Thanks to a diverse population resulting from former immigrants from the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, and slaves from western Africa, dining out in Rio de Janeiro is a fun mix of flavors and traditions. Rio de Janeiro has a huge number of restaurants of all types, from cheap fast food joints to mid-priced buffets and elegant, expensive options to please any foodie.
For Steak: Marius
For meat lovers, this churrascaria overlooking Leme Beach offers more than 30 different grilled meat dishes. There is also a superb salad bar with colorful, tasty vegetable combinations as well as a great selection of fish. Right next door is Marius Crustáceos, a seafood palace. Note that Marius is always crowded, so reservations are a good idea.
For Barbecued Meats: Porcão
Choose from many different cuts of beef, pork, mutton, and chicken served on spits directly at your table at this Ipanema barbecue restaurant popular with celebrities. Seafood and salads are also offered.
For Seafood: Satyricon
This Ipanema restaurant is famous for its superb seafood grilled and served with memorable sauces. Beware of the couvert—excellent, but almost a meal by itself. The wine list is good, the tiramisu is one of the best around, and on Saturdays, there is a seafood buffet. The restaurant is large, pleasant, and always full, and is one of the preferred places of artists, businessmen, and politicians. Valet parking is provided.
For Traditional Cuisine: Cafe Lamas
Presidents, writers, actors, poets have dined here since 1874. The decor and menu are simple and traditional, with steaks and seafood most popular.
For International Flair: Cipriani
Part of the Belmond Copacabana Palace Hotel, the restaurant has a high ceiling, crystal chandeliers, and candlelight that provides a romantic touch with cosmopolitan dining.
For Tropical Asian: Zazá Bistrô Tropical
A block from Ipanema beach, the bistro mixes Thai, tropics and international cuisine for a mysterious, romantic effect.
For Italian: Quadrifoglio
With an excellent menu and wine list, this small restaurant in the Jardim Botânico district is a great choice for a romantic evening.
