Where to find the Portuguese custard tarts in Massachusetts

Lisa Zwirn, Boston Globe, May 27, 2025

The people spoke.

After my story on Lisbon’s beloved pasteis de nata (custard tarts) ran in the Globe’s food section in November, I received more than a few emails from readers who suggested I didn’t need to fly to Portugal to enjoy the traditional pastries. I was told there were many bakeries in Massachusetts’ South Coast (and one in Brookline) that made the popular natas. So I shelved my Lisbon walking shoes, hopped in the car, and headed to Fall River and New Bedford to sample the local Portuguese confections.

For less passionate readers, a pastel de nata (pronounced pash-tell de nah-ta; plural are pasteis de nata) is a little tart made up of a rich, creamy custard in a crisp, flaky crust. Because the tarts cook in a very hot oven, the custard gets its trademark dark brown-spotted, caramelized top.

To read the full story click HERE