There’s nothing quite like ending a busy day exploring the city of Lisbon with a sweet treat from one of the city’s many delicious patisseries. Lisbon is brimming with a variety of bakeries serving up mouth-watering treats ranging from traditional Portuguese pastries to specialty French desserts. To help you decide which of Lisbon’s patisseries deserve your attention, here’s a list of the top sites sure to satisfy even the sweetest tooth.
Top Patisseries in Lisbon
When it comes to finding the best patisseries in Lisbon, the first place to look should be towards popular locations like Principe Real, Lapa, and Alfama. These districts have a long tradition of local bakeries, coffee shops, and cafes offering up some of the most unique bakery creations to be found in the city.
Best-Known Patisseries in Lisbon
- Confeitaria Nacional
Located in Baixa near Rossio Station, Confeitaria Nacional has been serving faithfully since 1829. Specializing in Portuguese pastries, this historic café is well known for its Beija-Flor, an almond-filled delicacy made with layers of flakey dough and dusted with cinnamon and sugar. In addition to classic treats, Confeitaria Nacional boasts a menu filled with goodies like cupcakes, éclairs, tartlets, and a variety of filled cakes.
- Pasteis de Belem
Located in Belem, Pasteis de Belem is one of the most beloved patisseries in Portugal. More than 50,000 pastels de nata (custard tarts) are created every day in this bakery, fulfilling the massive demand for these beloved treats. The traditional recipe of these tarts – made with a secret combination of cinnamon, sugar and egg custard – has remained the same since the 1800s and the bakery even offers cooking classes to the curious visitor.
- Nata Lisboa
Nata Lisboa is another patisserie frequently seen all over Lisbon, with more than 12 locations throughout the city. Much like its competitors, Nata serves up traditional treats like pasteis de Belem and also offers more daring options like salted caramel cupcakes and lemon meringue tartlets. An extensive savory menu rounds out Nata’s selection, offering dishes like savory pastels filled with sausage and cheese.
Gourmet Patisseries in Lisbon
If you’re looking to take your Lisbon sweet tooth to the next level, consider visiting one of the city’s many gourmet patisseries. Here’s a look at some of the best you’ll find around Lisbon.
- Pão de Açucar
Established in 2006, Pão de Açucar has become one of Lisbon’s most beloved patisseries for their inventive creations. Serving up everything from specialty cakes and cupcakes to tarts and gelato, their menu is sure to satisfy all kinds of cravings. Popular menu items include a three-tiered chocolate cake, raspberry-filled chocolate cupcakes, and raspberry and white chocolate cheesecake.
- Joana Pacheco
Elevating the classic Portuguese pastry to new heights, Joana Pacheco creates intricate, contemporary-style pasties in her shop inside the Chiado Food Hall. In addition to the traditional pasties de nata, Pacheco is known for creating unique flavors like almond, lemon, pumpkin and fig. Those wanting to take a piece of her desserts home can purchase her signature tarts, cakes and even puddings by the jar.
- Claudio Correia
Since opening in 2004, Claudio Correia has become one of the leading patisseries in Lisbon. The pastisseria offers a delicious variety of treats, both classic Portuguese as well as inventive international creations. Standout items include pistachio maffin, banana and Nutella chou, lemon meringue cake, and a wide selection of tarts.
Finally, for the ultimate in Portuguese indulgence, there’s no better choice than the local favorite, the travesseiro pillow. Make sure you to look for this decadent pastry featuring two layers of almond meringue filled with a creamy egg yolk centre.
A Sweet Retreat
Whether you’re a fan of traditional Portuguese pastries or want to try something new, Lisbon’s many patisseries offer a sweet retreat for any visitor. With so many unique options, there’s something sure to please even the most discerning of sweet tooths. So go ahead, satisfy your craving and enjoy one of Lisbon’s many delicious baking creations.
