Table Of Contents

1. History
   • Jerónimos Monastery
2. What Makes a Good Pastel de Natas?
3. Where to Find Lisbon’s Best 'Pasteis de nata'
   • Belém – Pastéis de Belém
   • Avenida da Liberdade – Fábrica da Nata
   • Baixa – Confeitaria Nacional
   • Cais do Sodré – Zarzuela
   • Chiado – Manteigaria
   • Barrio Alto – Pastelaria Padaria Sao Roque
   • Alfama – Pastelaria Alfama Doce
   • Happy Travels, Adventurers!

History

Before diving into the tart themselves, let’s take a minute to study the history of these desserts and why they are so iconic as a representation of Portugal’s culinary history. If you want to skip to the food, feel free to scroll down, but it’s nice to know a bit about why these treats are so important to eat when visiting Lisbon. The recipe for this famous sweet dates back over 300 years to a neighbourhood just west of the centre of Lisbon, in Belem. You can still visit the bakery to this day (Pastéis de Belém) and sample the very tart, which sparked thousands of copycats.

Jerónimos Monastery

The first pastel de nata (Pastel is singular, and Pasteis is the plural) was invented by the monks of Jerónimos Monastery. The monks would use egg whites to clean their clothes, and they ended up with thousands of egg yolks being thrown away. To use up the yolks and, in turn, sell some pastries to raise money for the monastery, the monks invented the recipe, which called for egg yolks as their main ingredient. Monks and nuns making and selling pastries is a practice dating back to the 16th century. In Barcelona, you can still try the convent cookies and/or travel to sample sweets from saints in Seville (not actually, but the alliteration was too good to pass up!) The word’ pastel de nata‘ is Portuguese for “cream pastry.”

Oddly enough, there is no cream used in making the pastries since the perfect custard filling is made with milk instead of cream. Cream would make the filling much too sweet and dense, whereas the milk produces that ideal jiggly, eggy custard which makes these desserts so tempting. After the Liberal Revolution of 1820 and the dissolution of the monasteries, the pastel de nata recipe was sold off to the current owners of the Pastéis de Belém. But the recipe was so popular that other bakeries started to attempt their own version to draw in the same crowds that Pastéis de Belém was gathering. Eventually, many succeeded, some with their own alterations and additions. When visiting Lisbon, there are many choices to find your perfect pastel de nata.

What Makes a Good Pastel de Natas?

Pasteis de nata MUST have a crispy and flaky crust, but the filling should be creamy and sweet, jiggly but NOT runny. Finally, they must be finished by being cooked at a super high temperature to give the tops that slightly caramelized surface with a touch of burnt sugar without being totally overdone.

If you are interested in seeing how they’re made, our stop at Manteigaria has a window into the bakery where you can watch the chefs at work. You might not want to watch this if you’re worried about calories! When you see the tart being made, you’re unaware of how many pounds of butter, eggs, and sugar go into these treats. But you’re on vacation, and there’s no such thing as calories, right? 

The effort it takes to make this dessert is astounding for such a little thing, but it really does pack a huge flavour punch! It’s easy to see after watching the process why so many bakeries try but fail to achieve the same quality product as these stellar bakers. To eat the pastries like a local, dust them in a cinnamon or powdered sugar coating. They are best enjoyed standing at the counters with an espresso (if you want to impress the staff, ask for a ‘bica‘ since that’s what they call ‘espresso’ in Lisbon).

While you can take them to go or sit down, standing at the counter is a great chance to chat with the staff and meet other locals. Always ask for a hot one out of the oven since those are the best! If they say they’ll have a few hot ones ready in a few minutes, WAIT! Trust me, it’s worth it. While still delicious, the cold ones aren’t the same.

Where to Find Lisbon’s Best ‘Pasteis de nata’

Belém – Pastéis de Belém

The best place to start your Pastel de Nata journey is where it originated, Pastéis de Belém. Belém is a laid-back neighbourhood west of the main part of the city along the Tagus River. This storefront might look small, but if you venture inside, you’ll see that the interior stretches out for miles. Even on a busy day, if you decide to take a seat, you’ll find you can almost always get a table outside the lunch and dinner hour.

You might have to wait a bit longer to be served, but the ambiance and traditional decor of the interior are well worth enjoying for an extended period. The tarts are unique compared to any of the other ones we tasted. They are much more creamy and less sweet. The egg flavour really stands out. The crust was also slightly thicker to hold up the more substantial custard.

What makes them stand out? 

Authenticity. Some of the more upscale bakeries in the city feel like they’re exploiting the tourist trend for these desserts. Pastéis de Belém serves many tourists, but their service and flavours aren’t trying to put on airs or impress. They are just there to serve the same recipe they’ve been selling for hundreds of years.

