The quest for the perfect Portuguese tart, or pastel de nata, is a delicious pursuit for many food lovers in the Illawarra. With its signature crisp, flaky pastry shell and velvety, caramel-topped custard centre, this iconic treat has developed a cult following. For those wondering where to find the best versions locally, several bakeries stand out for their authentic recipes and dedicated craftsmanship.
The Wollongong Central Master: Royal Bakery
For many locals, the first name that comes to mind for an authentic Portuguese tart is Royal Bakery, located downstairs in Wollongong Central. Owner Carlos Torcato, who hails from Mafra in Portugal and began baking at age 12, brings deep expertise to his pastries.
Torcato credits the quality of his tarts to the lamination process. "The secret is in the layering of butter and dough," he explains. His method uses only two turns of the dough, compared to the four typically used for supermarket versions, resulting in a notably crispier texture. When the butter boils during baking, it separates the dough into delicate, flaky layers.
The recipe itself is traditional. "This is the main recipe in Portugal," Torcato states, confidently adding that he believes his tarts are the best not just in the Illawarra, but across the entire Sydney region. Royal Bakery is open from 7:30 am to 4 pm six days a week, and from 8:30 am on Sundays.
The Corrimal Production Powerhouse: Baker Street
You may have already enjoyed a tart from Baker Street without realising it. This Corrimal-based business, founded in 1985 by the Corban family, produces European pastries on a commercial scale for cafes and shops across the area. However, the public can also buy directly from their factory at 4 Ruddock Street.
General manager Manuel Villalon says they have been baking Portuguese tarts for around 16 years and now produce a staggering 10,000 units per week with a team of 29 bakers and chefs. He emphasises the difficulty of perfecting the three key elements: a crunchy base, a velvety soft egg custard, and the characteristic caramelised top.
Their recipe is a traditional one passed down from a former Portuguese employee. Savvy shoppers head to the factory door for a bargain, particularly on Fridays, where a box of 40 tarts sells for $69 instead of the retail price of $85.
Specialists and Newcomers Making Their Mark
On the south side, The Portuguese Tart is a business dedicated solely to this beloved pastry. Run by Celia Vieira, who was born in Porto, the operation sells online and from a Saturday stall at Stockland Shellharbour. Vieira turned a family recipe and a popular "isolation box" initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic into a full-fledged business.
Meanwhile, Alexander's Bakery Southside is a relative newcomer building a strong reputation. With outlets in Corrimal Village and Wollongong's Crown Street Mall, their Portuguese tarts have developed such a devoted following that they often sell out by 11 am. The pastries are made fresh daily at their Corrimal kitchen.
From the traditional expertise of Royal Bakery to the large-scale production of Baker Street and the specialised passion of smaller operators, Illawarra residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a superb Portuguese tart. The common thread is a commitment to an authentic, high-quality recipe that delivers the perfect balance of crisp pastry, silky custard, and caramelised sweetness.
