Casa Lapao - Vila Real

Visiting Vila Real was initially just a stop on the way to Lamego. It turned out to be one of our favorite places in northern Portugal. Because it wasn’t in our plans we missed the lunch hour, but because they are primarily a pastry shop, they were open a little later in the afternoon. We started with some savory samosas, but their specialties is their sweet pastries. Their signature selection is the Crista de Galo which is a local version of the ubiquitous egg custard pastries in Portugal. Their version is lighter and has a bit more fruit flavoring than the typical pastel de nata and has won several regional awards. We sat outside eating with coffee and fresh squeezed juices while enjoying some lovely jazz music playing from their shop front. Afterward, as the were closing, the invited me to tour their kitchen which has been operated by the family for generations.

A great experience, the warm hospitality, the traditional way of preparation, we really enjoyed it, highly recommend i

Absolutely amazing experience in CASA LAPAO We are a family with 3 young children (9,7,2), and had the candy workshop. Kids loved it and we enjoyed every moment of our time here. Rosa, the owner (4th generation), made us feel like home from the first second. H I G H L Y R E C O M M E D E D !!

This tiny cafe has a big kitchen- they must supply local shops. But on display are all the local specialities and local hospitality. Nestled in a small lane in the hear t of the old centre of Vila Real, an ideal place to buy some tarts and cakes to take home. Or a quick espresso and recharge. We tried pork bread and Cristas de Galo (rooster coxcombe).

Service was most nice and efficient there, no comments on the matter!! But the pastries were a big disappointment, especially the famous crista de galo , almost no filling!!