Piriquita, Sintra

Piriquita, a pastry shop steeped in tradition, has been delighting visitors in Sintra, since its founding in 1862. What began as a humble bakery by Amaro dos Santos and his wife Constancia Gomes grew into an enduring legacy, thanks in part to a royal connection. King D. Carlos I, a frequent summer visitor to Sintra, nicknamed Constancia "Piriquita" due to her petite stature and encouraged the couple to produce Queijadas, Portugal’s beloved cheesecakes. The treats became an instant hit, setting the stage for Piriquita’s evolution into a renowned pastry shop.

In the 1940s, amidst the upheaval of World War II, innovation took root in the heart of Sintra. Constancia Luísa dos Santos Cunha, the founders’ granddaughter, unearthed an old recipe and crafted the now-famous Travesseiro de Sintra. This flaky puff pastry filled with creamy egg jam, almonds, and a secret ingredient remains a best-kept family secret, passed down through six generations and adored worldwide.

Today, Piriquita is more than a pastry shop; it’s a testament to culinary craftsmanship and family resilience. From golden walnuts glazed with caramel to the cinnamon-laced Queijadas prepared with traditional Saloia techniques, the counters of Casa Piriquita overflow with aromas and flavors that captivate every visitor. The friendly staff and reasonable prices ensure that each visit feels as warm as the freshly baked pastries.

A stop at Piriquita isn’t complete without indulging in a Travesseiro, its delicate layers and rich filling a true emblem of Sintra’s gastronomic charm. Whether you’re savoring the famed Queijadas or exploring the wide variety of handmade delicacies, Piriquita continues to honor its legacy of delighting palates for over 160 years.