Natas Pastries Cafe & Restaurant Menu

Natas Pastries Cafe & Restaurant Restaurant Review:

Natas is one of the very few Portuguese eateries in all of L.A., and it’s a real charmer. Nata means “cream,” and pasteis de nata is a signature egg-cream pastry tart expertly prepared by friendly owner Fatima Marques. Next to the busy bakery, however, is a diminutive yet delightful dining room clad in signature blue-and-white Portuguese ceramic tiles and illuminated by crystal chandeliers and sconces. Begin with croquetes --- the bacalhau (salt cod) being the best and most classic version --- or the country’s famous caldo verde soup made from kale, potatoes and chouriço (chorizo). A velvety gratin of bacalhau, shrimp and potatoes is offered, as are a version of steak au poivre or traditional feijoada, the black bean stew often associated with Brazil. There are a number of Portuguese wines provided. Desserts include a wide array of cakes and tarts baked on the premises. Breakfast features house special french toast made with Portuguese sweet bread.