Below you will find a few restaurants in Rio de Janeiro we like and like to go back!
RESTAURANTS YOU SHOULD TRY IN RIO DE JANEIRO
We only listed our favorite restaurants, either because of the delicious food, pleasant service, great setting/decor/atmosphere and of course good value for money. In case you have any suggestions to add to the list please let us know!
For all restaurants listed it is definitely recommended you call or pass by to make a reservation, especially during Summer!
IPANEMA & LEBLON
Le Pule - google maps
Lovely small restaurant with excellent dishes (try the Octopus or the roasted chicken!) and a great young vibe & friendly service. Be prepared to wait in line.
Zaza Bistrot Tropical - google maps
Great cuisine inspired by Asian flavors and an innovative cocktail menu.
Carretão - google maps
Although the restaurant is often packed with tourists and groups, it's a classic one and a must-try when you stay in Ipanema and would like to experience a typical Brazilian steak house (called "churrascaria'). For a fixed price, you can eat as much meat as you like, also salads and other side dishes included. Also make sure to not have your plates filled with side dishes, better to leave space for the delicious meats that will come your way! Be aware that the drinks & desserts are not included in the fixed price.
L'Etoile - google maps
One of the top French restaurants in Rio located on the top floor of the Sheraton hotel with a magnificent view over the beaches of Ipanema & Leblon. This restaurant is an excellent choice when you are looking for a spot to celebrate a special occasion or just to dine in style. The food is sumptuous and exquisite, you will receive excellent advice on wine pairing and will be well taken care of by the staff.
BOTAFOGO
Fogo de Chão
Elegant churrascaria (steak house) with great food and amazing views over the bay.
SANTA TERESA
Aprazivel - google maps
A very special restaurant up the hill in Santa Teresa, offering excellent outdoor dining but also a great place for lunch. The food is absolutely delicious and the view is amazing, especially at sunset.
Téreze - google maps
Another very special restaurant which is a must-try and absolutely worth going up the hill in Santa Teresa! The tasteful and beautifully presented food, the special decor, the great service and the view all contribute to a memorable dining experience. Tip: go early and take your aperitif by the Pool lounge or the Bar dos Descasados, both of which are also part of the Santa Teresa hotel.
URCA
Julius Brasserie - google maps
A charming Dutch-owned brasserie at the foot of the Sugarloaf mountain, serving delicious food with a mix of contemporary Brazilian, French, Italian and Dutch influences. Choose between an excellent selection of meat (Black Angus beef, duck breast, Thai curry), various risottos, or the fresh fish of the day. Try the Dutch appeltaart for dessert, yummie!
BARRA DE TIJUCA (Ilha Primera)
Bar do Cicero - google maps
Great seafood restaurant always packed by locals and totally off the beaten track on one of the islands hidden in the concrete jungle of Barra de Tijuca. To get there, take an Uber until Shopping Barra Point/Unimed Av. Armando Lombardi 350 or take the metro until estação Jardim Oceânico. Take the little road that leads to the pier where you can take a 10 min water bus (balsa) and ask to let you out by Bar do Cicero. On weekends make sure to reserve a table as the place is always busy. An experience you will not forget!
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