Cost: 1,05 €/each

Avenida da Liberdade – Fábrica da Nata

Fábrica da Nata has a few different shops in Lisbon, but the one on the Avenida da Liberdade is their most opulent and indulgent. The Avenida da Liberdade and Principe Real neighbourhood is an upscale stretch of Lisbon’s city centre, famous for its expensive shopping and luxurious architecture. As soon as you step in the door, the smell of sweet cream and flaky crust fills your nose. You can watch the bakers carrying trays of hundreds of tarts, sprung straight from the oven, jetting back and forth from the kitchen to the display cases.

A little conveyor belt runs along the ceiling, holding (fake) trays of pastries, carrying them all around the shop’s roof. While it’s just a gimmick, it adds a cute, almost Willy Wonka-like effect to the cafe. Fábrica da Nata is fabulously decorated, with blue tiles and lush seating. After all, you eat with your eyes, so no one will say no to such a beautiful environment. The tarts are almost always hot since there is nearly constantly a line up out the door (it moves very quickly, though, so don’t let that scare you off). While this might be a controversial opinion, these were my #1 tarts we had the entire trip! 

What makes them stand out? 

The crust! I found that the crusts were by far the crispiest, and there was a stronger hint of salt in them which seemed to balance the sweetness of the filling perfectly! If you love a salty-sweet treat, this is the place for you.

Cost: 1,00 €/each

Baixa – Confeitaria Nacional

Baixa is the historic heart of Lisbon and where you’ll find the oldest buildings in the city here. Confeitaria Nacional is the oldest pastry shop in Lisbon; it opened in 1829 and is now considered somewhat of a national monument. The dim, yellow glow from the old lamps reflecting off the mirrored ceiling is the first thing you’ll see upon entering. In glass cases around the room are displays of the various colourful cakes and desserts for which the bakery is so famous.

What makes them stand out? 

The flavours. The second owner of the shop, Baltazar Castanheiro Jr., spent much of their life travelling and bringing back recipes from other countries to incorporate into his pastries. He even dared to do so with the famed Portuguese sweet tart. Here you can find more than just plain custard; you can sample coffee, chocolate and pistachio Pasteis de nata! While this might not be the most authentic, it’s refreshing to see that he wanted to try something new. Can you imagine if all we had back home was plain doughnuts? Pretty hard to envision. The same kind of thing applies here, and it’s definitely worth trying to a twist on the original.

Cost: 1,20 €/each

Cais do Sodré – Zarzuela

Cais do Sodre, located south of the city centre, along the river, is one of the city’s most trendy and fashionable neighbourhoods. It has only recently undergone a hipster rejuvenation, but dozens of mom-and-pop cafes and restaurants are booming in this neighbourhood revival! This laid-back bakery doesn’t have many frills, but what it lacks in decor, it makes up for in dedication! Zarzuela serves up traditional Portuguese gluten-free, lactose-free and even vegan baked goods. Making gluten-free baked goods taste like the authentic, wheat-filled version takes real skill, and I made sure to try out plenty of their desserts and was amazed at how good they all were. Make sure to eat them warm as gluten-free items don’t stand the test of time like other pastries can, and fresh out of the oven, they are the most delicious!

What makes them stand out? 

Giving EVERYONE a chance to taste Portugal’s culinary history! While the taste might not be the same as the real thing, it’s a fantastic option for travellers with dietary restrictions who often never get the chance to sample this kind of baked goods. The gluten-free tart has a much thicker crust, but the filling is the same as any other bakery. I didn’t love the flavours of the vegan tart, but I know other vegans who are used to the taste of soy and egg substitutes who really enjoyed it and appreciated the chance to try it out. If you have anyone in your party with dietary needs, you CANNOT miss out on visiting Zarzuela. (P.s. be sure to try the doughnuts, they are insanely good!)

Cost: 2,20 €/each

Chiado – Manteigaria

The Chiado neighbourhood in Lisbon is one of the best places to visit come the setting of the sun. The district comes alive at night and bursts with people drinking on the cobblestones (since the bars themselves are much too small to fit all those patrons). But during the daytime, the lineups on the street are for one thing only; Pasteis de nata! Manteigaria, now one of Lisbon’s most visited pastel de nata bakeries, was once just a simple butter shop. You’ll see tiled signs all over the city for ‘Manteigarias‘ (butter shops) and ‘Leitarias‘ (milk shops) with images of beautiful milkmaid.

With the invention of the supermarket, these specialized stores died out, although their attractive signage was left as a memento of bygone times. Manteigaria opened in 2015 and quickly became the #1 stop to eat Pasteis de nata! Critiques have even named this location over the original Belem bakery, the best place to eat natas in Lisbon. While I still prefer Fabrica de Nata, this is a CLOSE second.

What makes them stand out? 

