Hungry? Here Are a Few Ways to Explore RIO’s Exquisite Food Scene.
Beyond the Churrascaria
RIO
Rio’s food scene is bananas. Everyone knows the Churrascaria, and if you don’t, where have you been? It’s literally huge chunks of succulent meat slow-roasted in a barbeque, then ever-so-delicately sliced onto your plate by a real-life Gaucho. These restaurants are normally all-you-can-eat, where you can choose from sizzling steaks, poultry, fish, and lamb, plus an array of hot and cold side dishes. That’s how they get you. You fill up on the sides and leave no room for the meat. The problem is the sides are unavoidable. They’re way too delicious. So you have to be smart. Whatever you do, don’t pass up on Rio’s most celebrated side, the Pao de Qeuijo (cheese bread.) It will knock your socks off. Try to visit one or two over the course of your trip. Just don’t make plans right after dinner unless you’re an expert at navigating through food comas.
I’d been pumped about Rio’s rainforest backdrop, its beaches, and rich culture. The diversity of Rio’s food scene was a pleasant surprise that put my visit over the top. Rio’s seen a wave of gastronomic expertise having an impact on everything from fine dining to its famous street food. For familiar food in an incredible setting, check out the Marine Resto at the Fairmont for food. Situated on Av. Atlântica overlooking Copacabana Beach. The hotel is simply beautiful with an elegant design and sheak aesthetics. Foodwise, the fresh pasta or seafood is light and delicious. If you’re looking for a break from the meat and love a lot of flavor hit up Teva, a vegan hotspot in Ipanema. Even the sushi is on point. I was able to squeeze in Gurume and Hachiko. Both were solid options amidst plenty of good sushi restaurants. For a tranquil lunch setting close to the Botanic Gardens, hit up Casa Camolese, Ella Pizzaria or Filé de Ouro. If you’re by the Lapa Steps hit Explorer Bar for craft cocktails in a tourist-friendly setting. Whatever the case may be, get out and explore the local cuisine, and don’t forget to hit up the food stalls along the beach. Click here for recommendations.
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Okay, let’s talk drinks. There’s nothing better than basking in the sun getting loose with a few ice-cold beers listening to the waves lap up on the beach. Brazil’s local beer is Bohemia. Throwing one back always transports me to that scene in Shawshank Redemption when the crew finished tarring the roof. Morgan Freeman’s booming voice majestically describes the moment when the convicts sit in the sun “drinking icey cold Bohemia style beer.” I’m not even in jail yet I feel an overwhelming sense of joy and freedom just thinking about it.
Brazil’s national drink is the Caipirinha. Its recipe is simple and effective. Cachaça, lime, sugar, ice, and a glass. Cachaça is a Brazilian-made liquor derived from distilling sugar cane juice. It resembles rum, and interestingly enough, anything softer or stronger is considered brandy. Caipirinhas are exquisitely refreshing. And watch out. A few of these on the beach and you are set.
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Rio’s food scene continues to trend for its creativity. There’s nothing better than soaking up the sun over good seafood and a couple of beers during the day, add on a caipirinha or two and steaks at night and you’ll have a recipe fit for royalty. Check out how we rank RIO against some of the other top cities in the world here.
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