Porto center- Workshop A nata do BJ making pasteis de nata

A hands-on pastry experience in Porto that blends culinary skill with local charm. This workshop promises to teach you the art of making Pastel de Nata, Portugal’s beloved custard tart, in a relaxed, friendly environment right in the heart of the city. What makes this experience truly appealing is the opportunity to learn a family recipe from passionate hosts and enjoy a glass of Port wine alongside your freshly baked treats.

One highlight we love is its intimate size—limited to just six participants—which means personalized attention and a truly interactive experience. On the flip side, the workshop is only offered in Portuguese or French, making it less accessible for those who don’t speak these languages. Still, if you’re seeking an authentic, culinary peek into Portuguese culture, this workshop fits the bill nicely.

Perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, or those wanting a memorable activity beyond sightseeing, this experience offers a taste of local life combined with a delicious, hands-on activity.

Key Points

• Authentic Learning: You’ll learn to create a traditional family recipe for Pastel de Nata, a must-try Portuguese treat.
• Local Environment: Hosted in a typical Porto house, providing an intimate and genuine setting.
• Inclusive Tasting: Enjoy your baked pastries with Port wine, coffee, juices, or water—perfect for pairing or just savoring.
• Small Group: Limited to six people, fostering interaction and personalized guidance.
• Language: Conducted in Portuguese or French, suitable if you speak either language.
• Cost-Value: At $40 per person, the cost covers ingredients, utensils, beverages, and insurance—a well-rounded value for an authentic culinary experience.

An Authentic, Delicious Journey into Portuguese Pastry

This Porto-based Pastel de Nata workshop is a delightful way to connect with local culinary traditions while satisfying your sweet tooth. The experience is hosted by CASA BJ, with Virginia, your warm and welcoming guide, leading you through the process of crafting these iconic custard tarts from scratch. The workshop lasts about two hours and takes place in a cozy, typical Porto home, offering a glimpse into local life that’s both intimate and educational.

What makes this tour special is its focus on authenticity. You won’t just be shown how to do it; you’ll actively participate from start to finish—making the pastry dough, preparing the filling, and assembling the tarts. We appreciate that Virginia uses local ingredients, emphasizing the fresh, genuine flavors typical of Portuguese cooking. The atmosphere is described as friendly and relaxed, with reviews praising the warm welcome and convivial environment.

One of the standout features is the chance to add a personal touch to your Pastel de Nata by garnishing them with your favorite toppings. This little flourish lets you get creative and adds a fun, interactive element to the process. Plus, while your pastries bake, you can unwind with a glass of Porto wine, which perfectly complements the sweet treats. The workshop concludes in Virginia’s garden, where you get to enjoy your freshly baked pastries with your choice of drink—plus enjoy traditional Portuguese music for an extra touch of local flavor.

What You Can Expect from the Workshop

The Itinerary Breakdown

Arrival and Welcome: As you arrive at the workshop, you’ll find a friendly, informal atmosphere. Virginia, your host, greets you warmly and explains the agenda. The workshop is designed to be accessible, even for those who haven’t baked much before.

Hands-On Baking: You’ll get your hands dirty—literally—as you roll out dough, fill tart shells, and learn the secret techniques behind creating flaky pastry shells and perfectly custardy fillings. Virginia’s family recipe is a cherished tradition, and her guidance makes sure you grasp each step without feeling overwhelmed.

Local Ingredients and Tools: The ingredients used are locally sourced, giving you a taste of the authentic flavors. All utensils and baking tools are provided, so you don’t need to bring anything except your enthusiasm.

Creative Garnishing: Once your tarts are filled and topped, you’ll slide them into the oven. Meanwhile, Virginia encourages you to think about how to personalize your pastries with toppings—perhaps a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of sugar.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor: While the pastries bake, you’ll enjoy a beverage—coffee, water, juice, or Port wine—accompanied by informal chats about Portuguese cuisine and culture. This part is often highlighted as a favorite moment in reviews, with many guests mentioning how relaxed and convivial it feels.

