Typical Wednesday, regular cafe, except that you’re in Portugal. Once you enter into the richness of baking goods, through the always open door, the air feels loaded. To the blend of knocks and sizzling of coffee preparation, a lot of conversation with a lot of “Pois”, you add your “Bom dia! É um café e um pastel de nata, por favor.” And there is when you´re truly in. The looks you exchange have familiarity in them, as everything merges accordingly to the plan. «Quer este ou um mais torradinho?» she asks. I always wondered if there is any personality conclusion they make out of our response… «Canela? – Sim, por favor. Deixe estar que eu levo, obrigada.» Because why not, you’re in, remember? No need for protocol. Well, now you’re looking at the tiny espresso sourcer cup and a sweet vanilla heaven, sprinkled with cinnamon – not withouth some effort though – god damn the dispenser, or it pours never enough or it pours always too much. Anyway, it’s time to finally taste. First bite. The full loaded, creamy and tender filling is contrasting with crisp puff pastry crumbling into thinnest flakes, falling on your palm. You´re tasting the portuguese generosity. And that is how you enjoy it. That is how you show respect for the iconic. This delight will leave the fingertips shiny and greasy. So, naturally, you’ll reach for that stainless steel box, not because the tiny, plasticky napkins will do the supposed, but just because you’re stubborn. Lastly, don’t you forget to swipe your tongue through your teeth, no need to brag. Now you’re good to go, the ritual is complete. Ladies and gentleman, please, put your spoons away. 

*Pois: Portuguese word used in conversation to express empathy