This February, it's time to find out what bakery can claim Nata Fame and be crowned as the maker of the best Pasteis de Nata in the land (well, Fall River and New Bedford.)

Fall River and New Bedford are Southcoast sister cities and like any siblings, there's bound to be a little rivalry. Both cities have a large Portuguese culture, ranging from the mainland and Azores, to Madeira and Cape Verde. And both have a bevy of bakeries that serve up some tasty Portuguese custard tarts.

Winner will be announced on March 15

How to participate

  1. Eat natas at as many bakeries as you can (and grab a postcard!)

  2. Get stamps upon purchase

  3. Vote for your favorite online or by mailing in stamped postcard

Participating Bakeries

New Bedford

  • Goulart Square: 413 Rivet St

  • Economy Bakery: 1685 Acushnet Ave

  • Sunrise Bakery: 506 Bolton St

Fall River

  • Barcelos Bakery: 695 Bedford St

  • Europa Pastries & Coffee Shop:65 Columbia St

  • Leddy's Bakery: 1481 S Main St

  • Modern Bakery: 351 Alden St

  • Portugalia Marketplace: 489 Bedford St

  • United Liberty: 1173 Stafford Rd

Pick up a postcard at any participating bakery

FAQ

  • Whose crazy idea is this? Viva Fall River, New Bedford Food Tours, and Destination New Bedford. Each organization works to promote all the wonderful things about Fall River and New Bedford (respectively)- including its amazing food!

  • How do I participate? Grab a post card at participating locations (see map) and try to visit as many participating bakeries as you can during the month of February. 

  • Are you sure this is a FRIENDLY food fight? Absolutely! This is a friendly competition whose main goal is to help spread awareness of ALL the great bakeries, cafes, and markets in both cities! No matter who wins, we ALL win!

  • Wait, I don’t see my favorite bakery, what gives? Not all bakeries are participating, but that doesn’t mean you can go and eat natas! Any bakery can be entered as a write in.

  • Does it cost anything to participate? You are responsible for the cost of the natas, but there is no cost to play or vote.

  • How do I vote? Voting will open from February 1-28. You can either vote online (on this page) or by mailing in your card to the address on the card. 

  • How do I win a prize? Mail in your stamped postcard to “Office of Tourism and Marketing, City of New Bedford, 133 William Street, New Bedford, MA 02741” to be entered into the drawing.

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