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Complete Guide: The Best Pastéis de Nata in Porto

Philippe Nopel 09/04/2026
Complete Guide: The Best Pastéis de Nata in Porto
Photo: Olivier Chatel

Pastéis de nata are one of the greatest symbols of Portuguese pastry — and in Porto there's no shortage of places to try them. But between historic cafés, artisan bakeries and new ateliers dedicated exclusively to the nata, the question is unavoidable: where are the best pastéis de nata in the city, really? In this guide we take you on a route that blends tradition and innovation, with stops inside and beyond the Invicta city, to discover truly memorable natas. Get ready for a journey… hard to forget.

There are two types of pastéis de nata

Before we dive into the list, it's worth talking about something many people don't consider: there are two types of pastéis de nata. There are the ones we've eaten our whole lives — made the night before or in the early hours, sitting cold in the display case — and then there are those served fresh, piping hot, with the puff pastry still crispy and crunchy.

The difference is staggering. A pastel de nata fresh out of the oven is a completely different experience from one that has cooled down. Even so, some still prefer the more traditional style: a nata with less runny custard, richer in egg, with a less thin, less delicate pastry — the kind often made the day before, but which keeps a character all of its own.

Some argue that these new shops dedicated to natas — like the first ones on this article's list — don't actually have better natas than the traditional Porto-style nata. Of course they still enjoy them: they're constantly coming out warm, and that wins anyone over. But, in truth, the natas of old have something different about them.

In the Costa Cabral area, there used to be several confectioneries, and they had those more traditional versions — the so-called "tigelinhas de creme" (little custard bowls). Some prefer them to the much-talked-about Lisbon natas.

And what about the eternal comparison with "Pastéis de Belém"? We don't see any meaningful difference between the famous Lisbon pastries and a quality pastel de nata made with care. It might be a lack of palate on our part, or perhaps just regional pride from our colleagues in the capital. What matters is that Porto has natas on par with the best in the country.

Don't believe us? You'll find out in this article.

Want to make Pastéis de Nata at home?

Before we move on to the pastéis de nata made by kitchen professionals, here's a video by Paulo Oliveira, a well-known YouTuber who shares the most authentic recipes you can make at home.

In this video, Paulo explains that, although he isn't much of a sweet tooth, pastéis de nata are his big exception. He considers them a perfect combination, but also one of the hardest pastries to get right, mainly because they require a very hot oven to guarantee a crunchy base and a creamy filling without overbaking. That's why he decides to test the recipe in two different ovens: a gas pizza oven with a stone base, and a domestic electric oven, to compare the results.

Throughout the video, he first prepares the homemade puff pastry, explaining the resting time, the various folds with butter, and the importance of keeping the dough cold between each step. Then he makes the custard, split into two parts: a milk base flavoured with lemon and cinnamon, and a lightly caramelised sugar syrup that adds more depth to the filling. At the end, he assembles the pastéis, fills the moulds and bakes them in a very hot oven.

After the tests, he concludes that making pastéis de nata at home is possible, but that the oven temperature makes all the difference. The best results come from very high temperatures, ideal for creating the necessary thermal shock. Although he admits his weren't perfect, he's happy with the flavour and shows that, with a bit of patience, anyone can make pastéis de nata at home.

Give it a try, and let us know in the comments how it went. We want to know! If they turn out fantastic, we want to hear all your tips!

What are ALL the options?

Central Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia

On the map below you'll find the spots in central Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia most often cited online as the "best".

These include both classic and vegan options.

The blue pins represent pastelarias and cafés in Porto whose pastéis de nata are frequently cited online as among the best in the city.

The biggest concentration is in the Baixa and the Historic Centre, where many of the most famous spots are found — but there are great surprises scattered all around the city (and beyond). You'll see which ones further on.

