Best Rio de Janeiro Restaurants: Botecos, Samba & More

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Rio de Janeiro is such an underrated food destination. From Brazilian barbecue to traditional dishes like feijoada and moqueca (feijoada is a stew of beans and different cuts of meat, while moqueca is a seafood stew), there’s so much to explore.

After six trips to Brazil, I’ve rounded up the best restaurants in Rio de Janeiro, from classic botecos to spots with live samba, all organized by neighborhood so you can easily fit them into each day’s plans.

You’ll find a mix of upscale, acclaimed restaurants, spots with live samba music, and cozy botecos, which are pretty much like dive bars and an essential Rio experience.

Woman sits at beach restaurant with plates of food in Rio de Janeiro

Best restaurants in Copacabana

Copacabana is one of Rio’s most famous neighborhoods, for a reason! Apart from the iconic beach, it’s a fun neighborhood to hang out in, thanks to its abundant food and bar scene. No trip to Rio is complete without some time in Copacabana.

Adega Pérola

Adega Pérola has been around since 1957, and has become a Rio mainstay for Spanish and Portuguese tapas, plus other seafood and meat dishes.

🍹 Order: queijo coalho, azeitunas espanhola, bolinho de bacalhau | Price: Petiscos, or snacks, mostly range from R$25 to R $65 per-person | Closed: Sundays | Reservations: no

🥥 Learn more about Brazilian foods and drinks to try in Rio in this guide!

Churrascaria Palace

A Brazilian steakhouse is a must at some point during your trip to Rio, especially to try picanha, a specific cut of meat often served with typical Brazilian sides like white rice, black beans, and farofa. And Churrascaria Palace is considered one of the best, dating back to 1951, and in its current location near the iconic Copacabana Palace hotel since the ’60s.

During their all-you-can-eat barbecue, they offer 40 different types of meat, and the price also includes a salad bar.

🥩 Try: picanha, rib roast | Price: R$278 per adult, R$139 for kids 12 and under | Reservations: Yes

Restaurante Basha

Believe it or not Rio has some really good Middle Eastern restaurants, and Restaurante Basha is a delicious option serving Lebanese cuisine. They also are super vegetarian-friendly.

🥗 Order: Kibe na coalhada, prata de shawarma | Price: most dishes are around R$40 to R$80 per-person | Reservations: No

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The mountains behind the waves at Prainha Beach in Rio de Janeiro at sunset.

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Best restaurants in Leblon

Leblon is among Rio’s fanciest neighborhoods and is another must during your trip to Rio. Here are some popular spots:

Sushi Leblon

Rio actually has a ton of great Japanese restaurants these days, but one of its oldest is Sushi Leblon. They’ve been around since the ’80s, making it among the first in the South Zone region. Nowadays, it’s recommended in the Michelin Guide, and still has a reputation as one of the city’s best spots for sashimi, sushi, and other fresh Japanese seafood dishes.

Many menu options also have a creative spin, like the tuna tartare, which comes with free-range egg yolk, black roe, and chives.

🍣 Order: tuna tartare, carpaccio França, truffled swordfish | Price: 2-piece sushi rolls are R$27-R$90, chef’s sushi and sashimi selection is R$235 | Reservations: yes

Boteco Rainha

Boteco Rainha is a delicious seafood spot with a really cute, Portuguese-inspired ambiance. I had the most amazing octopus of my life there on my last trip to Rio!

🐟 Order: Punheta de Bacalhau, octopus| Price: Small plates are R$20-R$60, entrees range from R$40-R$285 (many are 2-person portions) | Reservations: yes

A bowl with an octopus dish in Rio de Janeiro. — *Octopus and bacalhau (dried, salted codfish) from Boteco Rainha in Leblon*.

Bacalhau (cod) in olive oil, and a basket of bread from Boteco Rainha in Leblon, Rio de Janeiro. — *Octopus and bacalhau (dried, salted codfish) from Boteco Rainha in Leblon*.

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Best restaurants in Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is an amazing spot to immerse yourself more into Brazilian culture — and first and foremost, through the food. The neighborhood is particularly renowned for classic dishes like feijoada, a rich bean and meat stew that’s the country’s national dish.

While there are sooo many great places (seriously, I’m still working through my list of places to try), here are some to get you started:

Bar Simplesmente

Bar Simplesmente is a traditional bar/restaurant with a locally-loved food menu, and an unbeatable vibe.

