Santa Nata (Hong Kong, CHINA) ★★★★☆

The acclaimed Santa Nata from London has opened its first Asian venture in Central this July. Known for its 300-year-old traditional monastery recipe for making Pastel de Nata (Portuguese egg tarts), the brand has added an exciting twist to the local food scene just after Lisbon-based Manteigaria was welcomed here last month.

The shop features an open kitchen, allowing customers to watch their pastry chefs work diligently behind the scenes.

Pastel de Nata ($14) — This was noticeably less sweet than the ones from Manteigaria or those we’ve tasted in Portugal. Perhaps the recipe has been finely tuned to better suit local palates?

What I enjoyed most was the flaky pastry shell and the caramelized custard centre, infused with vanilla, cinnamon, and lemon zest. Overall, the flavor is gentler on the palate, thanks to its subtler sweetness.

Verdict:

Known for my seriously spoiled sweet tooth, I would say the Pastel de Nata from Santa Nata and Manteigaria are equally delicious. The difference really comes down to preference: do you like it sweeter (more authentic) or slightly less sweet (more healthy)?

Food Rating: 7/10

Price: $$$

Address: G/F, 25-27 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong

Closest Metro Station: Central

Tel: +852 3594-5724

Opening Hours: 8:00am - 9:00pm daily