Pastel de Belém Topped Finest Pastry within the World

TasteAtlas, the globally recognized platform that ranks culinary delights based on user reviews, has crowned Portugal’s Pastel de Belém as the best pastry in the world for 2025. Garnering 25,737 votes from around the globe, the Pastel de Belém soared to the top of a list comprising 496 cataloged dishes. The Pastel de Nata also claimed third place in this prestigious ranking, cementing Portugal’s reputation as a gastronomic haven.

The Pazarske Mantije from Serbia came in second place with a score of 4.69 out of 5, showcasing the fierce competition among global sweets. But what is it about Portugal’s iconic custard tart that continues to captivate taste buds worldwide?

The Sweet Tale of Pastel de Belém

The story of the Pastel de Belém begins in 1837, at the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon. The monks, known for their culinary expertise, created this pastry for sustenance and income. With a flaky, buttery pastry shell encasing a creamy custard filling of milk, eggs, sugar, lemon, and cinnamon, the Pastel de Belém perfectly harmonizes textures and flavors.

What sets the Pastel de Belém apart is its exclusivity. The original recipe remains a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations and known only to a handful of master bakers at the Fábrica dos Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon. Only pastries produced at this bakery can officially bear the name “Pastel de Belém.” The version found elsewhere in Portugal and the world is referred to as the Pastel de Nata, which has slight variations in taste and texture.

Pastel de Belém vs. Pastel de Nata

At first glance, the Pastel de Belém and the Pastel de Nata might seem identical, but connoisseurs know the subtle yet significant differences:

1. Recipe: The Pastel de Belém’s recipe remains a well-kept secret, while the Pastel de Nata has been adapted and reproduced widely, leading to variations in flavor and consistency.

2. Texture: The Belém version often boasts a lighter, flakier pastry shell, whereas the Nata’s crust can vary depending on the bakery.

3. Flavor: The Pastel de Belém is renowned for its perfectly balanced custard filling with a hint of cinnamon and lemon, while the Pastel de Nata might lean sweeter or creamier depending on its preparation.

4. Experience: Tasting a Pastel de Belém from its original bakery in Lisbon is considered an essential cultural and culinary experience for visitors to Portugal.

Both pastries are best enjoyed sprinkled with a touch of powdered sugar and cinnamon, either warm or cold, accompanied by a cup of coffee or Portugal’s traditional Ginjinha liqueur.

Portugal: A Gastronomic Destination

Beyond its famous custard tarts, Portugal is a treasure trove of culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Here are some of the country’s other iconic dishes and ingredients you shouldn’t miss:

Bacalhau (Salted Codfish)

Bacalhau at Sal na Adega | AdegaMãe 

Portugal boasts 365 ways to prepare bacalhau, one for every day of the year. Whether it’s Bacalhau à Brás (a mix of shredded cod, eggs, and potatoes) or Bacalhau com Natas (cod baked in a creamy sauce), this staple is a cornerstone of Portuguese cuisine.

Sardinhas Assadas (Grilled Sardines)

A summer favorite, grilled sardines are best enjoyed during Lisbon’s Santos Populares festival. Served with bread or potatoes, they epitomize simplicity and flavor.

Francesinha

Photo from Unilever Food Solutions 

Originating from Porto, this indulgent sandwich is layered with cured meats, smothered in cheese, and topped with a rich tomato-beer sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest.

Caldo Verde

Photo from Continente Online

This hearty soup made with kale, potatoes, and chouriço (Portuguese sausage) is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings.

Conventual Sweets

Portugal’s doces conventuais (conventual sweets) are a legacy of the country’s monasteries. Using egg yolks, sugar, and almonds, these desserts include Toucinho do Céu and Pão de Ló.

Port Wine and Regional Varieties

No culinary journey in Portugal is complete without sampling its world-famous Port wine, as well as regional varieties like Vinho Verde from the Minho region.

Queijo da Serra

Portugal’s artisanal cheeses, like the creamy Queijo da Serra from the Serra da Estrela region, are an unmissable treat for cheese enthusiasts.

Celebrating Portuguese Culinary Heritage

The global recognition of the Pastel de Belém underscores Portugal’s culinary prowess and its ability to preserve traditions while captivating modern palates. From its seafood-rich coastal dishes to its hearty inland stews, Portugal offers a gastronomic experience that is as diverse as its landscapes.

So, when you plan your next culinary adventure, make sure Portugal is at the top of your list. And don’t forget to indulge in the world’s best pastry, the Pastel de Belém – a timeless testament to the art of dessert-making.