And in the list below the map, you'll find for each spot:

  • The name of the spot
  • Ratings, where available (with average score and number of reviews on Google Maps)
  • A short description of the experience
  • A link to see further details

Surroundings and Greater Porto

Summary

The best-known names

So, among the places featured in this list, here's a summary of the most well-known and frequently cited as the best:

  • Manteigaria — hugely popular, open production, fully focused on the classic pastel de nata
  • Castro – Atelier de Pastéis de Nata — frequently singled out as the best in the city, open production, modern atmosphere with focus on the experience
  • Fábrica da Nata — a more touristy experience, consistent and well located, with an open kitchen too
  • Natas d'Ouro — recognised quality and a Vila Nova de Gaia location, with several pastel de nata variations
  • Nata Lisboa — a chain with a solid reputation
  • Café Majestic — worth it both for the pastel and the historic experience
  • Confeitaria do Bolhão, Padaria Ribeiro and Confeitaria Aliança — traditional houses with decades (or centuries) of history

Modern and niche options

For those who want to step off the obvious tourist trail, we highlight these spots — they offer a more modern take, or stand out for something specific:

  • Vegan pastéis de nata — Odete Bakery, A Padoca do Rosário and Guará (in Vila Nova de Gaia)
  • Artisan bakeries — Brites and Café 55, both with excellent homemade pastry

How to use this guide

More than a list, this is a small treasure map for hunting down the best pastel de nata in Porto. We put it together to help you:

  • Discover the best pastéis de nata in town, whether you're a tourist or a local
  • Compare experiences — traditional vs. modern, touristy vs. local
  • Build your own foodie route at your own pace

Classic and traditional

And now, without further ado, let's go through each of the classic options in detail.

Manteigaria

Located near Mercado do Bolhão, Manteigaria is an obligatory stop for pastel de nata lovers. Inspired by the original recipe, their pastéis are among the best in the country — the pastry is buttery and crunchy, and the custard is silky and slightly sweet.

This place has the distinctive feature of an open kitchen, where you can watch the pastry chefs preparing new batches behind a glass wall. And they produce constantly, such is the demand from locals and tourists.

Eating natas warm makes all the difference, and Manteigaria is the right place if you want them perfect. At this location, they offer several tables where you can sit and enjoy your nata with a coffee or tea. Manteigaria also has a shop on Rua dos Clérigos, another excellent option.

If you're on the hunt for the best pastel de nata in Porto, adding Manteigaria to your list is a no-brainer. They're perfect.

Castro — Atelier de Pastéis de Nata

From 9am to 8pm, Castro produces some of the best pastéis de nata you can find in Porto and its surroundings on a daily basis.

Located on Rua Mouzinho da Silveira, near Palácio da Bolsa and Porto Cathedral, this atelier is one of the places you should keep in mind when you fancy treating yourself. The space is beautiful, modern and elegant — you can eat in with a coffee or hot chocolate, or grab a box to go.

Here, the custard is properly matured and the pastry is crunchy and crisp. The natas are served warm and melt in your mouth. If you've never tried them, it's well worth a visit.

Castro receives praise from both locals and travellers for the consistency of its quality. It's one of those places you return to again and again, and the nata never disappoints.

Fábrica da Nata

Located on the bustling Rua de Santa Catarina, Fábrica da Nata is another place you should consider when your sweet tooth calls. It's just steps from the famous Chapel of Souls and Mercado do Bolhão — you'll very likely walk past it during your stroll.

The filling is liquid, the custard fresh and the pastry crunchy. There's a lively energy when you walk in, thanks to the central location, but the space is large enough to find a seat or take away.

It's no surprise that this is one of the favourite pastéis de nata among Porto visitors.

Natas d'Ouro

This suggestion will let you try pastéis de nata in a completely different way. Natas d'Ouro stands out for offering unique flavours that we only found at this pastry shop in Porto.

Beyond the original version — which is delicious — you can try pastéis de nata flavoured with lemon, orange, chocolate and, no less, Port wine. It's something you rarely see and well worth trying.

The space has a calm and not-too-touristy atmosphere, in Porto's downtown (Baixa) area. You can sit and enjoy them at a leisurely pace, or grab a box with one of each flavour to try them all. If you like trying new things, this place is a true hidden gem.

Nata Lisboa

Rua das Flores is one of the most popular streets among Porto visitors, but it's also where you'll find pastéis de nata worth trying.

At Nata Lisboa, which also has a location on Rua de Santa Catarina, the pastéis de nata are creamy and the puff pastry is crisp. It's an already well-established brand on the national scene, with shops in Lisbon too, and consistently offers high-quality natas.

