Global flavors: Exploring the food in Rio de Janeiro

Get ready, foodies! The food in Rio de Janeiro is about to blow your taste buds away. Whether you’re exploring street food or fine dining, Rio is the perfect destination for a culinary adventure. In this guide, we’re sharing must-try dishes, cocktails, restaurants, and food-centric events.

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Brazilian culinary favorites

Brazilian cuisine? It’s bold, tropical, and downright delicious! It’s also influenced by several different cultures – Portuguese, African, and Indigenous. One bite, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled through the country’s history.

If you’re in Rio, you can’t miss feijoada, the national dish of Brazil.

• This hearty black bean stew, traditionally served with pork, rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and orange slices, is more than a meal – it’s a communal experience. Feijoada is often enjoyed at family gatherings or shared with friends.

Another must-try is coxinha — a deep-fried dough filled with shredded chicken.

• It’s Brazil’s ultimate comfort food, perfect for snacking at any time of the day.

And then there’s the famous açaí bowls.

• Whether eaten for breakfast or as a post-beach refresher, this purple superfood from the Amazon, blended with fruits and granola, is both delicious and energizing.

Still wondering what to eat in Rio de Janeiro? Be sure to experience fresh, natural ingredients like cassava and coconut. And don’t miss your chance for fresh seafood. Dishes here often draw from nature’s bounty to create exciting flavor combinations.

Traditional Rio de Janeiro food

When in Rio, you have to experience classic Brazilian flavors. Authentic flavors abound at the local eateries. From hole-in-the-wall spots to long-standing family-run establishments, you’ll get a taste of Brazil’s heart and soul.

One dish you should absolutely try is moqueca, a fish stew simmered in coconut milk, palm oil, and tomatoes, served in a clay pot with rice.

• This dish originates from the northeast of Brazil but has made its way into Rio’s food scene, where it’s become a local favorite.

Don’t leave without sampling the gooey goodness of pão de queijo, Brazil’s famous cheese bread.

• Made with tapioca flour, these little balls are gluten-free, chewy on the inside, and crispy on the outside—a perfect snack.

Looking for recommendations? Head to Casa da Feijoada in Ipanema or check out Bar Urca for classic Brazilian comfort food served with one of the best views of the bay. Both are must-visit spots for anyone wanting to dive deep into Brazilian culinary tradition.

Street food fare

For food lovers, Rio’s bustling streets are a paradise. Street food vendors line the beaches, markets, and safest neighborhoods in Rio, offering up quick bites that pack a punch. Looking for something authentic, delicious, and affordable? It’ll be all around you.

You’ll find the mouth-watering acarajé — a popular Afro-Brazilian dish.

• It’s made from deep-fried black-eyed pea dough filled with shrimp, onions, and a spicy sauce. 

And who can resist pastéis?

• These savory, deep-fried pastries are filled with anything from cheese to shrimp or ground beef. They’re the perfect on-the-go snack, especially when you’re walking around the city or lounging on the beach.

Wondering where to find these eats? Hit up the Feira de São Cristóvão, a bustling market dedicated to food and handmade crafts. Or make your way to Copacabana and try some fresh street food from one of the many beachside stalls. 

Fusion & contemporary cuisine

Rio’s food scene isn’t just about tradition. It’s also embracing new, exciting culinary trends. The city’s innovative chefs are mixing Brazilian flavors with global influences to create unique dishes that push the boundaries of what Brazilian food can be.

One of the leaders in this culinary revolution is Aprazível. Here, you’ll discover contemporary Brazilian cuisine as well as sophisticated dishes inspired by local comfort food. 

Another standout is Lasai, which offers a farm-to-table dining experience, blending seasonal local ingredients with international inspirations.

These contemporary eateries are introducing Rio to a whole new world of possibilities, but they still pay homage to the flavors and traditions that make Brazilian cuisine so special.

Beachside bites

In Rio, life revolves around the beach. Whether you’re watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand or enjoying fresh seafood right by the ocean, it’s one of the best ways to experience Rio’s food culture.

Nothing beats sipping a caipirinha. 

• Like our list of city-inspired drinks, this is Brazil’s iconic cocktail made from cachaça, sugar, and lime. Drink it while relaxing on the golden sands of Ipanema or Copacabana. Or pair it with grilled prawns or fried fish for a perfect beachside meal.

For the best beach dining experience, grab a sandwich at Barraca do Uruguai on Barra da Tijuca Beach or grab a seat at Joaquina, where open-air dining and updated Brazilian fare can be found right by Copacabana Beach.

Food festivals & events

We’ll just say it. Rio knows how to throw a party. Food in Rio de Janeiro and celebrations go hand in hand here, and the city hosts culinary events year-round that draw crowds from all over the country and beyond.

One event you won’t want to miss is Comida di Buteco, a competition where local bars showcase their best bar snacks, or petiscos. It’s a fantastic way to sample a variety of dishes and flavors while hopping from bar to bar. 

If you’re visiting Rio during carnival season, you’ll also find plenty of pop-up food stalls and local markets showcasing traditional Brazilian eats. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture, food, and lively atmosphere.

Have appetite, will travel

Rio’s food scene is a wild ride of flavors. Traditional, street, fusion, beachside — it’s all here, and it’s all delicious. No matter where you choose to eat and what dishes you want to try, Rio is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

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