Where to Eat the Best Food in Rio de Janeiro

Over various trips to Brazil, with wildly varying budgets, it’s fair to say I’ve eaten my way around the country.

From unpronounceable Amazonian fruit to coracao de frango at the Brazilian churrascaria, it’s been quite the journey. Luckily, trying to find good food is of my favourite things to do while travelling.

But, I’m just a regular gal who likes to eat, so why trust me?

Well, after four visits, and over a year in the country altogether, this is the list I would put together for my friends who are visiting Rio and want to know where to go.

Over the years I’ve received recommendations from local friends, scoured Portuguese-language lists and blog posts, and stumbled across some of my own favourites. From street stalls to Michelin stars, back streets to beachfronts and everything in between.

So here it is - my comprehensive, delicious, and somewhat erratic list of the best places to eat and the best food in Rio de Janeiro.

Bom apetite!

**WHERE TO FIND THE BEST FOOD IN RIO DE JANEIRO**

**CAFES |** for coffee, breakfasts or snacks
**KIOSKS |** beach-front eats
**BARS |** drinks and bar snacks
**RESTAURANTS |** from neighbourhood faves to fine dining
**FOODS TO TRY |** local specialties you must try in Brazil

CAFES & BAKERIES

LA BICYCLETTE

$$$$ | JARDIM BOTÂNICO | Rua Pacheco Leão, 320 - Loja D - Jardim Botânico, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22460-030

La Bicyclette is the perfect spot for lunch after visiting the adjacent Botanical Gardens. Set in a leafy street in this up-market residential neighbourhood, this bakery and cafe serves up delicious sandwiches and baked goods that are some of the best food in Rio. Baked goods can also be ordered to-go, or even delivered to you by, surprise surprise, bicycle.

When to visit | Brunch or lunch in conjunction with visiting the Botanical Gardens (avoid Wednesdays when the gardens are closed).

What to eat | Try out the local avocados - this is the spot in Rio to grab an avocado on toast.

Alternatives | Absurda Confeitaria though it is slightly pricier, this cafe further along the street is a good alternative.

CAPITU CAFÉ

$$$$ | COSME VELHO | R. Cosme Velho, 174 - Cosme Velho, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22241-090

Conveniently located just down the road from the Christ the Redeemer train station, Capitu Café is a great place to stop in for a coffee and pão de queijo before heading up to the famous statue. The cafe is situated in the former residence of Brazilian literary great Machado de Assis and the interior decor follows this theme. Despite it’s proximity to the biggest tourist attraction in Rio, the cafe attracts more locals than foreign tourists.

When to visit | Before hopping on the train up Corcovado Mountain to Christ the Redeemer.

What to eat | The best Brazilian breakfast snack, a deliciously cheesy pão de queijo.

Alternatives | If you’re really hungry, there is a cafe up at Christ the Redeemer, but be prepared to pay elevated tourist prices.

CONFEITARIA COLOMBO

$$$$ | CENTRO | R. Gonçalves Dias, 32 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20050-030

For equal parts history and refreshment, stop by Confeitaria Colombo. This landmark cafe from the 1800’s is still serving beautiful coffees and cakes in its majestic, mirror-lined tearooms. It’s also been named as one of the 10 most beautiful cafes in the world and is an iconic spot for some of the best food in Rio.

When to visit | There’s usually a queue, so get there for opening time (typically 11am, so don’t head here for breakfast).

What to eat | As Brazil is famous for it’s coffee production, this is the spot to try the signature brew.

Alternatives | Confeitaria Colombo now has a second outpost at Forte de Copacabana

PLAGE CAFÉ

$$$$ | PARQUE LAGE |R. Jardim Botânico, 414 - Parque Lage, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22461-000

It’s pricy as far as cafes go, but the location of Plage Café is pretty hard to beat. Nestled under Corcovado mountain (peek the statue in the clouds above), this stunning classical building is surrounded by jungle. The cafe itself is situated in the central courtyard surrounding the pool and should be high on your list of where to eat in Rio.

When to visit | On a sunny day, as eating is mostly outside under umbrellas. You’ll also get the best views of Christo too.