You can eat in or grab a box to snack on while exploring the city. If you're strolling through the historic centre, it's an excellent choice for a quick stop.

Nata Sweet Nata

Nata Sweet Nata has two popular cafés in Porto: one right in the Ribeira, by the Douro River, and another on Rua 31 de Janeiro, near São Bento Station. Both are easy to find during a walk around the city.

Beyond pastéis de nata, they offer drinks and breakfast options. The natas are warm, creamy and slightly sweet — the kind you could easily eat more than one of.

If you visit the café in Ribeira, you can take your natas and enjoy them by the river. It's one of the best spots in the city for a break with a view.

Nata de Mercado — Mercado do Bom Sucesso

In the heart of Boavista, Mercado do Bom Sucesso is one of Porto's most vibrant food spaces — and it's here that you'll find Nata de Mercado, a must-stop for anyone looking for freshly baked pastéis de nata.

The pastry is thin, flaky and crisp, and the custard has that rare balance between sweetness and buttery flavour. Nothing is overly sweet — they let the custard shine. Alongside the classic version, you'll also find bolder flavours like Nutella and raspberry, perfect for anyone who likes to step off the beaten path.

It's the ideal spot to pair with a good coffee and, since you're at Bom Sucesso, take the chance to try the other bites the market has to offer. A modern, lively alternative away from the more obvious routes of the historic centre.

Confeitaria do Bolhão

Strategically located, Confeitaria do Bolhão is one of the oldest in the city of Porto, having first opened its doors in the 19th century, in 1896. The interior still retains much of its original charm, with antique mirrors and vintage décor.

Want to find the locals' favourite? Confeitaria do Bolhão is it. This is an authentic reference point in the city, where you'll find the beloved pastéis de nata, but also other specialty products like cakes, croissants, regueifas and many more.

Being such an iconic spot, it can get crowded, especially in the morning. We recommend arriving early to secure a table. But it's worth it — the place is filled with an authentic atmosphere that makes you feel part of Porto's history.

Confeitaria São Domingos

If you're looking for a more traditional experience, Confeitaria São Domingos is a classic Portuguese bakery-café in the heart of Porto.

It has a cosy and not-too-touristy atmosphere — locals come here for bread, pastries and a quick coffee. The pastéis de nata are well made and honest, without any frills. It's also a great option for a more affordable breakfast, with sweet and savoury options at prices well below the trendier brunch cafés.

Café Majestic

If you want more than just a pastel de nata and are looking for a complete experience, Café Majestic is the place to go.

Located on Rua de Santa Catarina, this is one of Porto's most iconic cafés. It opened its doors in December 1922 and stands out for its elegant Art Nouveau design. The café boasts a marble façade, carved wood interiors, curved mirrors and stucco figures along the walls.

Once a meeting place for intellectuals, writers and artists, Café Majestic retains all its historic charm. The natas are delicious — warm, crunchy and creamy, just as they should be. Yes, prices are higher, but the experience justifies it.

We recommend going early in the morning, before it gets crowded, to enjoy the atmosphere at a relaxed pace. Sometimes it's about the experience, and this one will certainly be unique.

Brites — Artisan Bakery

Just a stone's throw from Praça do Marquês, Brites is an artisan bakery and pastry shop that deserves a leisurely visit. The display cases are a show of their own — golden pastries, classic croissants, traditional sweets and the shop's own inventive creations.

The pastéis de nata are solid — crisp pastry and well-executed custard — but Brites really stands out for its variety. It's worth trying the "Saturno," a house specialty inspired by classic Portuguese desserts: flaky pastry wrapped around a rich cream filling, with the crunchy accent of Maria biscuits.

If you're looking to pair your nata with a fuller breakfast, the pastrami and cream cheese croissant is another strong recommendation. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee competing with the scent of flaky pastry tells you right away you've come to the right place.

Padaria Royale

Padaria Royale wears its respect for tradition as a badge of honour — and you can taste it in the pastel de nata.

The dough is worked by hand and rolled into extremely thin layers, resulting in a light, flaky, crisp pastry. The custard is smooth, delicate and balanced, without excess. This isn't a place trying to reinvent the recipe — it's a place trying to execute it well, every single day.

For anyone who wants a pastel de nata made with care and served in the straightforward atmosphere of a Portuguese bakery, Royale is one of the safest choices in the city.

