Bakers of All Nations Serves Up Tasty Treats

If you have not tried the "Natas," the "Tosta Mista" or the "Torrada," you are missing some of the tastiest treats any Long Island eatery has to offer. The good news is you do not have to travel far to find it, for it is close to home in Mineola at 54-56 East Jericho Turnpike. is an expansive, well-lit establishment that is as pleasing to your senses as it is to your wallet.

Proprietors Paula Rego and John Malheiro, former workers at the 25-year-old bakery, bought the business 5 years ago. Large compared with other bakeries, Bakers of All Nations boasts enough tables to seat 45 patrons. "We feel cozy here, it's very family oriented," Rego said.

The bakery specializes in pastries, breads and sandwiches, its signature pastry being the Natas, a Portuguese custard that is especially delicious with a little cinnamon sprinkled on top. This pastry costs just $1, "Natas is the most famous Portuguese custard," Rego said.

The Tosta Mista is a ham and cheese favorite served on a Portuguese white bread that resembles a Panini. At $4.75, the Tosta Mista is the most expensive item on the menu. Many of the regulars also love the toast, or Torrado, a $2 item. "That's a major request for breakfast," Rego said.

Signature breads include a Portuguese cornbread, which features a crusty exterior, and is delicious with butter.

While the name "Bakers of All Nations" has existed for 25 years, the moniker is a bit of a misnomer, since most of the menu items are Portuguese-based. Paul and John kept the name primarily because it was well known in Mineola. The bottom line is the food is fresh and fabulous.

"Seeing people happy with the product we sell, seeing the smiles on their faces brings me the most satisfaction," Rego said.

Bakers of All Nations also does an extensive wholesale business, selling to steady clients including Wheatley Hills Country Club, North Hempstead Country Club, Leonard's of Great Neck and Bonwit Inn. The establishment also supplies to food service companies that cater to the airline industry.

About 50 percent of the business is retail. Bakers of All Nations is busy on Sundays after church, as well as during the weekdays before regular working hours. Then there are those who will drop in on a cold Saturday afternoon for a pastry and a Cappuccino, and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of this beautiful bakery.

"Bring your friend, enjoy a beautiful cup of Cappuccino and enjoy the environment here," Rego said.