Brazil is a culinary treasure trove where eclectic cultural influences meet an abundance of native ingredients. From the sophisticated Michelin-starred kitchens of São Paulo to the bohemian, scenic terraces of Rio de Janeiro, the country offers a diverse gastronomic landscape that celebrates both tradition and contemporary innovation.
Whether you are seeking the classic experience of a traditional Brazilian steakhouse or the refined fusion of French techniques with Amazonian flavors, this guide highlights the must-visit establishments that define the very best of Brazil's high-end dining scene.
Sao Paolo
D.O.M
Bar, Restaurant, Contemporary, Fusion, Brazilian, Vegetarian
You can’t go wrong with a two-Michelin-star restaurant when it gets to quality cuisine. D.O.M is in São Paulo and is led by world renowned chef, Alex Atala. The key to the restaurant’s appeal is the local touch, shunning the usual exclusive ingredients of caviar and truffle sauce, Atala seeks out food native to Brazil, in particular drawing from the Amazon’s ample supply of incredible food products. Expect unusual pairings, superb wine, sublime service, and dedicated waiters at this upscale establishment.
Mani
Restaurant, Brazilian, South American, Contemporary
Being the financial hub and the largest city in Brazil, it’s unsurprising that São Paulo has some of the country’s finest restaurants. Mani is one of them, with its original and creative menu that embraces contemporary innovation and brings out the best in local, native ingredients. Try the taster menu paired with wine, while the waiters expertly reel off flavorsome recommendations. Be sure to make a reservation, this restaurant fills up quickly!
Fogo de Chão
Brazilian, Steakhouse
Fogo de Chão in Sao Paolo has come to represent the classic Brazilian barbeque, and offers a unique dining experience that allows guests to sample the best of Brazilian meat. Waiters, glide through the restaurant carrying huge skewers of meat, stopping at each table to offer the various food choices to diners. Meat options range from beef to the classic picanha cut, to chicken, pork, lamb, and chicken hearts, the latter a Brazilian delicacy. There is also an ample salad and pasta bar to accompany the all-you-can-eat service.
A Figueira Rubaiyat
Restaurant, Mediterranean, Seafood
It’s the décor that is the first impacting aspect of this Sao Paolo dining experience. Built around a large, ancient fig tree, the restaurant continues that natural vibe with a sweeping wooden terrace and wooden furniture, creating an Amazon-esque scene. Yet the décor doesn’t take away from the delicious flavors of the restaurant’s cuisine, which serves hearty feijoada, tender steaks, and fresh seafood.
Rio De Janeiro
Olympe
French, Brazilian
The nearby serene lake Lagoa in Rio de Janeiro sets the scene for this luxurious restaurant. The chefs expertly mix French classics with Brazilian native ingredients to create sublime dishes with explosive flavor combinations. Highlights on the menu include duck magret with passion fruit, and the quail with onion and raisin manioc farofa. Try the three- or four-course menu to try a wider range of its offerings, and rely on the waiters’ expert knowledge of wine pairings.
Aprazível
Contemporary, Brazilian
Wooden decking, breath-taking views, and the bohemian vibe of Santa Teresa in Rio de Janeiro, create a relaxing atmosphere for a sublime dining experience at this Brazilian restaurant in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. The food is all home-made and draws from locally-produced ingredients with the occasional unusual yet wonderful addition such as duck, goat, and lamb. Try the caipirinhas that use locally-made cachaca for a smooth, lifting drink.
La Madre Ristorante
Brazilian, Seafood
Located in the north of the country in Belem, La Madre Ristorante is a French-inspired restaurant that makes the most of local, Amazonian ingredients. One of the main highlights on the menu is the prawns which are fresh and complemented with great food pairings. The steak is another accomplished option and comes served with an unusual yet delicious banana farofa.