What makes them stand out? The filling. The complex taste of the custard here is what you notice most; it feels more complicated and nuanced than the original. The crust is much thinner and, therefore, very crispy and light, allowing that creamy, layered essence of eggs and milk to come through nice and bright! It’s so easy to eat more than just one…or two…or three…

Cost: 1,00 €/each

Barrio Alto – Pastelaria Padaria Sao Roque

Up the cobblestone steps from Chiado, you’ll find the bohemian neighbourhood of Bairro Alto. This district has some of the most quirky restaurants and traditional Fado bars playing music well into the early morning. Pastelaria Padaria Sao Roque is otherworldly and fits right in this over-the-top block. You’ll be in awe when you walk in the door by the ornate, embellished ceiling, bronze marble columns, and art deco azulejos adorning the walls and countertop.

What makes them stand out? 

Sweetness. If you have a sweet tooth, this is the place for you! This shop’s Pasteis de nata are extremely sweet, and their crust extremely flaky! You can see almost every layer of the pastry peeling back like the petals of a flower on the plate. The crust is crunchy and eaten with an espresso; it feels like the perfect balancing act to a splendid morning meal.

Cost: 1,00 €/each

Alfama – Pastelaria Alfama Doce

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood; perhaps because of this, it’s also home to the city’s best residents. They have been living in this maze-like, steep hillside part of Lisbon for hundreds of years, and Alfama feels like a city. At Pastelaria Alfama Doce, you’ll find a glass cabinet filled with simple, traditional treats. In addition to fresh pastries, this place serves up the best freshly squeezed orange juice to enjoy along with your morning pastry.

What makes them stand out? 

The hospitality. The friendly smiles and attention you’ll get in this area are unrivalled and exceptional. They feel like family welcoming you into their kitchen for your morning breakfast. Be sure to spend some time here chatting with the owners and locals since everyone has a story to tell and a recommendation you will be remiss not to take when visiting! Plus, they cost a bit less than any other locations, so you can chow down on more than just one!

Cost: 0,85 €/each

We tried so many other tarts from bakeries, not on this list, some of which we found really lacking. They were either too cold, hard, sweet or even bland. If you’re out to find your secret spot, venture outside this list and try to find your personal fave. But if you’re only visiting Lisbon for a short time and need to hit up the best places ASAP, then this list will serve you well. No matter where you end up in the city, an amazing pastel de nata cafe is nearby! Let me know which one of these bakeries was your favourite if you’ve already visited Lisbon or which one you think you’d be leaning toward if you’re planning on visiting soon!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post An Insider Guide to Finding the Best Pasteis de Nata (Portuguese Egg Tarts) in Lisbon first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Table Service
   • Magellan's
   • Teddy Roosevelt Lounge
   • Restaurant Sakura
2. Counter Service
   • Vulcania
   • New York Deli
   • Mama Biscotti's Bakery
   • Casbah Food Court
3. Snacks
   • Chandu's Tail
   • Gyoza Dog
   • Ukiwah Bun
   • Herb & Tomato Popcorn
   • Potato Churro
   • Omiyage Boxes
4. Desserts
   • Sea Salt Ice Cream Monaka
   • Alien Mochi
   •  Tiramisu Ice Cream Sandwich
5. Drinks
   • DeepSea Pineapple Smoothie
   • Vanilla Smoothie & Coffee Jelly
   • D's Delights Salty Frozen Dessert Drink
   • Frozen Beer
   • Themed Convenience Store Drinks

Table Service

If you have some money to splash out you can’t go wrong with Magellan’s. This is one of the most popular restaurants in the park so be prepared to wait. You can always put your name down on a wait list and come back when your table is ready. The restaurant opens at 10am, so arriving around then is your best option for making your reservation. If you have the option, ask for a table in the ‘secret room’ which is located behind a trick bookshelf which opens up into a secret wine cellar.

Magellan’s

Magellan’s feels like the regal and secretive meeting place of people like Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo where they would go on a dark and stormy night to discuss science, art and all things in between. Magellan’s is a fine dining table service restaurant and creates dishes like wagyu beef, grilled scallop salad and Crème brûlée. The menu is a Prix fix with different price levels. They range from ¥4,900 – ¥ 8,400 ($45-$77 USD) but for the food you get this is MORE than worth it! Plus, the ambiance and decor really can’t be beaten!

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Teddy Roosevelt Lounge

The Teddy Roosevelt Lounge is located inside the giant S.S. Columbia ship, which is docked outside the American Waterfront. Inside, it feels like a vintage smoking room from the 1920’s. The staff is all dressed in flapper costumes and jazz music plays throughout. The dimly lit wooden lounge is covered in rich textures and beautiful upholstery. The food here is suave and typical of American restaurants from that era. Since its rather on the pricey side, if you want a chance to experience the ambience, get a table and order the seasonal parfait instead of an entire meal. There is always something being changed up here so you never know what will be on offer. You can even order it in a souvenir glass for an extra something to remember your meal by. The parfait alone is ¥1,230 ($11 USD) and with the Souvenir Glass is ¥2,260 ($20 USD).

