Alice C
Google
A visit to Lord Stow’s Bakery in Coloane is a cherished ritual. The quiet queue, the warm box of a dozen tarts—it’s a pilgrimage for the senses. That first bite is pure bliss: the audibly crisp, flaky pastry shatters to reveal a wobbly, rich custard with its signature caramelized top.
Yet, this time, the experience was beautifully bittersweet. The familiar flavour instantly transported me back to a pastry shop in Portugal, a reward after completing the Camino last year. While Lord Stow's version is slightly richer and creamier than the classic pastél de nata, it evoked the same profound comfort. It’s not a perfect replica, but until I can return to Portugal, this is the most delicious and worthy tribute—a sweet, warm mouthful that vividly remembers a journey from a year ago.