Ask anyone what to eat in Lisbon, Portugal, and they’ll likely tell you pastel de nata. Indeed, the famous Portuguese custard tart – puff pastry, egg, milk and sugar, with a touch of cinnamon spice – is perhaps the country’s biggest culinary export. But forget those claggy ones you’ve had off some subpar place on the British high street. The real deal is a different beast entirely.
It’s worth making the journey to Belem, a 45 minute tram trip, to sample the goods served at Pastéis De Belém; they began making the tart in 1837 according to a secret, ancient recipe from the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and lay claim (‘arguably’…don’t @us) to being the first commercial operation to do so.
But custard tarts aren’t the only reason to visit Belem; it’s simply a gorgeous, laid back escape from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon proper. The historic Torre De Belem sits right on the water, at the entrance to the city, and is a stunning structure. Expect lengthy queues accordingly.
If you don’t have the time for that jaunt west in search of sweet treat heaven, then Manteigaria, a custard tart factory with a stall in the Mercado da Ribeira, serves up some of the best custard tarts in town. Their second joint – the original – is on the corner of Largo de Camoes.
Website: pasteisdebelem.pt
Address: R. de Belém 84 92, 1300-085 Lisboa, Portugal