Restaurant Sakura

If DisneySea is one of your first stops on your visit to Japan and you’re dying to try some Japanese food, you really can’t go wrong by visiting Restaurant Sakura! Inside you’ll find all the traditional dishes Japan is famous for; udon, tempura, sushi and tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet). It’s not too pricey either for a meal, set range from ¥1,800 – ¥2,500 ($16 – $22 USD), so you can afford to try a few different options! The interior is beautiful but not Japanese decor, in case you were expecting something more traditional.

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Counter Service

Vulcania

Vulcania is one of those counter service restaurants you just can’t believe is counter service! Carved into the side of Mount Prometheus, is it meant to look like a geothermal station’s mess hall, but the food is, I’m sure, much better than those scientists ever got! This is where you should come if you’re looking for something Asian to try on your trip. While the food isn’t typically Japanese, you can try Chinese dumplings, Shrimp in Chili Sauce, Spicy Tofu w/ Minced Pork and even their new lunch and dinner set which comes with their take on Ramen noodles. Dishes are about ¥980 ($9 USD).

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New York Deli

If on the other hand you’re looking for something more familiar to the North American palette after days of Japanese meals, head down to the American Waterfront, and stop by New York Deli. This counter service restaurant is heralded as one of the best places to eat in the Disney Park universe. Mouthwatering stacks of meat piled on top of soft bread and crunchy pickles will make your hungry stomach very happy. The theming inside is, once more, unparalleled! Details you’d expect in a fancy sit-down restaurant are all over the place. Here you’re treated like a king at the price of a pauper.

Mama Biscotti’s Bakery

This little cafe is the perfect place to visit after your morning rush to get Toy Story Mania FastPasses and early morning rides. Here is where you’ll be able to find a good cup of coffee to keep you going all day as well as a HUGE selection of fluffy Italian and Japanese pastries. Picking up a selection of a few is a great plan in case you get caught in a long line when hunger strikes!

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Casbah Food Court

Casbah Food Court is one of the most immersive counter service restaurants I’ve been at a DisneyPark. Located inside the Arabian Coast, the interior of this food court looks like an ancient eastern bazaar. Intricate fabrics cover the ceiling, multicoloured Turkish lamps hang from the rooftop and beautiful mosaics decorate the walls. Inside, there are a few different counters serving curries from around the world! The best option here is the Three Curry Combo with Chicken, Beef, Shrimp curry served with rice and naan for ¥ 1,020 . This is less than $10 USD! Although the serving size is less than you might be used to in North America, the quality of the curry is out of this world. The naan is soft, the curry is rich and spicy and sitting in the most transporting environment, you feel like you’re dining in a very expensive restaurant.

Snacks

Chandu’s Tail

Chandu is the little tiger sidekick in Disneysea’s stand-alone ride, “Sinbad Storybook Adventure”. If you’ve ever had a curry bun, you’re going to love Chandu’s Tail. These treats can be found in the Sultan’s Oasis in the Arabian Coast. Year round these buns are filled with creamy chicken curry and during the springtime are filled with spicy beef and cheese. curry At only ¥500 ($4.50 USD) these are a steal and look – how could anything get any cuter?!

Gyoza Dog

Down the stairs from the Mysterious Island Gift Shop is one of the real treasures of the park. The Gyoza Dog is Tokyo’s answer to a hot dog, for an on-the-go treat! In its simplest form, it is an enormous dumpling bun stuffed with minced pork. The bun itself is like biting inside a cloud. I cannot express how soft this snack really is. The snack only costs ￥430 ($4 USD) and will definitely fill you up if you’re looking for something to keep you going during that mid-morning period. This place fills up FAST during the dinner and lunch rush so visiting outside those hours is preferable. But even when there is a huge line, the menu is small enough that people will take your order before you even reach the counter which really speeds the process along! So don’t be afraid to wait in line, it’s worth it!

Ukiwah Bun

The Ukiwah Bun can be found in the coastal themed harbour of Port Discovery. Ukiwah translates into English as “lifesaver” which is why these adorable little buns are shaped like tiny, round red and white lifesavers. They are served in a plastic wrap with the image of Donald on top which makes it looks like Donald is jumping out of the lifesaver, so cute!!! But they aren’t just cute to look at, they are delicious to boot. Stuffed with shrimp dumpling filling inside a soft bun, they are the perfect thing to eat on the go. At only ￥450 ($4 USD) you might find yourself eating two!