Tasting and Photos: After baking, it’s time to taste. You’ll be able to savor your homemade Pastel de Nata, paired with a glass of Port wine in Virginia’s garden. Guests often remark on how delicious the pastries are, with many saying they plan to try the recipe at home.

What Reviewers Say

Guests consistently praise Virginia for her warm hosting style and clear instructions. One reviewer noted, “Virginia is a top host,” highlighting her approachable manner and genuine hospitality. Another remarked that “the recipe, workshop, and tasting were perfect,” and appreciated the opportunity to chat over local produce and Port wine—describing it as “pure bliss.”

The small group size (limited to six) ensures plenty of individual attention, making it easier to ask questions and pick up tips. The reviews reflect a genuine sense of camaraderie and fun, with guests leaving not just with a new skill but also with warm memories.

Why the Price is Justified

At $40 per person, this workshop offers excellent value. It includes all ingredients, utensils, insurance, and unlimited beverages. The intimate setting and personalized guidance mean you’re not just a passive observer but an active participant. It’s an affordable way to learn a local recipe, enjoy delicious Portuguese wine, and take home a handmade pastry with a story behind it.

Practical Details

Location: In the center of Porto, at an address identifiable by the sign “BJ” above the door. The meeting point is at the apartment on the 2nd floor, Apartment E. The activity ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for those staying nearby.

Duration: 2 hours, with start times varying based on availability—check ahead to find a slot that fits your schedule.

Language: Conducted in Portuguese and French. While this might be a barrier for some, the instructions are clear, and Virginia’s friendly demeanor helps bridge any language gaps.

Group Size: Limited to six participants, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience.

Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travel plans.

Is This Experience Right for You?

If you’re a foodie eager to learn traditional recipes with a personal touch, this workshop is perfect. It’s especially great if you appreciate authentic experiences over touristy shortcuts. The focus on local ingredients and family recipes ensures you walk away with a genuine taste of Portuguese culture.

Travelers who seek a cozy, intimate activity—away from large groups or commercialized classes—will find this workshop appealing. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for those comfortable with basic kitchen activities and who speak French or Portuguese, as instructions are delivered in these languages.

While children under six aren’t accepted, older kids and teenagers who are enthusiastic about baking might find this a fun family activity. Also, those with reduced mobility might need to consider accessibility, as the workshop hosts are unable to accommodate them comfortably.

The Sum Up

This Porto pastry workshop offers a wonderful blend of culinary skill, warm hospitality, and cultural insight. For just $40, you gain not only the ability to recreate one of Portugal’s most treasured desserts but also the chance to enjoy local drinks and meet fellow travelers in a friendly setting. It’s perfect for those looking to deepen their appreciation of Portuguese cuisine in a relaxed, authentic environment.

The experience truly shines because of Virginia’s personable hosting and the genuine family recipe she shares. Guests leave with more than just a pastry—they take home a story, a new skill, and a taste of Porto that you can’t get from sightseeing alone.

If you’re interested in learning how to make Pastel de Nata while soaking up local atmosphere and enjoying Port wine, this workshop should be on your Porto bucket list.

FAQ

Is this workshop suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old cannot participate, but older children with an interest in baking might enjoy it, provided they are comfortable in a small group setting.

In what languages is the workshop conducted?
The workshop is held in Portuguese or French. Participants should be comfortable with either language to get the most out of the experience.

What’s included in the price?
All utensils, ingredients, and beverages (coffee, water, juice, Port wine) are included. Insurance is also covered.

How long does the workshop last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability—be sure to check and reserve in advance.

Where exactly is the meeting point?
You meet at the building with “BJ” written above the door, ring the bell on the 2nd floor at Apartment E. The activity concludes where it started.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the small group size is limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

What should I wear or bring?
Everything needed is provided, so just wear comfortable clothing suitable for baking. An apron might be optional but isn’t required.

What makes this workshop stand out?
The warm, homely atmosphere combined with the chance to learn a cherished family recipe, topped off with Port wine and local music, creates a truly memorable experience.

In essence, this workshop is a charming way to add a personal culinary touch to your Lisbon trip, offering a genuine slice of Porto life with a sweet reward at the end.