Listen up, Portuguese tart lovers! Your prayers have been answered.
Casa de Nata, a family-run farmer’s market fave known for ridiculously good pastéis de nata, has finally opened its first permanent shop right in Gastown!
No more waiting for market day – you can now get your fix whenever the craving hits.
They officially grand opened their doors on April 12th, taking over the spot that used to be Caveman Cafe (and briefly a pizza/shawarma joint) on West Cordova.
Casa de Natas started back in 2020 after co-owner Steph, inspired by a family trip to Lisbon filled with lots of nata-eating, wanted to bring that authentic taste and cozy vibe back home.
Talk about dedication!
And trust us, Vancouver noticed.
We swung by on opening day in the afternoon, and the place was absolutely buzzing.
Like, properly packed.
When we popped in, the fruit natas (raspberry that day!) were already completely sold out.
We were told fresh traditional natas would be ready in 15 minutes and wisely put our names down for two. Good thing we did!
When we came back, the staff told us ours were basically the last ones standing – only 3 others remained before they sold out again.
Wild.
Verdict? Getting them fresh and hot is chef’s kiss.
That creamy, flavourful custard centre? So darn good.
Beyond the star natas (which also come in vegan!), the menu’s got other Portuguese comforts covered. (See the menu below!)
Think hearty soups like Caldo Verde and iconic sandos like the Bifana (pork) and the mighty Francesinha (beef sandwich smothered in sauce).
Plus, proper coffee like a Galão (Portuguese latte).
The vibe inside matches the food: warm, sunny, and full of life.
Bright yellow walls meet classic blue Portuguese tiles, with lots of wood tones and plants.
It feels welcoming and genuinely happy, even with the bustling crowd.
Casa de Nata is the latest exciting addition to the downtown scene, joining recent openings like Small Victory Cafe, the Paragon Tea Room pop-up, Taco Bell, Sio Bread, and Chao Mami Express.
Seriously, run, don’t walk, if you want to snag one of these authentic tarts before they inevitably sell out again.
Will you be stopping by Gastown for a taste of Portugal? Let us know!
For more new and upcoming food spots in Metro Vancouver, take a peek at our tracker here, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.
Address: 415 Abbott St, Gastown, Vancouver BC