Herb & Tomato Popcorn

Disney Popcorn is an iconic treat but the flavours in Tokyo are next level! And while they might seem a little outta this world they are more worth giving a try. The flavours usually available are; Milk Chocolate, Soy Sauce and Butter, Curry, Honey, Black Pepper and our favourite Herb and Tomato (which is basically PIZZA!). They often have limited edition flavours available during holidays or special events. Speciality flavours such as Strawberry, Milk Tea, Jalapeno and coconut. But the best part about the popcorn are the adorable souvenir buckets they come in.

Buckets can be purchased in some of the souvenir shops or certain featured ones can be bought at the popcorn vendors carts. We got the BuzzLightyear bucket which looked like the real Buzz Toy in it’s collector’s box. It looks incredible up on our shelves so definitely worth the price. The popcorn costs ¥350 ($3 USD) for a regular box and around ¥1400-¥2000 ($13 – 18 USD) for a souvenir bucket. BUT a refill of the bucket will only cost your ¥500 ($4.50 USD) so if you’re travelling with friends and are up for sharing this is a great deal! Grab the bucket and try as many flavours as you can!

Potato Churro

Churros in any Disney park are a popular option. The lines for them are often just as long as some of the rides! During the holidays, the churros are often seasoned with specialty flavours like strawberry, cotton candy or cafe au lait! They only cost ¥310 ($2.80 USD) so they are much better priced than in any of the US parks – worth trying as many flavours as you can find!

Omiyage Boxes

Inside almost all of the souvenir shops at DisneySea, you’ll find the most adorably designed Omiyage Boxes. “Omiyage” is a Japanese word which refers to the giving of a gifts (typically something edible) which one brings back to their family and co-workers after a trip or vacation. They are usually impeccably presented as well as delicious. And at DisneySea, they don’t take any shortcuts. The tins, boxes, bowls and treats themselves are all so beautiful you’ll find it hard to give them away. Be sure to check out the limited edition seasonal box sets, that is, if they haven’t already sold out!

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Desserts

Sea Salt Ice Cream Monaka

A monaka is a Japanese treat, traditionally served with a dollop of red bean paste inside two mochi wafers. Here at the park they have revamped it into something cool for a hot day. Two crispy wafers, in the shape of a seashell, contain sea salt ice cream and a dollop of raspberry filling instead of the red bean. The combination of the tart berries, sweet cream and hint of salt is ABSOLUTE perfection! Grab one of these while you’re visiting Mermaid Lagoon as the seashell design makes for a great photo op in front of Ariel’s kingdom! I’m amazed they’re only ￥310, less than $3 USD if the exchange rate is good.

Alien Mochi

Toy Story is such an important movie in Japan and they LOVE their Toy Story merch and themed food! One of the most popular items in the park are these ice cream mochi. Mochi are little dumplings made from gluttonous rice and here filled with ice cream in three flavours. The mochis are shapes into the heads of the aliens from Toy Story and served stacked one on top of the other like they would be in the crane machine. Three mochi will cost you ¥360 ($3.20 USD) and they often have speciality souvenir carriers which cost ¥880 ($8 USD).

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 Tiramisu Ice Cream Sandwich

Japan has found it’s answer to the classic Mickey Ice Cream Bar at Disneyland, and that is their Tiramisu Ice Cream Sandwich. Sandwiched between two dedicated cookies flavoured with a hint of coffee is a creamy vanilla ice cream. It’s soft, cool and absolutely delicious. For only ¥300 ($2.70 USD) youll want to try ore than one. 

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Drinks

DeepSea Pineapple Smoothie

If you’re looking for something to drink that’s not just the typical soda, head over to Port Discovery beside Nemo and Friends Searider ride and try out this tropical cocktail. Looking at it from afar it looks like layers of the ocean, the top is blue slush, the middle is filled with blue jelly and the bottom has a layer of yellow tapioca balls to represents the ocean floor. If you are a fan of the texture of bubble tea, you’ll love this drink! It’s ¥400 ($3.8 USD)and comes in an adorable cup!

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Vanilla Smoothie & Coffee Jelly

For an afternoon pick me up there is nothing better than the Vanilla Smoothie with Coffee Jelly over in the Sultan’s Oasis. There are so many layers of flavours, it makes it a joy to drink. The sweetness of the smoothie is cut with the bitter coffee, a fantastic blend. A cup will run you ¥500. Although small in size, it’s BIG in flavour. 

D’s Delights Salty Frozen Dessert Drink

If you’re not in the mood for coffee, D’s has another iconic treat up their sleeve. The “salty” dessert drink is made from creamy vanilla ice cream, with raspberry and lychee puree. Mixed in is a hint of salt which takes the entire sip up a level. But be sure to mix it well otherwise you might be a mouthful of pure salt! For only ¥500 it’s a luxurious steal!