What to eat | Splash out on a full breakfast featuring local specialties like Minas cheese, or simply a piece of cake such as Bolo de cenoura (brazilian-style carrot cake) or Bolo de Formiga (chocolate chip cake).

Alternatives | For an alternative option located in a restored historic setting, head to Mandala Café in Parque das Ruínas.

Plage cafe located inside Parque Lage historical building — Plage Cafe is located inside the beautiful Parque Lage

FARRO

$$$$ | COPACABANA |Av. Nossa Sra. de Copacabana, 630 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22050-001

The central Copacabana spot Farro is an easy go to for coffee and pastries before heading out for a day of exploring. There’s a huge counter displaying all the baked goods, which can be eaten sitting down or to take away.

When to visit | Head here if your Copa hotel doesn’t serve breakfast.

What to eat | Your morning coffee and pastry.

Alternatives | Another popular bakery meets cafe in Copacabana is Pão & Companhia, which has a few locations.

ARMAZÉM DO CAFÉ

$$$$ | LEBLON |Av. Ataulfo de Paiva, 375 - Loja C - Leblon, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22440-032

Armazém do Café is the place to go for coffee aficionados to try locally sourced beans as it serves some of the best coffee in Rio. Pick a bean sourced direct from regional Brazilian farms and have it served as either espresso, or, the preferred local method of pour-over.

When to visit | You need to your daily shot of caffeine.

What to drink | As local as you can go - try the Rio de Janeiro beans, sourced from a farm within the state of RJ.

Alternatives | There are a few locations throughout the Zona Sul, and even one out in Barra da Tijuca.

KIOSKS (QUIOSQUES) & STREET FOOD

OAKBERRY AÇAÍ

$$$$ | IPANEMA |Av. Vieira Souto, s/n - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22420-000

Hard to pronounce but easy to eat, açaí is now loved around the world. Originating in Brazil, açaí (ah-sigh-ee) is a must eat while in Rio de Janeiro and Oakberry is the go to spot for a delicious bowl. With various spots around the city, it’s not hard to get your hands on the original smoothie bowl.

When to visit | A healthy lunch treat.

What to eat |The beachfront shack I’ve added to the map will serve up the quintessential Rio experience.

Alternatives | Bibi Sucos is a local juice chain that also does an excellent açaí bowl.

LARGO DO MACHADO

$$$$ | CATETE |Largo do Machado - Catete, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22221-020

I’ve given myself a challenge here by recommending a place with no name and no online presence, but I guess the point of including this on the list is to show that it’s easy to stumble across great street food in Rio! I still have memories of a delicious pastel de queijo (cheese pastry) that I picked up from a street food cart that was parked up in Largo do Machado.

When to visit | This square is a common transit point when heading up to Christ the Redeemer, and as such the square usually has an assortment of vendors and a pretty regular market setup.

What to try | My personal favourite treat, a shredded-chicken stuffed croquette called coxinha.

Alternatives | If you don’t happen to pass by here, there are plenty of other spots around the city to pick up a quick yet tasty bite to eat. Ipanema Hippie Market is another popular market to try.

QUIOSQUE CHOPP BRAHMA 23

$$$$ | COPACABANA |Calçadão da Praia - Av. Atlântica - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22070-002

Beers and burgers on red plastic beach chairs is about as Brazilian as it gets, and there’s no shortage of spots to park up at whilst you enjoy a day in the famous Rio sun. Quiosques (kiosks, aka beach huts) line the beachfront along Copacabana and Ipanema, serving up delicious seafood, burgers and icy cold beers. Some have evolved into beach clubs, pumping tunes throughout the day, whilst others feature live music into the small hours. Quiosque Chopp Brahma 23 was across the road from our hotel and was busy even on rainy evenings, and featured live music most nights.

When to visit | On a summer’s evening it’s the perfect spot to people watch out along the boardwalk.

What to try | An icy cold beer whilst listening to live pagode music.

Alternatives | With over 50 kiosks along Copacabana Beach alone, you can’t go wrong by pulling into a busy looking quiosque as you saunter along the passarela (translate to catwalk or boardwalk, your choice!).

