There’s a new cult pud in town – and this time, it doesn’t involve Kinder, Biscoff or unicorn horns. Because the reality is, pastel de natas simply don’t need all the fluffy stuff to steal our attention. We love them just as they are: beige, round and full of custard. Wanna try some of the best natas this side of the Atlantic? Here’s our guide to the best pastel de natas to try in Manchester.
1. Just Natas
Just Natas really brought pastel de natas to the forefront of the street food scene when they opened in Arndale Market just shy of two years ago – even becoming the city’s first dedicated nata stall. There, guests can enjoy authentic Portuguese tarts created by the team at Federal, who have Portuguese heritage running through their veins, alongside delicious coffees to take away, too. Trust us when we say, they’re some of the best you’ll find this side of the Atlantic. Just Natas, Manchester Arndale, M4 3AD.
2. Canto
Known for their delicious Portuguese tapas, Canto knows a thing or two about Portuguese cuisine – including the delectable pastel de nata. Available to order on their carefully curated dessert menu, the homemade tarts are packed full of yummy custard – encased in a wonderfully flaky pastry and topped with a hint of cinnamon. They’re best enjoyed after a big old feast of Portuguese tapas. Canto, Cutting Room Square, Blossom St, Ancoats, M4 5DH.
3. Federal Cafe Bar
The brains behind Arndale Market’s Just Nata, Federal is where it all started for them. Serving pastel de natas alongside their array of delicious coffees, Federal has mastered the custard tart, serving them with a tasty sprinkling of cinnamon and a lovely bit of caramelisation on top. Perfecto. Federal, 9 Nicholas Croft, M4 1EY | 194 Deansgate, M3 3ND.
4. Bee Happy Nata Co.
A hidden gem just outside of the food hall at the Trafford Centre, Bee Happy Nata Co. is the place to be if you like your natas more on the experimental side. The happy little kiosk stocks tons of fresh-baked natas, with toppings such as cinnamon, blueberry, chocolate, Biscoff, cherry and more, alongside the original classic nata. Bee Happy Nata Co., The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park, Stretford, M17 8AA.
5. Taste of Portugal
A specialist warehouse filled to the brim with Portuguese grub, it’s unsurprising that Taste of Portugal is one of the top spots in Manchester for a good pastel de nata. In addition to delicious natas, expect tons of incredible Portuguese pastries, as well as fruity cakes, dried fish, coffee and more. Taste of Portugal, Unit 6, Willan Industrial Estate, W Ashton St, Salford, M50 2GR.
6. Th3 Guys, Bolton
Ok, so it’s a little bit further afield in Bolton rather than in actual Manchester, but lovers of Portugal have to visit Th3 Guys if they find themselves that way out. The dog-friendly cafe is the perfect spot for a brew and a nata, with not only tasty custard tarts on offer, but delicious Portuguese rolls and peri peri sandwiches to enjoy. Th3 Guys, 92 Great Moor St, Bolton, BL3 6DS.
7. The Flat Baker
Opening up a little bakery hatch in the Manchester area of Ancoats last year, The Flat Baker takes inspiration from Brazil – where the founding bakers have roots – including, of course, today’s subject: pastel de natas. Flaky, creamy and packed full of flavour, nata fans can keep up with The Flat Baker’s whereabouts via their social media channels. The Flat Baker, 23 Radium Street, Ancoats, M4 6AY.