check out their other location on Rua Augusta, a shopping street in Baixa-Chiado.
Fábrica da Nata
Crispy and sweet tarts with cozy seating in Baixa-Chiado.
@Fábrica da Nata / @bestinlisbon_
Fábrica da Nata in Baixa-Chiado is another great spot for pastel de nata in Lisbon. The crust is perfectly crispy and layered, while the custard filling is soft, sweet, and just melts in your mouth. Some might find the filling a tad too sweet, but if that’s your vibe, then this is a perfect match. You can also pair them with their good coffees or a hot sandwich. The staff here is super friendly, and we especially enjoyed chatting with Mauro.
The atmosphere is also a highlight—there’s outdoor seating, but if you want a cozier vibe, head upstairs. The second floor has cute balconies with views over the bustling streets below, making it a great place for a nice chat and snack. They also have another location in Restauradores with outdoor seating if you’re in that area.
Castro
Hidden gem near the famous elevator serving buttery, flaky tarts.
@Aleksandra Danilova / @Allan
Castro in Baixa-Chiado is an amazing café that more people should know about. It’s right across from the bottom of the famous elevator landmark (Santa Justa lift), so you get a great view of the sights while enjoying your pastel de nata. Surprisingly, there was no line when we visited, which is rare for such a quality spot.
We’d argue this is one of the best pastel de natas in Lisbon. The pastry is perfectly flaky and crispy, while the filling is creamy, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying. The interior has a vibrant yet classic elegance that makes you want to stay awhile. Plus, the outdoor seating is perfect for watching the world go by as you relax on your Lisbon adventure.
Another cool thing about Castro is that you can see the pastel de natas being made right in front of you!
Pastéis de Belém
The original pastel de nata experience in Belém with a secret recipe.
@ Eugênio Paccelli da Silva Horta / @pasteisbelem
Pastéis de Belém in Belém is the classic spot for Portugal’s famous tarts, made with a secret recipe passed down from the nearby monastery. We really enjoyed our afternoon tea/coffee time here. Yes, there’s usually a line, but it moves quickly, and the staff is friendly and helpful, making the wait more bearable. Sometimes, you might have to wait around 20 minutes, but if the weather’s nice, it’s not too bad.
Once you’re seated, the digital menu makes it super easy to order, and there are plenty of tables available. The service is quick, though some items might sell out if you visit later in the day. The pastel de Belém itself is fantastic—creamy, warm, and moist inside with a crunchy exterior. The waiter suggested we add sugar and cinnamon, and it really took the flavor up a notch.
It’s a tourist hotspot, so it does get crowded, especially during peak season. We recommend going early or later in the day to avoid the rush. Overall, it’s highly recommended if you’re in Lisbon—this is where the original pastel de nata experience all started!
Lisbon is a city that takes its pastel de nata seriously, and after tasting your way through these top spots, you’ll see why. Each place offers its own unique take on this beloved pastry, whether it’s the crispiness of the crust, the creaminess of the filling, or the ambiance of the café itself.
So, next time you find yourself in Lisbon, make sure to treat yourself to one—or several—of these divine custard tarts. After all, no trip to Portugal is complete without experiencing the magic of a freshly baked pastel de nata.
