The Pastéis de Belém: Lisbon's Custard Tart Temptation
The pastéis de Belém are one of the most recognized traditional desserts of Portugal. This small puff pastry tart with a creamy and slightly caramelized filling has a texture, aroma, and flavor that will captivate you from the very first bite. (Check this article to find out where to taste them in Lisbon).
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When you’re in Lisbon, it’s impossible not to notice little cream pastries in the windows of the numerous cafes scattered throughout the city. They originate from a pastry shop called Pastéis de Belém, located in the homonymous district, and the only one that serves the original recipe. It's definitely in the top of the list of things to do in Belém.
You may not know that Christopher Columbus passed through Belém on his way back to Europe after discovering the New World, but you’re about to discover all about these delicious pastries: their history, where to eat them, and what to see in Belém.
History of Pastéis de Belém
Lisbon is the original home of Pastéis de Belém, a gem of Portuguese pastry created in the early 18th century by Catholic monks from the Jerónimos Monastery, located in the parish of Belém, west of the city along the Tagus River.
Legend has it that at that time, it was common for convents and monasteries to use a large number of egg whites to starch clothes, leading to the need to find a way to utilize the leftover egg yolks. Thus, with a bit of ingenuity, this famous typical sweet of Portugal was born.
Aspect of the traditional Pastéis de Belém
After the Liberal Revolution of 1820, religious orders were disbanded, and many of these communities were closed. Given the situation, the monks began to sell Pastéis de Belém in a small nearby shop to earn some money, and they quickly gained immense popularity.
So much so that people would do anything to try them, considering that Belém was far from Lisbon at that time, and the only way to get there was by steam boats, but the distance didn’t seem to matter at all.
However, the monastery was closed in 1834, and the “secret recipe” was sold to merchant Domingos Rafael Alves, the owner of a sugar refinery, who opened the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém in 1837, which has remained in operation to this day.
Nearly 200 years later, they are still made with a strict selection of ingredients and according to the same recipe, which has been passed down from generation to generation. On the list of things to do in Lisbon, trying one of these delights is a must.
Where to Eat Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon
The Factory of the Original Pastéis de Belém
The fact that the authentic Pastéis de Belém are prepared in only one place with the original recipe has led many to attempt to replicate them. In fact, you can find them in other pastry shops in Belém, Lisbon, as well as in other countries around the world such as China, the United States, Brazil, and Argentina, but under the name “pastéis de nata.”
To experience and taste the authentic Pastel de Belém, you must go to the place where they have been baked and sold for almost 200 years: the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém.
This iconic place with white and blue tiles prepares about 20,000 units per day, and during high-demand days or seasons, it can easily double its production. You’re likely to find a long line filled with locals and tourists eager to eat the original pastries, but we promise it’s totally worth it. It’s located at Rua de Belém nº 84 to 92, 1300 – 085 Lisbon.
Now, if you’re curious to know if there’s really any difference between the original Pastel de Belém and its replica, the pastel de nata, you can visit Confiteira Nacional Belém, Manteigaria, or Padaria Portuguesa, all located very nearby, where they are also very good.
Your search for a delicious Pastel de Belém could also take place in the Alfama neighborhood, which will welcome you with open arms. Try it at Pastelarias Santo António, Alfama Doce, and Alfacinha, which are some of the most recognized in the area.
What to See in Belém
The Jerónimos Monastery in Belém
Day trips from Lisbon are an excellent option for tourists who want to connect even more with the history, tradition, and charms of Portugal. If you travel to the city with little time to spare, that won’t be an excuse not to visit Belém.
Two of the most important tourist and historical attractions in the country are in Belém: the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower. Along with them, the Monument to the Discoveries completes the top 3 places to see in Belém.
We recommend complementing this experience with a walking tour of Lisbon, where you will get to know the three most iconic squares in the city: Rossio, Praça da Figueira, and the incredible Praça do Comércio. Additionally, you will visit a viewpoint in Alfama and taste an authentic Portuguese tapa with a glass of wine. What could be better?
Be sure to explore the area by joining a Free Walking Tour of Belém, a chance to see Belém on a budge with an English speaking guide.
How to Get to belém
• By tram: Take tram 15E from Praça da Figueira, right next to Rossio Square. We recommend getting off at Mosteiro Jerónimos or Largo da Princesa.
• By train: The suburban train to Cascais is another option to reach Belém. You can board the train from Cais do Sodré station to Belém, which is just three stops away.
• By bus: You can take number 714 that leaves from Praça da Figueira; board the 728 that stops in front of Cais do Sodré train station; or the 727 on Rua Braamcamp, next to the Marquês de Pombal roundabout.
Any of these options is perfect if you want to get there on your own. However, a guided tour of Belém could give you the chance to see the most important areas in an air-conditioned bus with a local guide in Spanish. Sounds good, right?
Lisbon will captivate you from the moment you walk through its streets. Make your trip an unforgettable experience with our Lisbon excursions and tours in English, and discover the best of the Portuguese capital and its surroundings.
Fado Show in Lisbon with Traditional Portuguese Dinner
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Best of Lisbon Walking Tour: Pastel de Nata, Tapa and Wine Tasting