Padeirinha Doce

If you're looking for a local bakery with an authentic feel, Padeirinha Doce deserves a visit.

The biggest advantage? It opens at 6:30am. If you're fighting jet lag or need an early energy boost, this is the ideal spot. The bakery makes its own bread, cakes and a wide variety of pastries — the display is always full of fresh products in the morning: croissants, mil-folhas, éclairs and, of course, pastéis de nata.

The atmosphere isn't touristy, which gives it a genuinely local feel. It's centrally located and easy to find during a walk through historic Porto.

Pastelaria Tupi

If you're exploring downtown Porto and want an authentic spot full of personality, Pastelaria Tupi is an excellent choice.

What makes Tupi special is that they offer both traditional and vegan pastries — including vegan pastéis de nata. A great selection of pastries and a welcoming atmosphere — what more could you ask for?

They also have meal options, making it ideal for a quick breakfast. Being slightly off the usual tourist trail, Tupi has the feel of a genuine local bakery. It opens at 7am, which is handy for early risers.

Confeitaria Aliança

Another classic Portuguese bakery with genuine local charm. Confeitaria Aliança has been around for decades and is well known among Porto locals.

The space is cosy and unpretentious — just a place where you can get good pastries, bread and coffee. They also offer hot and cold drinks, toasts, sandwiches and salads.

One of the best things about Confeitaria Aliança is the value for money. Having a really good pastel de nata and a full breakfast without spending a fortune is always a treat.

Padaria Ribeiro

Founded in 1878, Padaria Ribeiro is one of Porto's historic shops that remains open to the public to this day.

With over a century of existence, this is a landmark of the Invicta city — but also an excellent option for anyone looking for delicious pastéis de nata in Porto. The tradition speaks for itself.

Café 55 — Near Serralves

A little off the more obvious tourist trail, Café 55 sits just a few minutes from the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art — exactly the kind of place to save for when you visit this part of Porto.

It's a small, independent café with its own bakery. The pastéis de nata live up to the reputation: crisp pastry, silky custard and served warm, as they should be. Beyond the natas, the rest of the menu is worth exploring — the €10 brunch (scrambled eggs, toasted sourdough, coffee and, of course, a freshly baked nata) is one of the best value-for-money experiences in the city.

Combine your visit with a walk through the Serralves gardens and you have a perfect plan for a morning in Porto.

Real by Casa da Calçada

For the more adventurous and curious, we have a special suggestion. If you stop by the Real By Casa da Calçada café, you'll find flavours different from the usual, but equally delicious:

  • Salted caramel
  • Chocolate
  • Red berries

These products are a creation of chef Emiliano Savio and pastry chef Mónica Cadavez. An option worth considering for those who like to go beyond the classics!

What about vegan options?

Odete Bakery — Vegan Natas in Porto

Small, welcoming and fully vegan, Odete Bakery is a hidden spot in the heart of Porto that's well worth a visit. The aroma of freshly baked pastries sets the tone the moment you step in.

The star of the show is the pastel de nata — a genuinely surprising vegan version that rivals the traditional in both texture and flavour. If you thought a nata without eggs or dairy couldn't match the classic, Odete might just change your mind.

A Padoca do Rosário Vegan

Also in central Porto, A Padoca do Rosário Vegan proves it's perfectly possible to make great pastéis de nata without any animal products. The pastry is crunchy, the custard has real body, and the sweetness is well balanced — you'd never guess it's a vegan version.

Beyond the natas, there's a varied selection of pastries, bread and meal options that make it a solid choice for breakfast or lunch. Relaxed atmosphere and genuine service.

Guará Restaurant & Bakery — Vila Nova de Gaia

Across the Douro in Vila Nova de Gaia, Guará is a fully vegan bakery and restaurant — and its pastéis de nata are among the best plant-based ones we've tried. The custard is silky, the pastry is light and flaky, and the flavour easily fools an unsuspecting palate.

The offer goes well beyond the nata: cakes, sophisticated donuts, savoury pastries, pizza and even a vegan francesinha worth the detour. Fair prices, warm service and a surprisingly complete gastronomic proposition. If you're visiting the Port wine cellars, it's a perfect stop.

