Some flavours cross oceans. And some stories are best told at the table. In 2025, Nata Pura brings the pastel de nata — a symbol of Portuguese pastry — to Expo 2025 Osaka, celebrating centuries of connection between the two countries.
Portugal pavilion: the Ocean as a starting point
The theme of the Portuguese pavilion — “Ocean: the Blue Dialogue” — pays tribute to the sea as a link between peoples, cultures and knowledge. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the structure stands out for its use of recycled fishing nets and maritime ropes, evoking the movement of waves and underscoring a strong commitment to sustainability.
This pavilion represents an opportunity to showcase the very best of Portugal — from innovation to tradition, from design to gastronomy.
The pastel de nata as a cultural ambassador
Among the many sensory experiences available at the pavilion, Nata Pura’s presence in the official restaurant is an irresistible invitation to taste. Our pastéis de nata, made using a traditional recipe and strict quality control, have become one of the visitors’ favorite choices — for many, it’s their first time discovering this iconic Portuguese treat.
The response has been enthusiastic. Some visitors return to savour another one. Others leave with the flavour still lingering and a growing curiosity to discover more about Portugal.
A long-standing connection
The relationship between Portugal and Japan is nothing new. As early as the 16th century, Portuguese navigators were the first Europeans to reach the Japanese archipelago. With them came products, techniques and… words.
Japanese linguist Tetsuo Harada recently highlighted how words like “pão” (bread), “botão” (button), “copo” (glass), “álcool” (alcohol) and “caramelo” (caramel) entered the Japanese vocabulary through Portuguese. This legacy lives on in language and now finds new life through flavour — like that of our pastel de nata.
A global stage with real impact
Expo 2025 Osaka brings together over 150 national pavilions and expects to welcome around 28 million visitors over six months. Nata Pura seizes this global stage as a strategic opportunity to strengthen its position in the Asian market — especially in Japan, where the product continues to gain recognition for its authenticity, practicality, and indulgent character.
For the Nata Pura team, this participation is also a way to build commercial relationships, listen directly to the end consumer, and continue developing a brand that is proudly Portuguese, but with a global ambition.
At Nata Pura, we believe every pastel tells a story. In Osaka, that story is about encounters, flavor, and cultural bridges.
Follow our journey at Expo 2025 Osaka and learn more about us at www.natapura.com or on our LinkedIn.
