Restaurant Guide for Business Travelers: Rio de Janeiro

Part 3:

Intro: Having lived in Brazil for more than two decades now, I've seen an incredible transformation in the local culinary scene in Rio. Although historically, Rio wasn’t as known for its gastronomic prowress like its cosmopolitan sibling, S?o Paulo, who sits just 45 minutes away via plane, Rio's local culinary scene has grown tremendously over the past two decades, and we're all here for it.

Dinner: Za?a Bistr? Tropical

In the vibrant streets of Ipanema, a district known for its beach-chic verve and flair, sits Zazá Bistr? – a culinary gem that has been redefining Rio de Janeiro's dining scene and that I've been frequenting since its inception in 1999. The vibe is laid-back luxe, the kind of place where you can kick back with friends or charm a date.

As the balmy Rio evening unfurls, Zazá Bistr? transforms into an oasis of warmth and elegance. The villa, perched on the corner of Rua Prudente de Morais and Joana Angelica, is a retreat from the city’s buzz which welcomes guests with softly lit candles and a terrace that beckons with its understated allure. Inside Zazá, the experience is two-fold: the first floor offers a vibrant bar scene and bistro tables that resonate with the heartbeat of the city, while the second floor invites diners into a Moroccan reverie, where shoes are optional and relaxation is mandatory.

Zazá isn’t merely a place to dine; it’s a destination for the senses. Each dish on the menu is a passport to global flavors, masterfully blended to create a fusion that’s as unique as it is delightful. Expertly uniting the exotic essences of Thai, Indian, and Moroccan cuisines with the zest of Brazil, Zazá presents a culinary tapestry that’s rich with diversity and taste.

While the seafood offerings are a nod to the restaurant’s coastal roots, it’s the Spicy Chicken Curry that truly captures the essence of Zazá’s adventurous spirit. This signature dish, a favorite of mine, is a symphony of flavors that sings with the boldness of spices and the subtlety of carefully selected, organic ingredients topped with fresh banana, Damascus and Cashews. At Zazá, 'organic' is a philosophy that's intricately woven into each menu item, ensuring that the conversation at the table is as vibrant and rich as the meal itself.

Cocktails? At Zazá's, the cocktail menu is a vibrant tableau of creativity and craftsmanship. Here, each drink is not just mixed but brought to life with the same care and passion that defines the bistro’s culinary offerings. It's a place where the classic Brazilian caipirinha is reimagined, where traditional recipes are infused with unexpected twists and exotic ingredients.

Take, for instance, the ginger caipirinha - a concoction that perfectly embodies Zazá's spirit of innovation. The zesty kick of ginger melds with the fresh tang of lime and the subtle sweetness of sugar cane liquor, creating a dance of flavors that's as refreshing as the Ipanema breeze.

The smoked New York sour is another masterpiece, a bold fusion of old and new. This cocktail takes the timeless sophistication of a whiskey sour and elevates it with a touch of theatrical smokiness and a crown of yuzu foam, replacing the traditional egg white. It's a drink that's both a tribute to the classics and a toast to the future, a testament to Zazá's ability to surprise and delight even the most seasoned cocktail aficionados.

For locals and travelers seeking to sample a slice of Rio's culinary excellence, Zazá is more than a restaurant; it's a journey. With its colorful and eclectic décor, an array of delicious options, and an atmosphere that resonates with the good vibes of this tropical paradise, Zazá remains a testament to the charm and zest of Rio's food scene. It's a space that embodies the spirit of Rio — sensational, tasteful, and always inviting.

Neighborhood: Ipanema | Website: https://linktr.ee/zazabistro

Drinks: Botecto Boa Pra?a

Just a short ten minute walk from Za?a, along the palm lined shores of Ipanema beach is our next destination, Boteco Boa Pra?a. An idyllic escape for the discerning executive looking to decompress even further after a great dinner and a long day of work. Part of the distinguished Alife-Nino group, Boteco Boa Pra?a is not just a bar—it's an experience, a confluence of urban chic and bohemian ease.