Greater Porto

Restaurante Santo António, São Mamede de Infesta

A restaurant in Matosinhos, in the parish of São Mamede de Infesta. They serve them fresh from the oven after the meal, which is a big plus.

The pastry is crisp and the custard has a balanced flavour, without being too sweet. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for a meal with family or friends.

Doce d'Antas, Famalicão

It's worth carrying on past Porto's outskirts and heading a few kilometres up to Vila Nova de Famalicão — more precisely, to Doce d'Antas.

It's a small, unassuming bakery with genuinely friendly service and a display case where the pastéis de nata quietly steal the show. They're among the most flavourful versions you'll find off the usual tourist circuit, with crisp pastry and a carefully matured custard — the kind that calls for a generous dusting of cinnamon.

Beyond the natas, the bread and the rest of the pastry selection live up to the same standard. If you're travelling through the Vale do Ave region, take the detour. It's well worth it.

So, which are the best Pastéis de Nata in Porto?

It depends!

The vast majority of people on social media pick Castro as the place with the best pastéis de nata in Porto. But if we look at Google Maps, Manteigaria wins. It has the same 4.8/5 average, but more reviews. So these two options are in fact the most "beloved" by pastel de nata enthusiasts in Porto.

But let's look at them in detail.

Castro – Atelier de Pastéis de Nata is originally from Porto. The brand was born in Porto (around 2018) and that's where the first shops opened. Only later did it expand to other cities, including Lisbon. The brand emerged relatively recently (around 2018) and is part of a modern movement of nata-focused shops that elevate the product to a more "premium" and tourist-friendly level.

But Castro isn't a traditional pastry shop — it's a modern atelier focused exclusively on pastéis de nata, with visible production and a strong commitment to quality. It's one of the most popular spots in Porto for fresh, well-executed natas.

One of the things that sets Castro apart is the "atelier" concept: it's not just about eating a nata, it's about watching it being made.

What makes it interesting:

  • Open kitchen / live production
  • Modern, minimalist atmosphere
  • Focus on the sensory experience (smell, texture, freshness)

This makes it hugely popular with both locals and tourists.

Castro has a strong reputation:

  • Very high ratings (around 4.8/5)
  • Frequently listed among the best places to eat pastéis de nata in Porto
  • Produces natas throughout the day, meaning they're often served fresh from the oven

And according to various descriptions and reviews:

  • Crispy, light pastry
  • Balanced custard (neither too sweet nor too runny)
  • Served warm — which makes a huge difference to the experience

In the video above, Rafael Barbosa, who took part in MasterChef Portugal and finished in the Top 3 of the 2022 edition, picks Castro as his favourite, followed closely by Manteigaria.

Manteigaria – Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata is one of the best-known brands in Portugal when it comes to pastéis de nata — and perhaps the biggest modern "rival" to places like Castro. Manteigaria has a strong presence in both Porto and Lisbon, and is known for producing high-quality pastéis de nata using a recipe that stays true to tradition while adding a modern touch.

Manteigaria was born in Lisbon (Chiado) in 2014 and from the start went all-in on a very clear concept:

  • Producing only pastéis de nata
  • Doing everything on-site, in full view of the customer
  • Always serving natas straight from the oven

The name "Manteigaria" comes from an old butter shop that used to occupy the same Chiado location. The brand quickly expanded to other cities, including Porto.

Like Castro, it follows the "factory" model:

  • Open kitchen with continuous production
  • Bells ringing every time a fresh batch comes out 🔔
  • Simple atmosphere focused on the product (it's not a traditional pastry shop full of options)

The shops tend to have heavy turnover — many people buy and eat at the counter or take their pastéis to go.

In the video below, by the author "Activities In Portugal", Castro and Manteigaria are highlighted as some of the best places to eat pastéis de nata in Porto, although the author says her absolute favourite is Castro.

The video opens by introducing Porto as a city known for its rich history, striking architecture, warm people and, of course, its culinary delights. Among those delights, the famous pastel de nata stands out — and the goal of the video is to find the best place to eat one in Porto.

