Confeitaria Nacional – Lisbon’s pastry royalty

This almost 200 year old pastry shop in Lisbon has seen it all.

It was founded in 1829, it survived through a civil war, it served kings and princesses, it was one of the first places in the city to have a telephone, it lead the way on advertising with cutting edge ads and it was the sole responsible for introducing in Portugal an important tradition, the making of the famous Bolo Rei (King Cake made with a mix of dough, crystalized fruits, nuts and raisins) that is a must in every menu around the Christmas season.

But at Confeitaria Nacional there is more. So much more. Pasteis de nata, eclairs, palmiers, english cake, jesuits, almond pie, candy eggs and all sort of delicacies that will tempt you and that taste as good as they look.

If you are cutting back on sugar you’d better not even come close to Confetaria Nacional’s window.

Sometimes the place can be a bit crowded however we definitely recommend a visit.

If you have the time, go upstairs and enjoy a nice cup of tea or a coffee in their beautiful rooms, decorated in classic style, with a privileged view over Praça da Figueira.

 

Confeitaria Nacional

 > Praça da Figueira, 18B

> Opens 7 days a week. Monday-Thurday, 8:00-20:00; Friday-Saturday 8:00-21:00; Sunday 9:00-21:00

> Insider tip: if you appreciate life’s simpler things, or if you are trying to watch your figure, ask for a milk bread only with butter. They will slightly heat the milk bread so that the butter will melt once spread on in. Delicious.