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Frozen Beer

On a hot day, or even just as a way to relax your tired body, there is nothing better than an ice cold beer. Oh wait, yes there is – a FROZEN beer! Down beside the model of the Nautilus in Mysterious Island is where you can find this elixir. For only ¥700, if you’re looking for something with a kick, this is it

Themed Convenience Store Drinks

At any of the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel’s, you’ll find their very own convenience stores! If you’ve read any of my other posts on Tokyo, you’ll know that convenience stores are EVERYTHING in Japan! They are no different here at Tokyo Disney Resort. Inside are the typical convenience store foods but you’ll ALSO find uniquely themed food, drinks and snacks! Even their bottled water is packaged in adorable bottles in the shape of beloved Disney characters. If you’re not staying on Disney property, you can find these at the 7-Eleven’s near Maihama station.

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Did this post make you hungry?! It sure made me miss all those incredible foods and miss Japan even more! Let me know what you’re looking forward to eating or if you’ve already been to DisneySea what dish was your favourite!

The post All the BEST Food at Tokyo DisneySea first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

We walked up a few steps to the second floor of an old, Victorian house. Outside the door, there was a small bureau covered in antique tea cups and saucers displaying their menu and accolades to passers by. When you step through the door, a waft of sweet, fragrant air envelopes you. The house feels lived in and although it’s been transformed into a cafe, the bones of the homey residence remain.

The walls were covered in vintage china plates scattered like birds across the pale blue sky coloured wallpaper. Every chair and table was different from one another and seemed to have been cobbled together as the cafe grew. We snagged a table on the second floor against the windows. The fresh air was like lifeblood to me, and I slowly began to awaken. There were all sorts of different things we could order, but we settled on the afternoon tea set. It came complete with a large pot of tea of our choosing, a selection of sandwiches and cake, two scones, cream and jam.

There is something about tiny food that just excites me. I have always loved sharing platters, being able to taste a bit of everything, so this was right up my alley. One of the unique dishes we were served was smoked salmon and cream atop a Scottish treat called an oat cake. Sarah maintained that it was very traditional so we relished in trying something new!

My favourite thing we ate, by far and away, were the scones. There is nothing like an English (or Scottish) scone. They just know how to do it right. The cream was so thick and sweet without being overbearing. And the jam, oh the jam! It was rhubarb jam! It’s not often you get rhubarb jam, and it’s one of my favourites so this meal felt extra special.

As our lunch was winding down, I wandered around the restaurant, soaking up every inch of this place. If there was ever somewhere the felt like home, it was here. This is what I have always dreamed my home would look like. Covered floor to ceiling in treasures, bright colours, the smell of baked good permeating the air. Even the bathroom as replete with artistry. The tiles on the walls were painted with Art Nouveau printed by Alphonse Mucha, one of my favourite artists! It was meant to be.

Once our meal had all but disappeared and our teapot was empty, we knew it was time to go (although we knew we’d be back before the week was out). We walked down the emerald green staircase, adorned in prints of Scottish men dressed in their finery, and skipped down the cobblestones street, filled with a renewed energy after our long flight, and ready to take on the rest of the day!

The post The Butterfly & The Pig Afternoon Tea in Glasgow first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Breakfast
   • Matt's Big Breakfast
   • Vovomena
2. Coffee
   • Lux Central
   • Lola's Coffee
   • Dutch Brothers
   • Copper Star Coffee
3. Brunch
   • Windsor
   • HULA'S Modern Tiki
4. Snacks
   • Phoenix Public Market Cafe
5. Lunch
   • Queen Creek Olive Mill
   • Joyride Taco House
   • Taco Guild
   • America's Taco Shop
6. Dinner
   • Cibo Pizzeria
   • Fuego at The Clarendon
7. The Mission
8. Dessert
   • Churn
   • Melt
   • Shakes & Cones

Breakfast

Matt’s Big Breakfast

Matt’s Big Breakfast is a staple of Phoenician breakfast time. After initial success at its first location in Downtown Phoenix, Matt’s Big Breakfast has expanded all over the Valley. So no matter where you find yourself early in the morning, there is a Matt’s not far. 

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Matt’s Big Breakfast has known for its cage-free eggs made “cracked to order.” Their breakfast is served all day, so there is no need to rush out the door. There is almost always a line, but trust me, it’s worth it. The decor combines hipster cafes and high school cafeterias, making the place warm and homey. But be sure to try the Chop and Chick if you’re feeling extra hungry. It comes with two eggs and an Iowa-seared pork rib chop! The enormous waffles are light and fluffy, and the griddle cakes are topped with sweet cream butter – drooling yet? Don’t wait – head down to Matt’s Big Breakfast for some delicious comfort food.