The first stop is Natas D'Ouro, a popular pastry shop in Vila Nova de Gaia, known for its artisanal pastéis de nata. It's a relatively modern venue compared to some of the city's historic houses, and quickly earned a reputation for the quality of its products. Beyond the classic pastel de nata, it also offers different flavour variations. The author tries the Port wine version. She finds it tasty, though not the best she's ever had. Still, she highlights the excellent location by the river.

Next comes Nata Sweet Nata, a small artisanal shop tucked away in a very pretty area. The pastéis aren't baked on-site, so they weren't as fresh as at other stops, but they were still considered delicious. The real strength of this stop is the location and the wonderful view — ideal for enjoying the pastry outdoors.

The third stop is Castro, which we've already mentioned, known for its modern take on this traditional pastry. The pastéis de nata are made fresh every day following a secret family recipe. The video highlights the crunchy, flaky pastry and the rich, creamy filling. The shop has a contemporary, minimalist design with an open kitchen that lets you watch the pastry chefs at work. That blend of tradition and modernity makes the experience even more special.

Next up is Manteigaria, also already mentioned, a hugely popular address with locals and tourists alike. The pastéis are baked throughout the day, guaranteeing freshness, crispy pastry and a creamy, caramelised filling. The open kitchen is part of the experience too. However, the shop has no seating, so the author takes her pastel to eat outside, near the Torre dos Clérigos.

The last stop is Confeitaria do Bolhão, one of the most iconic and oldest pastry shops in Porto, founded in 1896. It's known for its traditional Portuguese sweets, along with coffee, sandwiches and light meals. The space preserves a classic, nostalgic atmosphere much loved by locals. Despite the place's historical and cultural value, the author says this wasn't the best pastel de nata she tried.

After visiting several pastelarias and sampling different takes on this emblematic pastry, the author picks Castro as the best place to eat pastéis de nata in Porto. She says it was already her favourite in Lisbon and remains so in Porto. She highlights the pastéis as extremely creamy, flaky, fresh and made on the day. She also praises the shop's atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff. In the end, she recommends Castro both in Porto and in Lisbon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to eat the best pastéis de nata in Porto?

Castro (Rua Mouzinho da Silveira) and Manteigaria (Rua de Alexandre Braga) are consistently among the favourites of both locals and tourists. But Manteigaria and Fábrica da Nata also deserve a mention.

What's the difference between pastéis de nata and Pastéis de Belém?

Honestly, we don't see a meaningful difference. "Pastéis de Belém" is a registered trademark of a bakery in Lisbon, but a quality pastel de nata made with care and served warm is equally delicious — regardless of where it comes from.

Is it worth eating pastéis de nata warm?

Absolutely. The difference between a cold nata and one fresh from the oven is enormous. The pastry becomes crispier, the custard creamier, and the experience is incomparable. Look for places that serve their natas warm — it's worth it.

Are there vegan pastéis de nata in Porto?

Yes, and the options keep growing. Alongside Pastelaria Tupi, it's well worth checking out Odete Bakery and A Padoca do Rosário Vegan in Porto, plus Guará Restaurant & Bakery in Vila Nova de Gaia — three fully vegan bakeries turning out excellent natas.

Where can I eat pastéis de nata in Porto outside the historic centre?

Café 55, near the Serralves Museum, pairs quality pastéis de nata with an excellent brunch. Nata de Mercado, inside Mercado do Bom Sucesso (Boavista), is another great alternative away from the tourist-heavy centre. And if you're willing to leave the city altogether, Casa da Calçada in Amarante and Doce d'Antas in Famalicão are well worth the detour.

Conclusion

Eating good pastéis de nata in Porto is not hard at all — the difficult part is choosing the best places. From modern ateliers like Castro and Manteigaria to century-old confectioneries like Confeitaria do Bolhão and Padaria Ribeiro, passing through gourmet markets like Bom Sucesso, artisan bakeries like Brites and Royale, and even a stop in Amarante and Famalicão, the Invicta city (and its surroundings) offer a range that rivals any other city in the country.

Our advice? Try several places, eat the natas warm whenever possible, pair them with a good coffee, and don't be afraid to take a box (or two) for the road. The important thing is to enjoy the experience and discover your own favourites. And if you have suggestions for other places we didn't mention, share them in the comments — we love discovering new spots to eat pastéis de nata!

Bon appétit and happy discoveries!

Tags: Comida Portuguesa Porto

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