I came here during a trip to Rio a couple of years ago, and they serve such a delicious feijoada, with all the accompaniments (collard greens, rice, farofa, and orange slices). They’re also really loved for their laid-back, fun atmosphere, and they have live samba on Wednesday nights, as well as DJ sets and other events.

🍕 Order: Feijoada, dried beef with cassava, pizza | Price: R$40-90ish per person | Good for: Live music | Closed: Tuesday | Reservations: No

the Brazilian food feijoada with rice and collard greens from Bar Simplesmente in Rio de Janeiro. — *Feijoada from Bar Simplesmente (left) and Santa Teresa*.

Tess stands in Parque das Ruinas in Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro. Behind her, is a view of the mountains and ocean on a cloudy day. — *Feijoada from Bar Simplesmente (left) and Santa Teresa*.

Casa Nossa

I came here on my last visit to Santa Teresa — it’s a super cute location, with a beautiful garden-style outdoor space, and charming blue and white architecture.

They also have live music sometimes. I loved my feijoada — you can get individual portions, or larger ones to share, which made the most sense for our group, price-wise.

Just note that there are stairs to reach the outdoor space.

🍺 Order: feijoada, ceviche | Price: R$50-100 per-person | Closed: Thursday | Reservations: Yes

Inside Casa Nossa, a restaurant in Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro. On the rooftop, you can see tables, many plants, and plants painted on the white wall of the restaurant. — *Casa Nossa*

Feijoada, white rice, orange slices, farofa, and collard greens, in Casa Nossa, in Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro. — *Casa Nossa*

Aprazível

This is a super popular restaurant that I haven’t made it to yet, but has been on my list forever! Aprazível is in the Michelin Guide, and just looks all-around gorgeous, thanks to its tropical tree house ambiance and location up in the hills, offering you a quintessential view of Rio down below.

As for its food, it showcases different regions of Brazil, with a special emphasis on the state of Minas Gerais, where their chef is from. It’s definitely a pricier spot, but its consistently high reviews say it’s worth it. They’re also vegetarian and vegan-friendly, and use mostly organic and/or biodynamic ingredients.

🥘 Order: Ceviche in Tucupi, country-style Minas Gerais chicken stew | Price: R$200+ | Closed: Monday | Reservations: Yes

Café do Alto

Although I love the food in Rio, I think some of the best Brazilian food comes from the Northeast region. This region includes cities like Salvador and Recife, who we have to thank for dishes like moqueca, a flavorful seafood stew made with coconut milk and palm oil, and tapioca, which is like a spongier, cassava-based version of a crepe.

Those are the kinds of dishes that you’ll find at Café do Alto, a casual, and affordable Northeastern restaurant.

They serve an all-you-can-eat brunch Wednesdays to Sundays alongside their a la carte breakfast and lunch menu. Notably, they have lots of vegan options, plus a surprisingly extensive beer menu.

Just keep in mind that they close fairly early – 4 p.m. or 5 p.m.

🍳 Order: bobo de camarão, tapioca, escondidinho (a Brazilian casserole) with dried beef | Price: All-you-can-eat brunch is R$100 (plus 10% service charge); R$50 for kids 10 and under; a la carte items R$30 to R$70. | Good for: Breakfast | Closed: Tuesday | Reservations: Yes

Bobó de camarão, a Brazilian fish stew. — *From left: bobó de camarão, a caipirinha, and moqueca*, *from various locations in Brazil.*

A caiprinha on a green table with a water bottle and glass behind it in Salvador, Brazil — *From left: bobó de camarão, a caipirinha, and moqueca*, *from various locations in Brazil.*

Best restaurants in Ipanema

Ipanema is another gorgeous and rightfully iconic beach neighborhood. Regardless of whether you have a couple days, a week, or longer in Rio, it’s somewhere you have to visit! It’s super walkable, beautiful, and has lots of restaurants and bars to check out. Here are some highlights:

Etta Bar

Etta Bar has a range of options from pizzas, salads, sandwiches, steaks, and more. They’re especially known for having live music, like samba and jazz, and for having great drinks and appetizers. I really like the ambiance here! I was desperate for vegetables so I stuck with a salad during my visit, but I’m definitely trying one of their pastas or burgers next time.