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Vovomena

Located in the heart of downtown, just off McDowell Road, is Vovomeena. Vovomeena is a little bit of a hidden gem, and I’m almost one to keep it secret…But such an amazing place can’t keep secret forever. The staff here are so charming and kind, making the experience exceptional. The food is a mix of different flavours. But all inspired by their Portuguese grandmother (who they named the restaurant after.)

One of my favourite things about this place is their Japanese cold brew which is the perfect pairing to all their dishes. My favourite order has got to be their Mexican benedict with chorizo and hollandaise. But if you have a sweet tooth, go for the banana bread pudding french toast – it’s to die for!

Coffee

Lux Central

Lux Coffee, just off Central Avenue, is one of those spots that screams “good vibes!” Walking in here every day feels like walking into a friend’s house. Their coffee menu is vast, but they don’t sacrifice great beans and well brewed coffee for trendy flavours. Instead, they balance a perfect brew and interesting flavour combinations perfectly to create the most delicious drinks. When it’s not boiling out, you’ll find me o the patio Thankfully their interior is huge, so there is always room inside to sit and relax with your morning brew.

Lola’s Coffee

Lola’s Coffee, just off Roosevelt Road, is a stunning family-owned & operated coffee shop that offers up some of the best brews in the city. Their menu is small and simple, but when the coffee is this good, that’s all you need! This spot is always super busy in the morning, so if you are planning on coming, I would warn you that parking is often full. It’s better to walk over or park nearby and stroll down. Their outdoor patio is so charming, and when its this busy, people watching is at it’s best here!

Dutch Brothers

If you’re in the mood for a drive-thru or quick-stop experience but don’t wanna settle for the standard Starbucks, you should give Dutch Brothers a try. Dutch Brothers have some of the best staff I think you’ll meet anywhere in the USA. Their sweet creations consist of variations like “the Kicker” (a blend of silky Irish cream) and “the Carmelized” ( creamy caramel mixed with mocha.) Or, for the daring, give “the 991” a try. It’s a blend of Irish cream and six shots of espresso! And there’s just no beating their darling Dutch iconography on their storefronts and coffee cups. 

Copper Star Coffee

If you have more time to relax, stop downtown at Copper Star Coffee in the charming Melrose District. Copper Star is a hip coffee shop inside a converted gas station and mechanics shop. Inside, there are delightful treasures and artworks all over the walls. The eclectic blend of mix-matched furniture makes for a cozy atmosphere. The drinks are unique, and their Lavender Mocha is my absolute favourite!

Brunch

Windsor

Brunch isn’t just for the big cities. There are many places to go for brunch around the city, but the Windsor is one of the best. I love the midcentury decor; the bright red brick walls feel chic and welcoming. Their Highroad Sandwich, made with eggs, belly bacon, tomato & garlic aioli, is pure perfection and the best hangover cure. Their Matador is my favourite, though; two eggs over easy stacked with griddled cheddar potatoes, a crispy tortilla, salsa verde & avocado relish. It feels like the epitome of Phoenix on a plate, a mix of American, Mexican and southwestern flavours.

HULA’S Modern Tiki

In the fashionable Old Scottsdale downtown, you can find this stylish eatery! I am absolutely obsessed with the design of this hip brunch spot! As the name infers, Hula’s offers up Polynesian-inspired food inside an old-school tiki bar-styled interior. I cannot come here and miss out on their French Toast. Unlike anywhere else I’ve been, their french toast is dipped in a coffee-batter before being cooked and then topped with apples and plantain compote! It’s absolutely magical.

While the food is next level, the drinks make this place the best stop for brunch! If you’re visiting with a group, you’ve got to try the Scorpion Bowl! It’s a huge rum-based cocktail served in a bowl for around 2-4 people!

Snacks

Phoenix Public Market Cafe

The Phoenix Public Market cafe in Downtown Phoenix is one of my favourite places to hop into for a snack. Their pastries are unrivalled, and there is nothing like a cup of their cactus iced tea or cold brew coffee on the side of a mountainous pastry. The Public Market is a program of Community Food Connections which came together to create an excellent storefront and weekly open-air market on Saturdays. Since the foodie community came together to create this place, it is no surprise that the food is so good! Try one of their enormous cinnamon buns or homemade pop tarts if you need a sugar rush to get you through the rest of the day.

Lunch

Queen Creek Olive Mill

One of my favourite places to take new visitors for a relaxing and delicious afternoon is the Queen Creek Olive Mill. The Olive Mill is Arizona’s only operating olive mill that makes its own olive oil and associated products. You can tour the mill and see the trees, learn how olive oil is processed and even how they use all kinds of oils in the kitchen. Tours cost $7/adult or $10 with a glass of Prosecco. The tour lasts 45 minutes and runs from midday to midafternoon on the half hour. 