BARRACA DE COCO

$$$$ | IPANEMA/COPACABANA |Various along the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana

Another one for the list that’s hard to identify due to no on-line presence! Barracas de coco (coconut stands) are plentiful along all the Rio beaches - just find the closest and get one opened up. There’s nothing better than fresh coconut water!

When to visit | Anytime you’re at the beach.

What to try | Avoid the areas right front of the fancy hotels or at the most popular postos as prices tend to be higher.

Alternatives | Expect to pay higher prices from beach clubs and kiosks than from those set up on the sand.

Looking for the best things to do in Rio de Janiero?

Check out this post: The Ultimate Rio de Janeiro Itinerary & Travel Guide

BAR SNACKS & PETISCOS (TAPAS)

BAR URCA

$$$$ | URCA | R. Cândido Gaffrée, 205 - Urca, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22291-080

Slightly off the regular tourist trail, but so close to the main attraction Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf Mountain), Bar Urca is one of the best places to eat in Rio de Janiero. Nestled under the granite cliffs, there’s a seated restaurant upstairs, but do as the locals do and order some bar snacks and beers from the counter downstairs. Then, nip across the road to find a spare spot to sit on the seawall and enjoy the sunshine, fresh air and sweeping views of Guanabara Bay.

When to visit | Grab a perch on the seawall in time for the sunset.

What to try | Bolinhos de bacalhau (fried cod balls) - this waterfront spot is the perfect place to try the local speciality.

Alternatives | If you’d rather eat up the top of Pão de Açúcar, try Clássico Beach Club for great views.

ADEGA PEROLA

$$$$ | COPACABANA | Rua Siqueira Campos, 138 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22031-010

Stal-wart tapas bar Adéga Perola is where to eat the best petiscos (brazilian-style tapas) and chopp (draft beers). Located a block back from Siqueira Campos metro station, it’s easy to get to, albeit in the opposite direction that most tourists head, meaning you’ll find mostly a local crowd. If you’re there early enough, grab a table next to the bar, otherwise your group can spill cheerfully onto the busy pavement outside.

When to visit | Best for an evening catchup with friends, or pre-drinks before catching the metro to a game at Maracanã.

What to try | Rather a regular bowl of fries, try the local version Mandioca frita (cassava chips). Note they are also known as Aipim.

Alternatives | A few blocks away, another great spot is Bar Pavão Azul.

adega perola is a place to find the best food in Rio

GAROTA DA IPANEMA

$$$$ | IPANEMA | R. Vinícius de Moraes, 49 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22411-010

You might recognise this famous bassanova tune, The Girl from Ipanema, whilst wandering along Ipanema Beach. Well, legend says that it has its roots in this exact spot. Back then it was called Bar Veloso and word has it that is where the composer and writer spotted the girl who inspired the legendary song. The bar is now known as Garota de Ipanema (The Girl from Ipanema).

When to visit | Lunch after a morning relaxing on Ipanema beach.

What to try | Try a classic Brazilian meal of steak, feijão (beans) and arroz (rice).

Alternatives | Bar Veloso, is a homage to the original, now located further along the beach in trendy Leblon.

ALTO VIDIGAL

$$$$ | VIDIGAL | R. Armando Almeida Lima, 2 - Vidigal, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22452-030

Don’t let it’s favela location deter you from seeking out the million-dollar views on offer from Alto Vidigal! Firmly on the radar but still a bit of an adventure, take a moto-taxi from Avenida Niemeyer up the steep, narrow streets to this bar that’s as famous for it’s insane views as its weekend samba parties that last into the small hours.

When to visit | Pop in for burgers after hiking Morro Dois Irmãos, and stay for the live music and samba parties.

What to try | A X-burger (the letter ‘X’ is pronounced similar to ‘cheese’) will hit the spot after a big hike.

Alternatives | If you’re keen to safely visit a pacified favela, try Bar do David up the back of Leme. It was put on the map by TV series Somebody Feed Phil.

