Nestled in the historic district of Belém, Lisbon, Pastéis de Belém is a celebrated bakery café famed for crafting the original Pastel de Belém — a luscious Portuguese egg custard tart with a perfectly crispy, flaky crust. Since 1837, this large, airy establishment has been delighting locals and travelers alike with its authentic recipes and warm hospitality. Beyond its legendary pastries, the café offers a variety of traditional Portuguese breads and baked goods, making it a must-visit culinary landmark on your Lisbon itinerary.
Expert craftsmanship and heritage combine to create the famous custard tart that is both creamy and crispy— a true gastronomic treasure. The cafe’s tradition dates back nearly two centuries, and the original secret custard recipe is still guarded by a select few pastry chefs.
Visitors often praise how the desserts are larger than their online photos suggest, providing great value without compromising on quality. The café manages busy crowds with an efficient system to keep the flow smooth, even during peak hours. Friendly staff, including memorable employees like Fernando, make service seamless with impressive order accuracy.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick takeaway or enjoying breakfast with a coffee inside, Pastéis de Belém caters to all preferences. The café serves breakfast and dessert with a cozy ambiance, perfect for groups or solo travelers. Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair access and clean restrooms available.
- Takeaway available – convenient for those on the go wanting to savor these delicious tarts elsewhere.
- Multiple payment options including credit cards and NFC, ensuring ease and security for visitors.
- Parking options – paid street and lot parking make it accessible for drivers.
- What are the opening hours of Pastéis de Belém? Pastéis de Belém operates daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Is there a takeaway option available? Yes, there is a dedicated takeaway service for customers wishing to purchase pastries to go.
- Do they accept credit cards? Yes, Pastéis de Belém accepts various credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
- Is the establishment wheelchair accessible? Yes, the establishment is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all visitors.
- Are there vegetarian options available? Yes, there are vegetarian options available, including the famous Pastel de Belém.
Pastéis de Belém enjoys a glowing reputation for offering what many consider the best Portuguese custard tarts in Lisbon. Guests consistently praise the creamy, smooth custard filling paired with the crisp pastry shell. The staff’s attentive and friendly service, along with unbeatable prices, enhances the overall experience.
While the café can get quite busy, especially around opening time, visitors appreciate the efficient queue management and the quick service throughput. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a fantastic spot to discover authentic Portuguese flavors and enjoy a memorable culinary experience in Lisbon’s quaint Belém neighborhood.
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Belém in Lisbon, Portugal, Pastéis de Belém stands as a historic beacon of Portuguese culinary tradition since its establishment in 1837. This iconic bakery is internationally celebrated for its legendary custard tarts - the so-called Pastéis de Belém - revered for their perfectly crisp and flaky pastry shell enveloping a rich, creamy egg custard center. The recipe has remained a closely guarded secret for nearly two centuries, adding an aura of mystery and prestige that continuously attracts food lovers and curious travelers worldwide.
The story of Pastéis de Belém begins in 1837 when the bakery was founded in Lisbon. Since then, it has remained a steadfast custodian of Portuguese pastry heritage. Visitors today can still experience the same authentic taste that has delighted generations, a direct link to the city's rich history and culinary artistry.
- 1837: Pastéis de Belém was established in Lisbon, Portugal, marking the birth of a timeless culinary landmark.
- 2024: The bakery continues to operate, delighting locals and tourists alike with its iconic pastries, maintaining a unique blend of tradition and quality.
Over the years, Pastéis de Belém has evolved into more than just a bakery; it’s a cultural icon where the past and present blend seamlessly. The bakery’s commitment to preserving the original recipe while welcoming visitors with warm hospitality has earned it a legendary status among food enthusiasts. Whether you are savoring the tart in their spacious, airy café or taking it to go, the experience is unforgettable and deeply rooted in Lisbon’s heritage.
Located in the charming neighborhood of Belém, Lisbon, Pastéis de Belém is a renowned café and bakery famous for its authentic Portuguese custard tarts, known as Pastéis de Nata. Established in 1837, this iconic establishment attracts locals and tourists alike, offering a delightful taste of Portuguese culinary tradition.
With a spacious and airy interior, the café provides a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy a variety of pastries, snacks, and beverages. The establishment's secret recipe has been passed down through generations, ensuring that each tart is crafted with high-quality ingredients and traditional methods.
Visitors can indulge in the creamy, crispy delights of the Pastéis de Nata, which are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. The café also offers a range of other Portuguese baked goods, making it a perfect stop for anyone looking to experience the local flavors.
Overall, Pastéis de Belém is a must-visit destination for anyone in Lisbon, combining history, quality, and a taste of Portugal's rich culinary heritage.
Pros
• Authentic Portuguese custard tarts made from a secret recipe since 1837
• Wide variety of pastries, snacks, toasts, sandwiches, and beverages
• Offers both takeout and sit-in services
• Located near the Jerónimos Monastery, a popular tourist attraction
• High-quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods
Cons
• Service can be brisk due to high demand
• Long queues during peak hours
• Limited seating during busy times
Ideal for
• Sweet tooth enthusiasts looking for the best Pastéis de Nata
• Tourists visiting the Jerónimos Monastery
• Anyone looking to experience authentic Portuguese pastries
Things to know before visiting
• Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on weekends
• The café accepts both cash and card payments
• Parking is available nearby, but it may require a fee
Overall impression
Pastéis de Belém stands as a testament to Lisbon's rich culinary heritage. With its delicious pastries and inviting atmosphere, it is a delightful stop for anyone exploring the city. While the queues may be long, the experience of savoring these iconic tarts is well worth the wait.
For a true taste of Lisbon, make sure to visit Pastéis de Belém and indulge in their legendary custard tarts.
