Confeitaria Nacional

In the run-up to Christmas, this beautiful and historic cafe and bakery sells the deliciously rich and sticky Bolo Rei � "King Cake". This yuletide treat is a festive tradition and is sold as a complete cake, or in quarters to take out. It's the Portuguese version of the Christmas cake, and resembles a huge ringed doughnut. It's filled with raisons, topped with crystalized fruits and dusted with icing sugar � an irresistible combination. Founded in 1892 and still run by the same family, this outstanding confectioner has retained its classical appearance. The elegant interior is replete with dark wood panelling, marble counters and a dazzling mirrored ceiling that reflects the displays of hand baked traditional Portuguese biscuits, cakes and pastries the cafe is famous for.