Brazilian Food Tour (Rio de Janeiro) – because of Brazil’s multi-ethnic roots (from Portugal, West Africa, the Amazon, and beyond), the country has a unique cuisine, due not only to the locals, but some of the fruits & vegetables produced in the country (some of which can’t be found elsewhere). This food tour gives first-time […]
The View (Alameda Santos 981, Jardim Paulista, São Paulo) – this rooftop bar & restaurant is located on the top floor of the Transamérica Hotel, only one block from the busy Paulista Avenue. As the name suggests, the vista is the biggest selling point. Being situated in the highest region of the city, diners can […]
Bar Veloso (Rua Conceição Veloso 54, Vila Mariana, São Paulo): First-time visitors to São Paulo are likely to witness the celebration of favorite Brazilian drinks, such as the caipirinha (which is served here in 20 fruit combinations, including cashews with lemon, jabuticaba, tangerine with peppers, and three lemons). Plus, Brahma beer—which is easy on the […]
Vento Haragano (Av. Rebouças 1001, Jardins, São Paulo): One of the best churrascarias in São Paulo is the impressive Vento Haragano in Jardins. As a traditional gaucho-style churrascaria, Vento Haragano is decorated in the typical style of classic southern Brazilian steakhouses, and the waitstaff wear traditional uniforms.The variety of meats and wines, along with the […]
Garota de Ipanema (Rua Vinicius de Moraes 49, Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro) – this bar attracts a lot of tourists, since this was the one-time watering hole for the songwriters of the famed “Girl from Ipanema” Bossa Nova song (Tom Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes). Some of the locals that do show up there come […]
Emporio 37 (Rua Maria Quiteria, Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro) – reputed to be the oldest rock-themed bar in Rio, Emporio is popular simply because it’s opened after-hours (which explains why there isn’t a crowd until after 1:00 am). There are two dance floors for Brazilian and international rock music, which is ideal for the expat […]
Carioca da Gema (Av. Mem de Sá, Centro, Rio de Janeiro) — since the year 2000, this popular hangout spot offers the best of the Brazilian popular music (including Samba and Choro). With the best artists and musicians; the coldest beer, the best samba, and a large audience around the local carioca culture, this venue […]
Bar Semente (Rua Evaristo da Veiga 149, Centro, Rio de Janeiro): This nightclub features the best live forró music in the city both during the week and on the weekend, and dancing is a must. No matter what your skill level is, the crowd is patient and willing to help anyone who feels like hitting […]
Tordesilhas (Alameda Tietê 489, Jardins São Paulo) – this restaurant makes an effort to offer dishes typically found in various Brazilian states (even far-flung ones in the Amazon). With dishes from all over the country, from the rich and hearty traditions of Minas Gerais and the spicy and exciting seafood of the northeast, to the […]
Terraço Itália (Av. Ipiranga 344 – 41st Floor, Center, São Paulo) – for those who wish to have dinner with a panoramic view of the city, this is a great choice. Located on one of the top floors of the Itália office tower in downtown São Paulo, Terraço attracts a mix of well-heeled locals and […]