Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Guarulhos
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
Guarulhos shares much of its culinary landscape with the broader São Paulo state. Expect hearty flavors, comfort food, and influences from indigenous, African, and European traditions. Due to the proximity to São Paulo and being a major airport city, there is wide variety of options from all over the world.
Virado à Paulista
A hearty dish consisting of rice, tutu de feijão (mashed beans with cassava flour), sauteed kale, sausage, pork chop, fried egg, and torresmo (pork cracklings). A São Paulo staple readily found in Guarulhos.
Coxinha
A teardrop-shaped deep-fried snack filled with shredded chicken and creamy catupiry cheese. It's a very popular street food and appetizer.
Pão de Queijo
Small, baked cheese rolls made with tapioca flour, cheese, and milk. A favorite breakfast item and snack.
Feijoada
A rich and flavorful stew of black beans, various cuts of pork (including smoked and salted), beef, and sausage. Traditionally served with rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), kale, and orange slices.
Churrasco
Brazilian barbecue, featuring a variety of grilled meats, often served rodízio style (all-you-can-eat) with waiters bringing skewers of meat to the table.
Pastel
Large, deep-fried pastries filled with various savory ingredients such as cheese, ground beef, heart of palm, or chicken. Often found at street fairs and markets.
Local Tips
To fully enjoy the culinary experience in Guarulhos, consider these tips for exploring the local food scene.
Explore Local Markets
Visit the municipal market ('Mercado Municipal') for fresh produce, spices, and regional delicacies. It's a great place to sample local flavors.
Venture Beyond Chain Restaurants
Seek out family-owned restaurants and 'botecos' (small bars) for authentic Brazilian cuisine at affordable prices.
Try the Street Food
Sample the local street food, like pastéis and coxinhas, for a quick and delicious snack.
Embrace Rodízio
If you're a meat lover, don't miss the opportunity to experience a rodízio-style churrascaria. Come hungry!
Learn Basic Portuguese Phrases
Knowing a few basic Portuguese phrases will enhance your interaction with locals and make ordering food easier.
About Guarulhos
Food History
The cuisine of Guarulhos, while not having completely distinct dishes exclusive to the city, is heavily influenced by its role as a major transportation hub and its proximity to São Paulo. Immigration and migration have played a crucial role, bringing flavors from across Brazil and the world. Traditional Brazilian staples are prominent, with variations reflecting local ingredients and preferences. The nearby large cities have greatly influenced the cuisine as well.
Food Culture
Food in Guarulhos is closely tied to Brazilian culture, representing a blend of tradition, celebration, and community. Mealtimes are often social occasions, and certain dishes are associated with specific holidays or events. The city's diverse population also contributes to a vibrant and evolving food scene.
Street Fairs and Markets
Guarulhos has various street fairs ('feiras livres') where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and prepared foods. These fairs are important social hubs and offer a glimpse into the local culture.
Rodízio Culture
The 'rodízio' style of dining, particularly for churrasco and pizza, is very popular. It encourages social interaction and offers a wide variety of flavors.
Family Gatherings
Food plays a central role in family gatherings, especially on weekends and holidays. Traditional dishes are prepared and shared, reinforcing family bonds.
Cachaça and Brazilian Drinks
Cachaça, a distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice, is the base for Caipirinhas, Brazil's national cocktail. Guarulhos offers various bars and restaurants where you can enjoy this refreshing drink alongside your meal. Brazilian beer is also very popular.