This season, Lisbon envelops us in a magical atmosphere, not only with its lights and decorations, but also with the sweet aromas that spread through the city’s pastry shops and confectioneries. At Luzeiros Lisboa, we believe that celebrating Christmas involves discovering the delights that are part of the collective memory of the Portuguese, from classics that evoke family tables to reinvented versions that surprise even the most demanding palates.
If you are planning your stay with us, we have some very sweet suggestions that shouldn’t be missing from your Christmas itinerary, some of which are available at Luzeiros Caffé!
Christmas Dreams: lightness and sweetness
Christmas Dreams are fried pastries, soft inside, crispy outside, served sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon or with a sugar syrup flavored with cinnamon stick or vanilla bean. They are a common presence on the Christmas table in many Portuguese homes. The base dough can be enriched with pumpkin or carrot. Although its origin is related to traditions outside of Portugal, here it has become a symbol of simplicity and comfort.
Yule Log: the French tradition with a Portuguese soul
The Yule Log (or bûche de Noël), shaped like a tree trunk, usually with a light dough and chocolate covering, this sweet combines tradition and symbolism. Today, many chefs and confectioneries adapt the recipe while maintaining the original spirit: it’s the ideal sweet to share at a Christmas table, decorated to taste with elements that add color, such as small mushrooms, which delight the little ones.
King Cake: the classic that can never be missing
Round, made with sweet dough, filled with dried fruits, raisins and decorated with colorful candied fruits, although originating from French pastry, it has become a symbol of the Christmas season in Portugal. There are variations for all tastes, from the traditional to the Queen Cake (without candied fruits), including versions with chocolate or egg custard.
Where to find these and other Christmas sweets
Confeitaria Nacional
Since 1829 in Praça da Figueira, Confeitaria Nacional keeps alive the tradition of conventual and Christmas sweets. It was, in fact, one of its confectioners of French origin who brought the Bolo Rei (King Cake) recipe to Portugal. Here you will find all the classics; we cannot fail to mention the Lampreia de Ovos (Egg Lamprey), a sweet that dates back to the old recipes of religious orders and is a common presence on the festive tables of Lisbon residents. The neoclassical architecture of the shop, with its tiled façade and charming interior, makes this a must-stop.
Address: Praça da Figueira 18B, 1100-241 Lisbon
Opening Hours: Every day from 8 am to 8 pm
Pastelaria Benard
Founded in 1868, Pastelaria Benard is synonymous with traditional sweets. In their display cases, you’ll find all the classics, among which we highlight the golden slices, also known as rabanadas. These are simple sweets made with baguette bread soaked in milk and egg, which, after being fried, are sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon, or drizzled with sugar syrup. Comforting and full of memories, they are especially appreciated at Christmas dinners in many Portuguese homes.
Address: Rua Garrett 104, 1200-205 Lisbon
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 11 pm
Pastelaria Versailles
One of the most famous in the capital, Pastelaria Versailles keeps alive the tradition of making Christmas sweets that sweeten the soul. Their Sonhos (dreams) are a classic offering for those seeking to relive flavors from other times: fluffy and flavorful, perfect for those who like a lighter Christmas sweet.
Address: Avenida da República 15-A, 1050-185 Lisbon
Opening Hours: Daily from 7:15 AM to 12:00 AM
Alcôa Pastry Shop
Known for its handcrafted convent sweets, Alcôa brings its traditional Christmas touch to Lisbon. Among the standout delicacies is the Christmas Log, ideal for those seeking a charming and flavorful dessert!
Address: Rua Garrett 37, Chiado, 1200-203 Lisbon
Usual Opening Hours: Thursday to Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
We wish you a sweet Christmas, full of aromas, human warmth, and memories that last a lifetime! 🎄