Pasteleria de Belém

The Pasteleria de Belém, located in the picturesque neighborhood of Belém in Lisbon, is much more than just a pastry shop: it is a true cultural and gastronomic institution of Portugal. Founded in 1837, this pastry shop is famous worldwide for its pastéis de Belém, also known as pastéis de nata, delicious treats made of custard wrapped in a crispy pastry. The history of these treats is deeply intertwined with the history of the city and the nearby Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. The story of the pastéis de Belém begins in the early 19th century, during a period of great changes for Portugal. Following the Liberal Revolution of 1820 and the subsequent closure of monasteries in 1834, the monks of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, facing financial difficulties, started selling these treats to support themselves. The secret recipe, carefully guarded and passed down orally, ended up in the hands of a local entrepreneur, who in 1837 founded the pastry shop to continue the tradition. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Pasteleria de Belém is the mystery surrounding its recipe. Only a select few pastry chefs, carefully chosen, know the exact formula to create these pastéis. Production takes place in an area called “Oficina do Segredo” (Secret Workshop), where thousands of treats are prepared daily using selected ingredients and artisanal techniques. The combination of velvety custard and perfectly golden pastry makes these pastéis unique. Every day, the pastry shop sells between 15,000 and 50,000 pieces, depending on the season and tourist influx. Entering the Pasteleria de Belém is like taking a step back in time. The rooms are decorated in traditional style, with walls adorned with azulejos, the typical ceramic tiles of Portugal, telling stories of a bygone era. The cozy and authentic atmosphere of the place invites visitors to stop, enjoy a coffee, and savor one (or more) freshly baked pastéis de Belém. The pastry shop has become a meeting point not only for tourists but also for Lisbon residents. It is a place where you can observe the daily life of the city, with a constant flow of people coming in to buy treats to take home or to sit at the tables and enjoy a tasty break. The Pasteleria de Belém is also known for its quick and efficient service, despite the long lines that often form at the entrance. A distinctive element of the pastéis de Belém is their unique flavor, the result of a perfect harmony between sweetness and crispiness. The custard is soft and rich, with a delicate vanilla aroma and a hint of lemon, while the pastry is light and crumbly. These treats are often served warm, freshly baked, and traditionally dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon, adding a spicy note that enhances their taste.