With its grandiose high ceilings and expansive outdoor space, complete with communal benches and the soft murmur of fountains, Boteco Boa Pra?a crafts an ambiance that encourages you to shed the formalities of the boardroom. It's a place where the beachfront's tranquility and the city's pulse meet, creating an oasis that's hard to resist for after-dinner drinks.

As you step into Boteco Boa Pra?a, you're greeted by a décor that tells a tale of Brazil's soulful heritage. Every nook is a celebration of Brazilian culture, from the beach sarongs draped artfully against the walls to the whimsical chandeliers crafted from beer crates. Colonial lampposts stand sentinel among the Senhor do Bonfim ribbons and trickster hats, while bottle caps and guitars add a playful note to the botanical splendor that envelops the space.

Attention to detail is the hallmark of Boteco Boa Pra?a. It's evident in the state-of-the-art draft beer system, a marvel of Ambev's innovation, boasting nine taps that promise the coldest, most refreshing draft beer to soothe your palate. The drinks menu—a vibrant showcase of caipirinhas and handcrafted cocktails—offers a symphony of flavors, each a tribute to the local zest and mixological artistry.

Here, the contemporary rustic style melds seamlessly with a cozy atmosphere, inviting open spaces that are a sanctuary in the urban milieu. Surrounded by lush trees and plants, illuminated by the soft glow of colonial lampposts, Boteco Boa Pra?a is an embodiment of Brazilianness, from its culinary offerings to the spirited windows that echo with color and life.

For the executive traveler, Boteco Boa Pra?a is more than a venue; it's a destination. A place where the vibrant spirit of Brazil is savored one sip at a time, where laughter and music mingle with the night air, and where every visit becomes a cherished entry in your travelogue. Whether you're unwinding solo or hosting an informal meeting, Boteco Boa Pra?a is a must-visit locale that captures the essence of Ipanema's beachfront bliss.

Neighborhood: Ipanema | Website: https://linktr.ee/BPipanema

Breakfast: Nusa Café Brunch e Bistr?

In the early morning bustle of Ipanema, there's a sunrise serenade for the senses waiting at Nusa Café Brunch & Bistro, affectionately known simply as "Nusa." Drawing inspiration from the tranquil isles of near Bali, Nusa Café is a sanctuary for the health-conscious epicurean.

As you step into Nusa, you're greeted by an atmosphere that radiates positivity and kindness, a reflection of the "good vibes" of its island muses. The team at Nusa, all warmth and gracious hospitality, ensures every visit is more than just dining; it's a respite, an interlude of joy.

For the business traveler looking to start their day on a harmonious note, Nusa Café offers a morning reprieve where a vibrant menu brimming with wholesome choices awaits. If you're someone who cherishes a nutrient-packed start to the day, Nusa's breakfast and brunch menus are crafted to satisfy and invigorate.

Every dish served is a visual feast, curated with the utmost attention to detail and a kaleidoscope of colors. Dishes like the lembongan—a waffle medley in flavors like avocado with boiled egg, and goat cheese with parma and arugula—reign supreme.

The dedication to dish quality and impeccable service is matched by an unwavering commitment to sustainability, from using eco-friendly packaging to championing free-range, organic eggs sourced from local producers.

It's no surprise that Nusa was lauded as the 3rd best restaurant in Rio for breakfast in the 25th edition of VEJA Rio Comer & Beber 2021/2022—an accolade akin to the "Oscar" of Rio gastronomy.

Owner, Renata Sim?o, envisioned a space where the cuisine's vitality and freshness are celebrated. Today, the café thrives, a testament to the allure of its offerings and the allure of its ambiance. Whether it's the call of a waffle, the indulgence of a Belgian chocolate cookie, or the variety of healthy smoothie options, Nusa is a place where every visit is a chance to start your day off feeling energized, right here in the heart of Rio.

Neighborhood: Ipanema | Website: https://nusacafebistro.com.br/