🍔 Order: Rigatoni with pork sausage ragu, ClassiquÊtta burger | Price: about R$50-95 per person | Good for: Live music | Reservations: No

A view of Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro — *Ipanema.*

Boteco Belmonte

A traditional boteco, or “root bar” is a quintessential experience you have to have in Rio, and Boteco Belmonte is a solid option. There are a few different locations, but its Ipanema spot is particularly beloved thanks to its ocean view. It is super popular, so know that there may be a wait if you visit during the weekend.

The menu features lots of “petiscos,” or typical bar snacks, and shared plates, plus a range of meat and seafood options, and a small selection of vegetarian dishes.

Also note that if you go up to the rooftop when there’s a DJ, there will be an extra R$35 charge (it’s pretty common in Brazil for there to be an extra charge when there’s live music).

🍹 Order: pasteis (similar to empanadas), bolinhos (a savory, ball-shaped fritter), tempura shrimp with garlic sauce | Price: about R$50-100 per person | Good for: Beach views, DJ | Reservations: Only for groups of 10+ people

Zazá Bistrô Tropical

Located in a cute 100-year-old mansion, Zazá Bistrô Tropical is a solid spot for a fun night out, thanks to its charming vibes and creative menu. Dishes are a modern spin on classic Brazilian ingredients and dishes.

They also have a separate vegan/vegetarian menu, and are generally known for being a good place to go for other dietary restrictions as well.

Inside, you’ll find a colorful and warm atmosphere. Their upstairs floor is extra cozy, with low tables and cushions.

🍝 Order: sweet potato gnocchi with mushrooms, grilled octopus, ceviche | Price: most dishes are R$70 – R$100 per person | Reservations: Yes

T.T. Burger Arpoador

T.T. Burger Arpoador has been around since 2013, and I’ve come here several times over the years, and they’re super reliable when you’re looking for something quick, casual, and satisfying. You can also find a few other locations around Rio and Brazil.

Their burger menu has just a handful of options — there’s also a vegetarian burger, as well as a smash burger option.

🍔 Order: T.T. burger | Price: R$39-69 | Good for: Quick, affordable meal | Reservations: No

Gringo Cafe

If you’re feeling homesick during your trip (no judgment), head to Gringo Cafe for a classic American breakfast. I wouldn’t say it’s exactly like home, but it was definitely the closest I’ve had while in Rio.

You’ll find a range of classic diner options, including pancakes, waffles, French toast, and egg dishes, alongside burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes. I think the prices are a little over-inflated for the value, but it’s the best option for this sort of restaurant.

🥞 Order: Veggie and cheese scramble with hashbrowns | Price: around R$40-80 per person | Good for: Breakfast | Reservations: No, and expect a bit of a wait

A restaurant with tables and red chairs is on the bottom floor of a yellow building. The restaurant is open, Flowers line the balcony on the upper floor, and all the windows are open in Centro, Rio de Janeiro. — *Centro.*

Tess, wearing a black skirt and a denim jacket stands in front of the Theatro Municipal in Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The building has many columns and decadent ornaments. — *Centro.*

Where to eat in Centro

I absolutely love Centro, which is Rio’s historic downtown neighborhood. It’s filled with interesting colonial-era architecture, tons of street art, museums, and historic sites, not to mention plenty of beloved food spots and samba bars.

🚨 While I think Centro is super worth visiting, just note that it’s an area you’ll want to be especially careful in. Keep your phone put away when you don’t need it, don’t walk around alone at night, and skip any gold jewelry.

Check out my Rio safety guide for more on this.

Confeitaria Colombo

Confeitaria Colombo is worth a visit even if you don’t buy anything!

It’s been around since 1894, making it one of Rio’s most iconic historic sites. Over the years, it’s hosted all sorts of celebrities, literary figures, politicians, and even royalty.

The prices, unfortunately are over-inflated, and I would skip getting a whole meal. But, here it’s really about the experience of being inside such a storied and beautiful cafe. So I would at least pop in to get a coffee or a little pastry.

🍰 Order: Brigadeiro (a chocolate truffle) or pastel de belém (Portuguese egg tart) | Price: Desserts are mostly R$15 to R$60. | Closed: Sunday | Reservations: Yes

Casa Porto

Located inside Centro, within Rio’s Little Africa neighborhood, also known as Saúde, this is where to come if you want a super lively, local atmosphere. Casa Porto overlooks a historic square with a deep samba history, and you can often hear music inside the restaurant.

