In Rio de Janeiro, the food is a vibrant mix of flavors and influences from Portuguese, African, Italian and indigenous cuisines. Food is something that brings people together in Brazil, and with Rio being one of the biggest melting pot cities the variety and vast number of dining options in Rio goes on and on. I could make this list for days, talking about types of dishes and different restaurants, but since the people come here for restaurant recommendations that's where I want to start. But bonus, these recommendations are the best places to go to get the best dishes Rio and Brazil has to offer. If you want more on classic Brazilian food check out my foodie guide; A taste of Brazil
If anything find restaurants that are labeled churrascarias these offer classic meat dishes of brazil, but as promised here are the top recommendations you have to check out while in Rio de Janeiro
There is no secret why this restaurant is on the list. Brazil was one of the first to start the boom of açai. As an American that can't get away from the acai craze in the US and who has had it in Australia, Germany, France and other countries in South America, Brazil ALWAYS wins the best Açai I've ever tried. Casa do Açai has the best açai I’ve had in Brazil. With the combination of fresh fruits and their lack of Guaraná syrup (an added sugar) the balance of flavors and creaminess of their bowls is delicious. It’s an Oasis of calm and humble ambiance in the center of the rowdiness of Copacabana which makes this place even more desirable for a quick break before going back to this lively area in Rio.
Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30am- 9pm I Sat: 8:30am-8:pm I Sunday 11am-7pm
This rustic pizzeria is run by Italian immigrants living in Rio. If you love pizza (or don’t) you need to check out this restaurant. From homemade dough to fresh ingredients and herbs, each pizza is the best of the best. Everyone who has eaten here (not counting dumb outliers) has said this is some of the best pizza they’ve ever had and has been recommended to me by many locals.
Hours
Sun-Thurs 11:30am-11pm I Fri-Sat 11:30am-12am
Sitting atop the Praia Shopping mall, this classy Brazilian bar and restaurant overlooks the beautiful beach of Botafogo and sugarloaf mountain. You all should know that I seek out the best rooftop places wherever I go and this is it. With some of the best classic brazilian dishes, snacks, drinks and desserts if you don't go anywhere else go here. You will get a taste of classic Brazilian food with the best views of the city all in one.
Hours
Everyday 11:30 AM–12 AM
This restaurant on the beach is made up of mostly glass windows providing a beautiful view of the beach no matter where you sit. The restaurant is always packed and for good reason. If you want a true taste of Brazilian bar food and drinks stop here and have some delicious pastel, empadão and a caipirinha.
Hours
Everyday 11am-2am
One of the most popular steakhouses in the city, Fogo de Chao offers all-you-can eat meat options with some of the most delicious sides. This is a place you go with a lot of friends and order to share.
Hours
Everyday 12 PM- 11:30 PM
Known for having a variety of different dishes, this restaurant offers some of the best meats, seafood, italian dishes, and desserts. The portions are very good, and the creativity of each dish can't be beat. Not only is the food good but they hand craft their own beers and have some one of the best selections of being in Rio. To top it all off the patio view of the ocean and sugarloaf mountain is stunning especially at dusk.
Hours
Everyday 11:30am-12am
This is a beautiful high end steak house with some of the best made brazilian meats. People always get scared with the high end label but this restaurant is actually very affordable for the quality they deliver.
Average price (per person) R$70-85
Hours
Everyday 12pm-12am
Lastly get a to-go Açai or frozen treat at one of the many Oakberry Açai stands in the city. Açai originated in Brazil and in my opinion (and most other peoples) has the best, most delicious açai anywhere in the world. This little stand does not disappoint and you will love having a cool snack to walk around exploring with.
Those are my top recommendations to start with. If you want more recommendations in specific areas, check out my guide: Life's a Beach in Rio de Janeiro, where you will read all about Rio by each neighborhood and the best restaurants in those areas.
One iconic dish is feijoada, a hearty stew made with black beans, pork, and beef. Another popular street food is the beloved pastel, a fried pastry filled with a variety of savory ingredients like cheese, meat, or shrimp. Seafood also plays a prominent role in Rio's culinary scene, with dishes like moqueca, a fish stew cooked in coconut milk and palm oil, and shrimp bobó, a creamy stew made with shrimp and cassava. The vibrant colors and diverse flavors of Rio's food reflect the city's rich cultural heritage and make it a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Greer Ransom | Travel Advisor
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