18. Pastel de nata's rivals
Not that pasteis de nata are passe. The cinnamon-sprinkled custard tarts invented by monks in Lisbon's Belem district are still yummy, but Portugal's pastry-making efforts go so much further.
It's time to embrace sticky Madeira molasses cakes; fig, almond and carob creations from the Algarve; filo-pastry tubes with sweet, eggy fillings originating in the village of Tentugal.
The names of many sinful confections reflect their origins in convent kitchens -- like bacon-from-heaven (toucinho do ceu) or nun's belly (barriga de freira).
Portugal has a pastry store on every street. Among the best: the Casa da Isabel in Portimao, the Confeitaria da Ponte in historic Amarante, Pastelaria Alcoa by the medieval monestary in Alcobaca and the Confeitaria Nacional tempting downtown Lisbon since 1829.
A Casa Da Isabel, Rua Direita 61, Portimao 8500-626 Portugal;