While the atmosphere is the main appeal here, it’s also a fun place to go for some drinks and petiscos (traditional finger foods, which are often fried, and staples of Rio’s boteco culture).

🍻 Order: Coxinha de Pernil (a fried pastry with pork)| Price: around R$60 to 80 | Closed: Monday | Reservations: Yes

The view of Saúde, or Little Africa, from Casa Porto in Rio de Janeiro at night. The square is lit up, and many people are seated in the square, surrounded by historic buildings. — *The view from Casa Porto (left)*, *the bay (center) and the Rio Museum in Saúde.*

The view of the bay and a square inside the Port Zone, or Rio de Janeiro's Saúde neighborhood, from above. — *The view from Casa Porto (left)*, *the bay (center) and the Rio Museum in Saúde.*

Café Cultural Sacrilégio

Café Cultural Sacrilégio is an iconic bar in Lapa, Rio’s biggest nightlife neighborhood. It’s been around since 2001. The original building is over a century old and was once frequented by Carmen Miranda. And today, it’s a beloved nightlife spot for live samba music and dancing.

The food here is nothing out of the ordinary — lots of classic Rio bar food — but they do it well, it’s super affordable, and it’s one of the best places to experience an authentic local atmosphere. I came here back during my very first trip to Rio a few years ago, and it’s still one of my favorites years later.

Just note that there is usually a R$15 entrance fee.

🎶 Order: The Sacrilégio, which comes with three classic bar snacks (fried beef, fried cassava, fried chicken) | Price: usually around R$20-40 per snack | Good for: Live samba | Closed: Sunday and Monday | Reservations: no

Casa Cavé

The oldest pastry shop in Rio, open since 1860. It’s smaller and more unassuming than Confeitaria Colombo, but still super charming. They have a simple breakfast and lunch menu, alongside an extensive dessert menu.

Note that they don’t accept credit cards, so bring cash!

🥐 Order: Pastel de Belém, a Portuguese egg tart | Price: pastries are mostly R$9-R$20 | Good for: Baked goods | Closed: Sunday | Reservations: no

Where to eat in Urca

This super cute neighborhood escapes so many tourists’ radars, but I think it’s one of Rio’s most charming. It’s where you’ll find Sugarloaf Mountain, as well as one of my favorite Rio sunset spots, Mureta da Urca, a short wall that overlooks the bay.

There are a few bars right around here, so it’s common to pick up some drinks and snacks and sit along the wall.

Sunset over the water from Mureta da Urca in Rio de Janeiro, near Bar da Urca. — *Mureta da Urca, including drinks from Bar Urca*

Bar Urca

Among the numerous options around here, this is a Rio de Janeiro staple. It’s been around since 1939 — that’s how much of a staple I mean.

(If you want an actual meal, you’ll probably want to eat inside. Its first floor is more casual, like a classic boteco, but its upper floor is more of a nicer sit-down restaurant vibe.)

🍻 Order: Pastel, shrimp empada, bolinhos de bacalhau (cod fritters) | Price: Petiscos are mostly R$15-R$60. Entrees for 2-3 people are R$115+. | Good for: Snacks with a view and local vibe | Reservations: no

Where to eat in Jardim Botânico

This gorgeous neighborhood is where you’ll find Parque Lage, a public park and historic mansion, and Rio’s botanical garden (also called Jardim Botânico). It’s a beautiful area to walk around in, with lots of tree-lined streets and cute shops and eateries.

Jóia Carioca

I came here for a casual lunch during my last trip to Rio, after some time at Parque Lage (one of my favorite places in the city). They serve lots of classic Brazilian sandwiches and plates for reasonable prices (with dishes for two people), in a relaxed atmosphere.

🍻 Order: Pizza or a sandwich | Price: R$40 to R$80 per-person. | Good for: Casual lunch | Reservations: no

Planning your Rio trip

Rio is one of my favorite places in Brazil, and visiting some of its many restaurants and bars is one of the best ways to experience Carioca culture. I hope you have the best time!

More restaurant recommendations, an in-depth food guide, plus how to experience every side of Rio de Janeiro culture, from its music and nightlife to its history, and art, are all inside of my ebook, “A Cultural Guide to Rio de Janeiro.”

It’s filled with all the knowledge I’ve learned after years of visiting Rio, from cultural nuances to be aware of to language basics and beach etiquette.