Joyride Taco House

Joyride Taco House is one of the most fantastic restaurants in the city. When you walk in the door, it’s like you stepped back in time. The door and stylings are right out of the 70s. It’s the perfect place for a party as it’s very suitable for big groups. The food is ideal for sharing, and the best idea is to order a little bit of everything on the menu and pass it around. It might not be traditionally authentic Mexican food, but it’s a fresh take on classic dishes and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Taco Guild

If you know me, you’ll know I love anything medieval. When I saw a taco restaurant in Phoenix inspired by the gothic period’s art and architecture, set inside a historic church, you better believe I was there in a split second! And thankfully for me, Taco Guild‘s food was just as good as the interior decor! as the name implies, the restaurants serve up innovative tacos inspired by a variety of international cuisine that has tacos as an integral part of their daily life.

America’s Taco Shop

Ok, ok, I know, there are a lot of tacos on this list. But that’s the best thing about a trip to Phoenix. Arizona shares its southern border with Mexico. Over the years, so much of the local cuisine has been influenced by immigrants from the state of Sonora in Mexico. America’s Taco Shop was founded by America Corrales, who first came to the U.S. from her native Mexico. She brought a passion for Mexican cuisine, specifically her mother’s hand-written recipes. After opening her first restaurant, her down-to-earth food immediately caught fire with the locals.

Today, there are more than half a dozen locations across the city. The food here feels as close to the real thing as possible; it’s simple, cheap and absolutely delicious. Don’t miss out on a cold cup of horchata (a rice-based beverage flavoured with cinnamon.) It’s the perfect thing for a hot day or to cool down your mouth after spicy salsa!

Dinner

Cibo Pizzeria

The best place in the city for a romantic evening is Cibo Pizzeria. The restaurant is located in a quaint, circa 1913 bungalow. They feature Italian staples, including red & white wood-fired pizzas. My favourite, for those who like it hot, is the Diavola with tomato sauce, mozzarella and spicy salami! Their unique and modern white pizzas are also very popular, one of the best being the Tartufata, with mozzarella, mushrooms, prosciutto and truffle oil. In the evening, the tree outside is covered in twinkle lights, and from time to time, even a local musician will come to entertain the diners under the setting sun.

Fuego at The Clarendon

Attached to the super trendy and retro chic hotel Clarendon, Fuego is a lively restaurant serving a Cuban and Latin-inspired menu with some of the best margaritas and mojitos in town! The Enchiladas and Chile Relleno are my favourites and make me think of Mexico City. One of the best things about this restaurant is that it will often have live music playing, which adds a wonderful touch to the entire experience. If you want to guarantee a meal with music, you can always call to check.

The Mission

For dinner, head over to the Mission, which is situated right beside the old Spanish Mission site. The decor inside the restaurant is dark and mysterious. A large Himalayan salt block wall and the twinkle of candlelit chandeliers welcome you inside. The Mission serves up a mix of modern and traditional Latin cuisine. Don’t skip their Wagyu pastrami taco; truly a decadent experience.

Dessert

Churn

If there’s one thing people know about Phoenix, having visited or not, it is hot. Scorching, in fact. And there is nothing better to cool you off on a hot summer than a creamy and refreshing ice cream cone. And Churn does it better than anyone else. Their rotating, innovative flavours mean that you can come back all the time and always find something new to try. But they always have the classic on hand, such as; Cookies & Mint, Sweet Cream and Butter Pecan. Rotating flavours you HAVE to try if you get the chance are Whiskey Toffee Pecan, Peaches ‘n Honey, Mexican Chocolate (which has a little spice) and Oatmeal Cookie Dough. All the flavours are made from all-natural ingredients. You can feel a little better when scarfing down on this sweet treat!

Melt

Melt is another one of my favourite ice cream shops. Just off the trendy Roosevelt Row, you’ll find Melt has some of the most interesting and unique flavours found anywhere! Everything from Butterbeer, pina colada sorbet, maple bacon, jolly rancher, apple pie, blueberry, banana nut and Vietnamese coffee can all be found here! Plus, all their ice cream is served inside those classic Chinese take-out containers, which adds to the quirky delights this shop offers!

Shakes & Cones

For dessert in Scottsdale, head over to Shakes & Cones. While Scottsdale is mostly known for its upscale dining, Shakes & Cones still feels like a simple family joint. They make small batches of soft-serve ice cream and even offer non-dairy options for vegetarians. There aren’t a lot of bells and whistles here, just simple ingredients that highlight the fantastic flavour of their ice cream.

What are your favourite places to visit in Phoenix? There’s always something new to try in this ever-growing foodie city, so take a chance and see if you find yourself eating at the next hot spot.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Best Places to Eat in Phoenix [UPDATED 2023] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.