RIO SCENARIUM

$$$$ | CENTRO | R. do Lavradio, 20 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20230-070

I’m sneaking this one onto this list, though it’s more of a bar in the traditional sense where the drinks and music are the focus, though food is served. Rio Scenarium is set over multiple levels, if you want to test out your samba skills, head downstairs to the dance floor, otherwise head upstairs to grab a seat and listen to the live music.

When to visit | Check the programme for upcoming events - Saturday’s are usually samba & feijoada night, book in advance.

What to try | Head here at night to taste some of Rio’s famous night-life ;)

RESTAURANTS

BAR DO MINEIRO

$$$$ | SANTA TERESA | Rua Paschoal Carlos Magno, 99 - Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20240-290

No visit to Santa Teresa is complete without jumping off the tram for food or a beer at one of the highly rated local bars and restaurants. Just down the road from tram stop Largo dos Guimarães is Bar do Mineiro, famous for it’s hearty local dishes like feijoada and pasteis, as well as an icy cup of chopp (draft beer). This place serves up some of the best food in Rio de Janiero.

When to visit | Plan a lunch stop off from the Santa Teresa tram.

What to try | Local delicacy feijoada is their speciality.

Alternatives | Cafe do Alto or Aprazível

people dine at bar do mineiro best food in rio

BOTECA BELMONTE

$$$$ | IPANEMA | Av. Vieira Souto, 236 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22420-004

Boteca Belmonte has become so popular that there are now branches throughout the Zona Sul of Rio de Janeiro. The Ipanema location is located in an epic sky high ceiling-ed spot, where rounds of draft beer (chopp) and bar snacks are served up to stylish cariocas. Chances are you’ll have to queue up for a table, but don’t worry, you’ll quickly be served a glass of beer to enjoy whilst waiting in line!

When to visit | Sundowners, arrive before dinner to avoid a queue.

What to try | Work your way through all the caiparinha flavours and try an assortment of snacks from the passing waiters, some of the best in Rio!

Alternatives | other locations such as Flamengo or Leme

CASA OMOLOKUM

$$$$ | SAUDE | R. Tia Ciata, 51 - Saúde, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20081-040

Casa Omolokum is the place to taste the history of Brazil. From it’s afro-brazil roots, here you can try some of the most delicious specialities from the north-east regions such as Bobó de Camarão, a rich prawn stew, and Xinxim de Galinha, a sweet and sour chicken curry. There’s no doubt the flavours are some of the tastiest in Rio.

When to visit | Fri-Sun, for lunch or an early dinner

What to try | The daily menu full of typical Baiano dishes.

ORO

$$$$ | IPANEMA | Av. Vieira Souto, 236 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22420-004

Holding two Michelin stars, Oro should be on your radar for Brazilian fine dining. Featuring local ingredients paired together in unexpected ways, you’ll be sure to try some incredible things that will keep your tastebuds guessing. We found the tasting menu featuring two mains to be plenty - but there is the option for four mains if you want to try everything.

When to visit | Dinner for a special occasion.

What to try | Work your way through one of the tasting menus.

Alternatives | Lasai

PÉRGULA

$$$$ | COPACABANA | Av. Atlântica, 1702 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22021-001

The Copacabana Palace Hotel is famous the world over, so stopping in for a drink or a meal at one of it’s restaurants is one of the most iconic things to do in Rio. Pérgula is the easiest option for lunch and a sneak peek inside the hotel. Given Brazilian cuisine is typically meat heavy, those with a plant-based will be happy to find the vegan/vegetarian options available here.

When to visit | Lunch poolside on a sunny day (though the inside is beautiful even in the rain!)

What to try | Local seafood dishes with an Italian spin.

Alternatives | Ristorante Hotel Cipriani or Restaurante Mee are the two Michelin star restaurants located inside the hotel.

BRAZILIAN FOODS TO TRY IN RIO DE JANEIRO

Here are some of the best local foods to try in Rio de Janeiro:

CHURRASCO (chew-hass-co)

Brazilian BBQ - all you can eat meat! From picanha steak to coração de frango, vegetarians might want to look elsewhere.

