Over the years, the iconic custard pastries from Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon have become a must-try for anyone visiting the Portuguese city. While the classic pastéis de nata can be tasted at almost any bakery throughout Lisbon, until now, there was just one spot where you could go buy and try the Pastéis de Belém. Yet on 28 June 2025, a second location opened its doors.
The Pastéis de Belém have a long history to rely on. The pastries have been made at the same location and following the same secret recipe since 1837. And although the years passed by, the shop hardly changed. Until today, the shop located at 84 to 92 Rua de Belém next to the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is known for its classic azulejos-clad walls and historical detail.
Yet with millions of vistors coming to the shop every year, queues were getting increasingly long and dealing with the crowds was getting more difficult. Therefore, Pastéis de Belém has now opened a second location to meet demand, located a few doors down from the original shop. At the former exit for Pastéis de Belém’s interior courtyard, at number 68 on Rua de Belém, a second location is now welcoming visitors.
“New counter, same taste. Just next door, with a fresh look but still the same fresh-from-the-oven Pastéis de Belém,” Pastéis de Belém said.
New design for a new era
Design studio Viterbro Interior Design was inspired by the historical shop to create a more modern design that blends in seamlessly with the old. The typical blue-hued azulejos are still a big part of the look and have been combined with natural wood and a lot of mirrors for a spin on the original interior.
“This is the first step in a special collaboration with one of Portugal’s most iconic brands. With deep respect for tradition and legacy, we have recreated this new space with clarity, soul and purpose,” commented designer Gracinha Viterbo.
From now on and until the end of 2025, visitors will be able to buy custard pastries at both location. However, in 2026, the original shop will be undergoing a renovation, overseen by Viterbro Interior Design. In order to make sure that the bakery will be able to continue operating as usual, that renovation will be taking place in multiple phases. During the process, the aim it to preserve “the architectural and emotional essence of the place, while introducing functional upgrades and an aesthetic language that fits the times”.