MANDIOCA (man-jock-ah)

Cassava root - also known as aipim in some regions of Brazil, this is a great local alternative to regular potato fries. Order a side of these with your round of beers.

CHOPP (shop-pe)

Draft beer - on tap and also unpasteurised, it’s a great way to ensure an icy cold beer. The most common brands are Brahma and Skol, but craft beer is now taking off in Brazil too.

PASTEL (pas-tel)

Pastry - is usually a savoury dish in Brazil, unlike the sweet portugese tarts called Pastel de Nata. Typical fillings include cheese, ground beef or palm heart. The plural is pastéis (pas-ties).

AÇAÍ (ah-sigh-ee)

Açaí doesn’t have an English translation, but chances you’ve heard of this one. Considered a superfood and inspiring many a smoothie bowl, this tasty fruit originates from the Amazon.

ACEROLA (ah-sear-ol-a)

Another Brazilian fruit, the acerola is a type of cherry, and you’ll find it as a juice available in Rio’s many juice bars.

CAIPARINHA (kai-par-een-ya)

This famous cocktail is now available all over the world, but you need to try one in it’s native Brazil. The traditional drink is made up of lime juice, sugar and cachaça (sugar cane rum) but can be made with any type of fruit. Other than traditional lime, my personal favourite is maracuja (passionfruit).

COXINHAS (coh-sheen-yas)

Translating to ‘chicken thighs’, these delicious deep-fried treats are one of my favourite brazilian street foods. Shredded chicken, covered is mashed potato and then coated in breadcrumbs, this is a more-ish little snack!

CAJU (ka-joo)

Everyone has heard of (or eaten) cashew nuts, but did you know the cashew fruit is edible too? I’d never heard of cashew fruit until I went to Brazil and found that it’s very common as a juice flavour. Slightly astringent, it has an apple-like flavour and is definitely a must-try in Brazil.

BOLINHOS DE BACALHAU (bol-een-yoos de ba-cal-yeow)

Codfish croquettes - these little deep fried snacks are a great accompaniment to a few drinks and are a very popular snack at bars or as a quick streetfood. Typically served with a squeeze of lime!

PÃO DE QUEIJO (p-aoow de ke-ee-joo)

Last, but certainly not least, is the most delicious little morsels that should be eaten with every morning coffee you have in Brazil. Small but mighty, these little cheese breads will have you going back for more - one is never enough!

MAP OF WHERE TO EAT THE BEST FOOD IN RIO DE JANERIRO

SAFETY FOR VISITORS TO RIO DE JANEIRO

STICK TO SAFE NEIGHBOURHOODS

All of the locations listed in this article are located in neighbourhoods considered safe for tourists, at the right time of day.

Whilst you’re never far from a favela in Rio, my belief is that people generally have good intentions and if you expect the best but prepare for the worst, you won’t attract negativity or bad luck. That said, organised crime does exist in Rio (as it does in most major cities around the world) and being aware of your surroundings is important.

Here’s how I would consider the neighbourhoods I visited for this post:

Generally safe, but take more caution at night: Ipanema, Leblon, Copacabana

Generally safe during the day, avoid at night: Cosme Velho, Laranjeiras, Santa Teresa, touristy parts of Centro

Take a little more caution during the day, avoid at night: Vidigal, Saúde, Gamboa, and Centro on the weekends when businesses are closed.

DRESS LIKE THE LOCALS

Brazilians are a fashionable bunch and love to dress well, with bright colourful clothing and tropical vibes. One thing you’ll notice however is the lack of luxury goods worn by the Rio locals.

In Rio, diamond rings and gold watches make way for bold local jewellery, often made from indigenous seeds or other natural materials. Designer handbags are put away and cross-body bags are taken out instead.

To spell it out simply, keep the brands at home. Rio just isn’t the place to put your Balenciaga sneakers, Gucci belts and Chanel sunglasses on display, and outside of Copacabana Palace and Leblon’s top restaurants, you’re unlikely to see the locals in these type of brands either.

A word special word on Apple Watches - these are very expensive to buy in Brazil due to heavy import taxes, so they can attract unwanted attention. Reconsider their use in Rio.